Colorado is one of the more hail-active states in the US. According to the Colorado Climate Center, during the summertime storms, hailstones can be up to 2 inches in diameter and can travel ~80 miles per hour, and Colorado Springs is in that direct path. For homeowners needing window replacement in Colorado Springs, choosing between laminated and tempered glass is an important decision when considering which glass type will better withstand storms.
How Hail Actually Damages Windows
Windows can withstand hail impacts, but the damage can be internal and difficult to see. Hail can damage the seals, causing fogging and reduced efficiency before the seals even begin to crack. Hail damage to properties in Colorado is second only to hail damage in Texas, and every year, Colorado residents can expect to pay ~$1,987 per 100 residents as a result of the extensive storm damage. For that reason, the type of glass used should be selected carefully.
Tempered Glass: Strong, But It Still Breaks
Tempered glass is heat-treated and four times stronger than standard glass. Tempered glass also produces smaller pieces when it fractures, which is safer than standard glass, but still results in a broken window. In severe hail, tempered glass can shatter, leaving the home vulnerable to the elements and debris.
For homeowners living in Colorado Springs looking into window replacements on a tighter budget, tempered glass is a great step up from standard glass, especially on windows that are not directly exposed. It is worth noting, however, that tempered glass cannot withstand severe storms.
Laminated Glass: Built to Hold
Laminated glass actually contains two sheets of glass with a strong adhesive polyvinyl butyral (PVB) interlayer sandwiched between them. This interlayer, even when cracked, holds the glass together, keeping water and debris out and maintaining the glass’s structural integrity.
Laminated glass is widely recommended for window replacement in the Colorado Springs area, as it is by far the strongest option in those regions with high hail activity. It also reduces UV radiation by up to 99% and has significantly better thermal insulation values than tempered glass. It is also heavier and more expensive than tempered glass; however, the significant long-term savings from reduced storm repairs will outweigh the additional cost and weight in most instances.
Which Glass Type is Strongest Against Colorado Hail?
Colorado’s famous hailstorms are more frequent and intense in June. The initial impact may be more damaging with tempered glass, but laminated glass is the stronger performer as it maintains a seal after the primary defense is broken.
When it comes to window replacement in Colorado Springs, there are extra factors to consider.
- Impact Certification: Glass manufactured to withstand impact from high-velocity impacts is very different from standard glass.
- Multi-Pane Design: Windows with more panes are more rigid and better able to withstand a load.
- Frame Quality: The frame’s strength is essential. A deteriorating or poorly anchored frame will render an otherwise high-quality glass pane useless.
Making the Right Choice Before Hail Season
The hail season in Colorado Springs typically runs from May to September, so the time to prepare is short. Whether you are only replacing a cracked window or replacing windows throughout your home in Colorado Springs, knowing the differences between types of glass will give you a strong position when making a decision. For the best information about window replacement in Colorado, speak to a glass professional before making the decision on your own.