What Type of Window Style Best Protects Against Storm Damage?

If you live in Massachusetts, your home is no stranger to having to hold up against harsh weather conditions. From high winds and heavy rainfalls to snow buildup and frost, your home is constantly at risk of damage due to severe weather. Your windows are one of the first lines of defense when it comes to protecting your home from the outside. Depending on the amount of frost and humidity in your area, how often you open your windows on a daily basis, the building material of your home, and other factors, there may be one style of window that can protect your home better than others. In this blog, we will discuss the best window styles for preventing storm damage and how Three Sons Window & Door can help you install them in your home.

What Factors Determine Which Window Style is Most Effective in Protecting Your Home?

Your home’s individual needs are the primary factor when it comes to choosing the best window style for storm protection. The most important aspects to consider are your geographical location and climate patterns, as well as the overall construction of your home. For example, if your home is built out of mainly wood, you may want to consider a window style that offers better moisture resistance. However, if you live in an area prone to high winds, a window style that can withstand the pressure and force of these winds may be more important.

Are Single or Double-Hung Windows Better for Storm Protection?

Single-hung windows have two sashes of glass that can open and close, while double-hung windows have both an upper and lower sash that can be opened. Regarding storm protection, single-hung windows may not provide as much defense as double-hung windows. The upper sash of a double-hung window can be closed during a storm, providing an extra barrier against strong winds and heavy rain. On the other hand, single-hung windows only have one sash that can be closed, leaving the bottom half of the window vulnerable to damage.

Casement Windows Can Protect Against Wind, Rain, Snow, & Other Severe Weather Damage

Casement windows are another popular option for storm protection. These windows have a crank that allows them to create an airtight seal when closed, keeping out strong winds and heavy rain. If there is heavy snowfall, you can still open the window a little bit for ventilation without worrying about snow buildup on the window sill because they open outwards. This can push the snow away from your home, preventing direct contact with your windows and reducing the risk of damage.

Do Storm Shutters Work Against Severe Weather?

To add an extra layer of protection against storm damage, homeowners can install storm shutters over their windows. These shutters are typically made from heavy-duty materials such as metal or thick wood and can be closed during a storm to provide extra protection against strong winds and flying debris. Some of the more durable shutters are built to withstand winds up to 200 miles per hour, making them a beneficial investment for homes that often see severe weather.

What Types of Windows Offer the Least Protection Against Storm Damage?

While all windows offer some level of protection against severe weather, there are a few types that may not be as effective in preventing storm damage. These include:

• Sliding Windows: These windows have panels that slide open and close horizontally. This design makes it difficult to create a tight seal and may leave your home vulnerable to strong winds and rain.
• Bay Windows: Although bay windows offer a private nook and a beautiful view, they are not as effective in protecting against severe weather. Since they extend outwards from the home, they are more exposed to strong winds and rain.
• Picture Windows: Picture windows do not open and close. They are meant to provide a clear view and natural light but do not offer much protection against storms. Due to their large, non-opening design, they can also be more prone to shattering.

Get a Free Quote on Storm Protection Windows in Waltham, MA & the Surrounding Towns with Three Sons Window & Door

At Three Sons Window & Door, we understand the importance of having strong, durable windows in Massachusetts’s seasons. Our window experts have years of experience installing and replacing windows, and we can work with your specific needs to find the perfect window style for protecting your home. We offer a wide variety of high-quality, durable, and energy-efficient windows that can withstand the harshest of weather conditions. To learn more about our services and request a free quote, call us at 781-899-6353 or submit an online request form!