Key Takeaways:
- Essential Protection: Impact-resistant windows and doors help stay safe during a hurricane.
- Cost Savings: Lower your insurance premiums and energy bills
- Increased Security: Protect yourself against the threat of intruders
- Increase Your Resale Value: Boost your home’s marketability and value
- Comprehensive Strategy: Combine our services with your other hurricane prep for maximum protection
- Eco-Friendly: Save energy and reduce your carbon footprint
Being proactive is crucial to protecting you and your home during a hurricane. Installing impact-resistant windows and doors is one of the most effective ways to protect your property. This investment enhances your home’s durability and provides long-term benefits, even after storm season.
The Importance of Hurricane Preparedness
Hurricanes can become devastating natural disasters, causing extensive property damage. In recent years, the frequency and intensity of these storms have increased, making it even more important for homeowners to take preventive measures.
Key Hurricane Stats:
- A study by FEMA found that 57% of Americans have not prepared a disaster supply kit, which is one of the most critical steps in hurricane preparedness
- According to the National Hurricane Survival Initiative, 58% of U.S. coastal residents are reported to have an evacuation plan in place in case of a hurricane
- According to Ready.gov, only about 35% of Americans have developed and discussed a household emergency communication plan, crucial in the event of a hurricane
- A survey by the Insurance Information Institute revealed that 40% of homeowners in coastal areas need to realize that standard homeowners’ insurance policies do not cover flood damage, a common risk associated with hurricanes.
The Cost of Inaction
Failing to prepare for hurricanes can have devastating consequences, especially financially. The average cost of hurricane damage to a home can range from tens to hundreds of thousands of dollars. Investing in impact-resistant windows and doors can help homeowners save substantial money in the long run.
The Ins and Outs of Impact-Resistant Windows and Doors
Impact-resistant windows and doors are carefully designed to withstand the high winds and flying debris caused by hurricanes.
How They Work
These specialized windows and doors consist of a shatter-resistant layer sandwiched between two panes of glass. This design allows the glass to crack upon impact while remaining intact, keeping wind and water out of your home.
Additional Benefits
While the primary purpose of these windows and doors is to protect against hurricanes, they also offer additional benefits:
- Enhanced Security: The reinforced paneling makes it more difficult for intruders to break in.
- Noise Reduction: The thick, multi-layered glass helps keep your home quiet.
- UV Protection: Many impact-resistant windows keep out harmful UV rays, protecting your furniture and flooring from the sun.
- Energy Efficiency: The increased insulation of these windows and doors may help lower your energy costs.
Financial Advantages of Being Proactive
Installing impact-resistant windows and doors is not just about immediate protection; it’s a wise, long-term financial decision.
Insurance Premium Reductions
As a Florida homeowner, staying informed about the latest laws that affect your property is crucial. One such law that has significant implications is Florida Statute 627.0629. This statute, which deals explicitly with residential property insurance, mandates that insurance companies provide discounts, credits, or other rate differentials to homeowners who take steps to protect their homes against windstorm damage.
Increased Home Value
Homes with impact-resistant windows and doors typically have higher resale values. Potential buyers appreciate the added protection and are often willing to invest in a home with these safety features.
Lower Energy Costs
These innovative windows and doors provide enhanced insulation, lowering heating and cooling costs. Over time, the money you save on energy can help cover the initial installation costs.
The Hurricane Safety Program: Making Protection Accessible
The Hurricane Safety Program recognizes the importance of protecting your home. Because of this, financing options are available to help homeowners upgrade their homes with impact-resistant windows and doors.
Key Features of the Program
- No Down Payment: The program helps ease any financial burden by offering zero down payment.
- No Credit Requirements: No credit or income is required, making it accessible to more homeowners.
- Insurance Premium Savings: The program uses insurance discounts to help cover the cost of upgrades. According to Florida Statute Chapter 627 Section 0629, your home insurance provider must provide discounts, credits, and rate reductions to homeowners who meet these safety standards.
How To Get Started
- Assess Your Eligibility: Call or text “Safety” to (954) 787-1797 or visit hurricanesafetyprogram.org to see if you are eligible for the Hurricane Safety Program. The program offers full funding for roof and window upgrades.
- Participate in the HSP: Once enrolled, the Hurricane Safety Program will upgrade your property to meet the new hurricane safety standards, qualifying you for home insurance discounts.
- Application Process: Homeowners in designated regions with roofs or windows over ten years old may be eligible for the program. The simple application process is offered on a first-come, first-served basis.
Next Steps: Your Roadmap to Safety
- Permit Submission: To upgrade your home’s safety, we must first handle all the necessary paperwork to obtain a permit. This process can vary depending on your city’s regulations and typically takes 2-4 weeks for approval. You can feel confident that all documentation is accurately completed.
- Permit Approval: Once submitted, your permit will be reviewed to ensure it meets local building codes and safety standards. This program complies with the latest regulations and guidelines, ensuring your home can withstand the worst storms.
- Installation: Once the permit is approved, our expert installation team can get to work. To ensure smooth and efficient installation, we require the work area to be clear. For roofing projects, please clear the patio area. For window installations, please make sure that the necessary rooms are accessible.
- 4-Point and Wind Mitigation: After installation is complete, our certified inspectors will conduct 4-point and wind mitigation inspections. These are crucial for validating that your home upgrades qualify you for discounts on your home insurance premiums.
- Lower Your Home Insurance Now that the upgrades are done and the inspections are complete, you can start enjoying the benefits of a safer home. Our insurance agent partners will review your policy and work to lower your premiums to an amount that now reflects your upgraded home.
How Does Installation Work?
This job is best left to our professionals. Here’s what you can expect during the installment process:
- Assessment: We will visit your property to assess and measure all openings.
- Customization: We order your custom-made windows and doors, which may take 6-8 weeks to manufacture.
- Removal: Old windows and doors are carefully removed.
- Installation: New impact-resistant products are installed and properly sealed.
- Inspection: A final inspection ensures everything is installed and works properly based on county regulations and safety protocols.
- Regular Cleaning: Regularly clean your windows and doors with mild soap and water. Avoid abrasive cleaners, which could damage the protective coating.
Beyond Windows and Doors: Comprehensive Hurricane Protection
While impact-resistant windows and doors are essential, they are only part of a larger hurricane preparedness strategy.
Take Additional Protective Measures:
- Roof Reinforcement: Ensure your roof is in good condition, and consider hurricane straps for added security.
- Landscaping: Trim trees and remove potential projectiles from your yard.
- Emergency Kit: Create a preparedness kit with essentials like water, non-perishable food, and first-aid supplies.
Emerging Technologies
Researchers are always working to develop more resilient materials and stronger designs to enhance the durability of impact-resistant windows and doors.
Policy Changes
Many coastal regions are updating building codes to require impact-resistant features in new construction and major renovations.
Conclusion: A Wise Investment in Safety and Security
Installing impact-resistant windows and doors is more than just a precautionary measure; it’s a wise investment in your home’s safety, value, and long-term sustainability. With programs like the Hurricane Safety Program, there’s never been a better time to take proactive steps to protect your home against hurricanes.
Act now to invest in peace of mind, save money, and keep your loved ones safe. Don’t wait until the hurricane warning to think about protection. Let’s proactively protect your home. Connect with us today by calling or texting (+1) 786-952-4136.
