Windows do more than just let light into your beautiful home or business. These ensure building safety, regulate internal temperature, and add architectural finishes to the building’s exterior. However, not all windows are the same. Windows that are equally useful in the home may not be suitable for offices, restaurants, or stores.
Choosing the right windows can also be a safety issue in areas prone to hurricanes and storms. For example, Florida’s weather is often very unpredictable. This state is prone to hurricanes, tropical storms, and high winds, so choosing the right windows is more than just aesthetics.
But the good news is that Florida residents looking to fortify their homes from the ravages of Mother Nature can take advantage of the My Safe Florida Home program, a state-sponsored initiative. This will get you funding for a free home evaluation and recommended enhancements. Through this program, Florida residents can access and utilize the services of My Safe Florida Home certified contractors who are experts in hurricane-resistant products and their installation.
Let’s differentiate between residential and commercial windows so you can make the right decision to use the best type for your property.
1. Design and purpose
Residential windows are built for comfort and style. Homeowners may want to bring in plenty of sunlight indoors, minimize noise, or simply want something aesthetically pleasing to match the architecture of their home.
In contrast, commercial windows are designed to be practical and durable. They are mainly used in high-rise buildings, retail stores, and office buildings because they need to withstand higher wind loads, etc. Most of them are made with thicker glass and stronger frames to withstand higher pressure differences.
2. Frame structure and material
Home windows are typically made of vinyl, aluminum, or fiberglass to balance energy efficiency and cost. Considering moderate usage and easy maintenance.
Commercially available frames tend to be heavier and stronger, and are made of aluminum or steel to support large pieces of glass. It can be thermally destroyed or strengthened with strength and insulation standards to comply with strict building codes.
3. Glass composition
One of the biggest differences is the glass itself. Residential glass is insulated and is considered comfortable. Double or triple glazing is usually used, and an inert gas nickel filling is used to increase energy efficiency.
Commercial glass means safety and performance. That could mean laminated or tempered glass, which protects against shatter and resembles an impact-resistant system that shares safety.
In Florida and other hurricane-prone areas, even basic properties are using impact-resistant glass technology designed for commercial buildings.
4. Energy efficiency and thermal performance
Limiting heat transfer is recognized as being comfortable for residential interior windows. Energy-saving coatings, insulating spacers and proper sealing work together to provide energy efficiency and internal temperature stability.
Long Solar Control Low-E glass coating, reflective tint, and glazing systems are designed for commercial window lighting with solid walls along the entire long edge.
5. Installation requirements
Residential window installation is generally easier and faster. The frame is inserted into a standard wall opening, and the procedure is determined by local building codes. Installing commercially available windows requires much more technical skill.
They must be connected to a structure’s curtain wall or storefront system and are designed to withstand higher wind pressures. Therefore, precision and structural alignment are extremely important.
6. Cost and longevity
Commercial windows cost more than residential windows, in part because of the materials and technology involved. Commercial windows generally last a long time and don’t need to be replaced as often.
Homeowners try to find a compromise between performance, appearance, and cost. For commercial purposes, durability is everything, followed by safety standards.
7. Why differences matter
Choosing what type of window to use can impact safety, comfort, and the overall value of your property. While installing residential windows in a commercial property may result in reduced performance, using commercial grade windows in a residential home may be considered an unnecessary cost.
Coastal cities need impact-resistant options for both residential and commercial buildings that can provide hurricane protection, energy efficiency, and noise reduction.
During a storm, choosing the right windows and taking advantage of programs like My Safe Florida Home can make a world of difference for Florida homeowners.
A home inspector will evaluate your property for weaknesses that may arise due to aging windows, doors, and roofs and provide a list of suggested improvements that comply with the latest safety and performance standards.
