What To Consider When Shopping for Weather Resistant Windows

When it comes time to replace your windows or if you’re in the market for an entirely new redesign of your home, office or building, you’ll want to take this opportunity to make sure your windows are the best for your environment so that it doesn’t cost you more money or damage later.

There are a handful of common mistakes that people make when purchasing their new windows that you’ll want to avoid, but what about when it comes to your specific climate? Everyone’s climate varies, and not all windows are made the same, so it’s important to make the right choice before you buy and install.

Here are some things you should keep in mind before you purchase your next set of windows:

Weather

Just this year, we’ve had a record number of hurricanes and tropical storms, each greatly impacting every community they came across. Weather is no joke, and while no window is completely hurricane-proof, you can still do the best you can to protect your windows and home. 

Thermally broken windows not only are sealed completely and have a wet-glaze system that makes it impossible for moisture to seep through, but Portella’s steel windows are made from 100% recycled and extremely durable steel. 

You can feel a bit more relaxed when the next big storm hits, while also of course taking the necessary precautions. In fact, Portella windows are currently in the process of hurricane impact certification testing!

Also, for those of you in areas with lots of rain or frequent snow,  you’ll still want to make sure that you get a window that has  a wet-glaze system as well to prevent any moisture from penetrating your windows and leaking into your house. 

Temperature

Whether hot or cold, depending on the time of year, you’ll want to make sure you have the most comfortable temperature possible inside your home. For your home to work efficiently, it’s important that you make sure your home is properly insulated, or else your cooling and heating system will be working overtime. 

Did you know that windows alone cause at least 10-25% of temperature loss in standard homes? Thermally broken windows are tightly sealed to make sure you lose as little as possible, which helps cut down on energy costs.

If you live in a hotter climate, you’ll want to know the term “SHGC”which stands for “Solar Heat Gain Coefficient”. For really hot places, you’ll want your SHGC level to be at least.40 or less and one way to do that is to use windows that maximize natural light while also can withstand intense heat. One of the best options for this is to opt for a low emissivity glass window. 

The best option for those that live in areas with extreme temperatures is thermally broken windows because they prevent the air from seeping out, and will not only save you money, but keep your home at the right temperature for you, among their many benefits.

Thermally broken metal windows use a high performance insulator that separates two metal halves that creates a vacuum between the two different panes, therefore creating insulating material. They have the capacity to handle up to 200°C, meaning they are perfect for extremely hot weather.  

What also helps with decreasing your cooling costs is multi-pane windows. The various gasses used between the glass panes allow for better insulation and saves a lot of energy, but also help alleviate outside noise which is great if you live in the city or a noisy area.

Where You Live

If you have any water-front property, you’ve probably encountered corrosion on your windows at one point or another. It is a common occurrence, but it doesn’t have to happen. 

Thermally broken windows have a thermally bonded zinc-galvanizing corrosion resistant coating that keeps your windows safe from any corrosion that may occur.

Humid locations will also benefit from the multi-point locking systems of thermally broken windows because they help prevent moisture from seeping through their windows.

 Even in cold conditions, snow can cause moisture to creep into your home, so you’ll also want to consider a window that for sure has a multi-point locking system. The locking system also helps keep your home safe and secure as well.

If you live in a place that is always generally sunny and hot, you may want to consider a window that has a solar control film. Solar control films help  cut down on energy costs and helps keep your house cool. In addition, it helps keep your furniture and carpet from fading due to the sunlight!

Let Us Help

The most important thing to consider when you’re in the market is where you live, what weather you have and how you want these windows to work for you. Portella windows can make that happen by delivering durability and suitability for even the most demanding climates. 

Our Project Managers will work directly with you to plan your next design for your office, business or home.  Please reach out to us for a free quote or to find out more about us.