Ashley Cusack of Esslinger-Wooten-Maxwell, Inc. Realtors in Miami said more and more of her clients are looking for homes with impact-resistant windows and doors because of the peace of mind they provide during the hurricane season, as well as the added benefits of security and insurance reductions.

"I have seen it time and time again that upgrading to impact-resistant windows is one of the best home improvement projects a homeowner can undertake," said Cusack. "They get 24/7 protection from hurricanes and intruders, as well as substantial insurance reductions. Some homeowners have seen their insurance rates drop by as much as 30-45%. This adds tremendous value at resale."

Other real estate experts agree. According to a recent report published by the National Association of Realtors, mid-range and upscale window replacements offer some of the highest returns for the money – even more than a major kitchen, master suite or family room remodel.

PGT® is the manufacturer of WinGuard®, the nation’s leading brand of impact-resistant windows and doors. PGT pioneered the impact-resistant category and helped strengthen building codes after the devastation of hurricane Andrew.

Dave Olmstead, senior public affairs and code compliance specialist at PGT, said insurance companies are required by the state of Florida to provide a discount on premiums to homeowners who mitigate against hurricanes. Additional information can be found on the website of the Office of Insurance Regulation: http://www.floir.com/Hurricanes/HurricaneLossMitigation.aspx .

In addition to the insurance savings, Olmstead says homeowners with impact-resistant windows and doors should also see energy savings. Impact windows and doors block up to 99% of UV rays, resulting in reduced solar heat gain which translates into lower cooling costs.

All of the factors that contribute to hurricane protection and energy efficiency contribute to the sound-blocking qualities of impact-resistant windows. The laminated glass in PGT’s WinGuard windows and doors absorbs sound rather than transmitting it. In fact, the same type of glass is often used in airports and recording studios.

About PGT:

PGT® pioneered the U.S. impact-resistant window and door industry and today is the nation’s leading manufacturer and supplier of residential impact-resistant windows and doors. Founded in 1980, the company employs approximately 1,500 at its manufacturing, glass laminating and tempering plants in Florida and North Carolina. Utilizing the latest designs and technology, PGT products are ideal for new construction and replacement projects serving the residential, commercial, high-rise and institutional markets. PGT’s product line includes PGT® Aluminum and Vinyl Windows and Doors; WinGuard® Impact-Resistant Windows and Doors; PGT® Architectural Systems; and Eze-Breeze® Sliding Panels. PGT Industries is a wholly owned subsidiary of PGT, Inc. (NASDAQ: PGTI). For additional information, or to find a distributor near you, visit pgtindustries.com or call 800-284-6019.

Courtesy: Home Improvement News and Information Center