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Picture windows last about 20 to 50 years, depending on the material, your location, and how well you maintain the windows over the years. Materials like vinyl and aluminum may not last as long, while fiberglass can last many years. Wood will last decades if you keep up with maintenance. Homes in areas with harsh weather throughout the year may cause windows to have shorter lifespans.

While plywood will keep winds and debris from shattering your windows from the outside, window film can help protect your windows from the inside. Window film can keep a window from shattering. If your windows break, the film can hold the shards of glass in place, reducing the risk of cuts.

While you may sometimes see window film marketed as "hurricane window film," note that it doesn't provide sufficient hurricane protection on its own. It's no substitute for plywood, storm windows, or hurricane shutters.

Glass block windows are energy-efficient because they are much thicker than traditional glass panes, making them better insulators. They are sealed airtight, which prevents drafts and stops warm or cool air from escaping, helping to save money on heating and cooling bills. Unlike traditional windows that can be opened and closed, sealed glass block windows eliminate the potential for air leaks. For proven efficiency, look for options that are Energy Star rated. The cost for energy-efficient glass block windows is typically around $400 per window, which may be higher than standard windows.

On average, bay windows are three times as expensive as a standard double-hung window, so up-front cost is a major drawback. They also let in more natural light than most other types of windows, which can be a positive thing, but it can also lead to more aggressive fading and UV damage to furniture and flooring. Larger windows allow for more heat transfer, so bay windows tend to be less energy-efficient due to their size. Finally, window treatments for bay windows can be more challenging to find, and they’re more expensive than those you’d place over standard-sized windows.