Windows for Coastal Living: Points to Consider
Coastal regions are especially susceptible to a nasty slew of storms. On the Gulf Coast and in the Southeast, Hurricanes are a perpetual worry. On the West Coast, wind storms are common, and even the occasional tidal wave has been known to occur. In Nor’easters are hazards, unsurprisingly, in the Northeast. All of these storms present significant hazards to your precious windows.
Additionally, coastal air is notoriously salty. Though invigorating, this briny quality is bad news for your windows, as it is particularly corrosive and prematurely age your windows.
Windows for Coastal Living: Materials and Styles
When choosing materials for your coastal windows, it’s important to know a few important details. First of all, storm windows are key. As you might have cleverly guessed, storm windows offer an extra barrier against potential storms. Storm windows are installed over the exterior or interior of your pre-existing windows, offering an extra barrier against high-impact storms like hurricanes. Additionally, storm windows will act as a second seal, preventing any unwanted moisture from trickling inside. Finally, though storm windows come in a variety of materials, it’s best to purchase storm windows made out of either vinyl or aluminum. Wood storm windows require too much maintenance and are not likely to resist moist ocean air.
Unfortunately, many homeowners are reluctant to install storm windows, citing storm windows’ awkward bulkiness as a deterrent. Luckily, newer storm windows are much more stylish than their predecessors, so you won’t have to worry about sacrificing style for safety.
If you live in a particularly extreme coastal environment, storm windows might not be enough. Storm shutters - steel or aluminum shutters fitted over your windows - offer more protection than storm windows and might be an option for homeowners living in particularly dangerous coastal zones.
Besides storm windows, it’s also important to buy impact-resistant glass for your windows. This extra measure is often required in some coastal areas, as it will better prepare your windows for storms and inclement weather.
Windows for Coastal Living: Style
Coastal living isn’t all drudgery, of course; while outfitting your home to withstand the toughest storms, add some fun and creativity to the project. Incorporate large window spaces that will allow ample views of the ocean. Install fashionable shutters on either sides of your window to promote ventilation. In other words, don’t be afraid to create coastal windows that are beautiful, as well as safe. After all, people move to the coast to soak in the sun and surf, and large, airy windows will make that a possibility.