Accordion Shutters vs. Impact Windows

Ease Of Installation

• Accordion shutters fit directly over your existing windows. To put these protectors in place, installers must install a track running down the sides or across the top and bottom of each window. Impact windows, on the other hand, completely replace existing windows. To install these windows into place, homeowners must completely remove the existing windows and put these impact-resistant ones in their place, which makes installation a bit more taxing.

Ever-Ready

• Impact windows provide the advantage of being ever-ready to stand up to a storm. While closing accordion shutters is as simple as pulling the shutters across or down over the windows, this action is required to protect them. For individuals who live at a distance from the property they are trying to protect, impact windows may prove a better choice as, should a storm come up unexpectedly, the windows are instantly ready to handle the assault.

Affordability

• Impact windows are made of shatter-resistant glass attached to a durable frame. These windows often feature several layers of glass instead of the traditional single pane, and each layer is coated with a protective membrane that keeps the window from shattering. Because this technology is pricey to produce, these windows are often also highly expensive. Generally accordion shutters cost less than impact windows, making them the ideal choice for an individual looking to protect his home while staying within his budget.

Energy Efficiency

• When closed, accordion shutters can substantially improve climate control within the home, as their reflective surfaces allow light to bounce off, keeping the home interior cooler. Because, however, these shutters are commonly only closed when a storm is approaching, this energy efficiency benefit is negligible.

View Blocking

• Accordion shutters keep the weather out, but they also block the view that homeowners would otherwise have of the outdoors. Because impact windows require no covering during a storm, homeowners with these windows installed will retain full view of the outside throughout the weather event.