Get matched with top window pros in Bolton, NC

Impact windows are a type of window made with impact-resistant glass, designed specifically for hurricanes. The glass, treated with ethylene-vinyl, can withstand winds up to 200 mph, as well as flying debris. Brands sometimes test their impact windows with large missile impact tests.

Impact windows may be required in some places. For instance, the Florida Building Code requires homes to have impact-resistant windows if they live within a mile of the coast where wind speeds can reach 110 mph or more.

Look for stickers at the top or inside of the frame, like in the tracks when the window is open. Some brands also stamp their name onto the frame itself or place it between the panes of glass, although this is less common. If you can’t find the info on the window itself, consider asking your neighbors or HOA.

If your double-glazed windows are letting in a lot of noise, it might be because of improper installation. You may need to apply an acoustic caulk around the window to close any gaps or hire a window installation expert to fix the windows. Double-glazed windows are typically more effective at reducing noise when they have thicker glass panels or have a gas filling, like argon or krypton, between the two glass panels.

Bow windows need support because they are large and extend out from the exterior wall of the home. Bow windows may extend 1 foot to several feet from the outside of the home, so you’ll need to provide additional support to handle this weight. A window contractor will be able to provide the proper amount of support for your new bow window.