Do Impact Windows Increase Home Value & Are They Worth It? 

Jump to: 

• What Are Impact Windows?
• Do Impact Windows Increase Value?
• How Much Do Hurricane Windows Cost? 
• Other Benefits
• Related Questions  

Tree branches flying by in the wind, heavy rain barreling down on the roof, and flooding all over — all are signs of hurricane season, and they all can result in significant damage to your home. Does your house have impact windows to help protect it from these storms? And will this hurricane-resistant feature pay off when it comes time to sell? Find out more.  

What Are Impact Windows? 

Impact windows, sometimes referred to as hurricane windows, are specially designed windows that are meant to withstand the impact of flying objects from strong winds. They have reinforced frames and multi-layered glass for added protection, but they are not invincible to the forces of Mother Nature. If the glass breaks, impact windows are designed to still protect from the elements. They also break in a way that reduces the number of sharp edges, so they are less dangerous than traditional broken glass windows.  

Do Impact Windows Increase Home Value? 

Typically, impact windows increase home value to some degree. In general, new windows increase home value, so impact windows are not much different. How much impact windows increase home value will depend on a variety of factors like the location of the home, the state of the previous windows, and the cost of installation. Obviously, the value of impact windows is higher in areas where hurricanes occur more often such as in South Florida or Louisiana.

In 2023 in the South Atlantic, the average resale value of new windows is $14,362 for vinyl windows and $14,682 for wood ones. This resale value equates to homeowners recouping 71.9% and 60.6% of the cost respectively.¹ While these numbers are not specific to impact windows, they do give a better idea of the potential return.  

If the previous windows were damaged or older, impact windows add more value. Some buyers will also see more value in impact windows regardless of the actual monetary value.    

How Much Do Hurricane Windows Cost? 

Whether or not impact windows are worth it will depend largely on their cost. The cost of these windows does tend to be higher than other types of windows so this number can eat into the return. In general, impact window pricing can range from $80 to $400 per window. If you need several windows, the final hurricane window cost can be thousands of dollars. If you are looking to reduce the cost of installation, be sure to consider different materials and get a few quotes.   

Other Benefits of Hurricane Windows 

Along with hurricane windows adding value to a home, other benefits of impact windows include: 

• Decreasing the cost of homeowners insurance  
• Helping to protect the home and anyone inside  
• Decreasing the amount of storm damage and subsequent cost of repairs  
• Improving a home’s energy efficiency  
• Reducing outside noise 
• Appealing to potential buyers  

The combination of all these factors may make installing impact windows worth it if the resale value alone doesn’t seem like enough.  

While impact windows increase home value, they may not be the best way to boost your asking price. Before you start chasing down contractors for quotes to get your house ready to sell, remember every home is different.  

At Curbio, we can help you determine what pre-sale updates make the most sense for your property and will yield the best return when you go to sell. Whether you want new windows or an updated kitchen, you also do not have to pay anything upfront. If you already have a Realtor, talk to them about partnering with us. If not, we may be able to match you with one of our partner real estate agents in your area. Contact us today to get started.  

Sources: 

1. Remodeling Magazine (2023). Regional Data- South Atlantic 
2. Forbes (2023). How Much Do Hurricane Windows Cost?  
3. Consumer Reports (2016). 8 Ways to Boost Your Home Value 
4. Remodeling Magazine (2023). National Data