Let The Outside In

Choosing the right window for your home is important no matter where you live, not only from a safety standpoint, but also for energy conservation and utility costs. For Florida homes, hurricane-resistance and leak prevention are top priorities when it comes to selecting windows, and for good reason. But there are other environmental considerations to evaluate as well. We talked with Bryan Hyla, president of luxury home builder APEX Projects, LLC, to learn more about how the gorgeous Florida sunshine is something else to bear in mind when choosing windows.

How the Sun Affects Window Choice “Most of our clients want large, expansive, often floor-to-ceiling windows,” Bryan says. “With the amount of sunshine Florida gets, heat transfer becomes a concern when you have that much glass.” The more windows, the more heat is transferred into the house―and the more heat, the more energy is used to cool rooms.

There’s also the issue of UVA and UVB rays, which penetrate glass unless blocked. These rays comprise about 40% of the sun’s cumulative effect, making them harmful to humans, furniture and artwork.

Mitigating Heat Transfer and UVA/UVB As Bryan explains, there are only a handful of window manufacturers whose products have the technology capable of handling and taming the Florida sunshine. While it’s impossible to completely block all heat transfer, high-quality windows can mitigate a significant percentage by using special glass coatings and a sash and frame that contains a thermal break. In the simplest terms, a thermal break stops conditions outside from getting inside the home. It also helps prevent condensation that can develop on windows in the humid Florida climate.

APEX’s preferred window supplier is Brombal USA. “Brombal is the one manufacturer that has done it right, in my opinion,” says Bryan. “It is a company out of Italy, and its triple-glazed window design with thermal break is the best in the business.” The triple glazing is important because it has an extra two panes of glass on which to apply various protective coatings. It also offers increased hurricane-impact resistance, and helps dampen exterior noise.

With thermal break technology and specialized coatings providing adequate sun protection for both inhabitants and furnishings, a homeowner may find little need for awnings, shades or shutters.

Resources:

Bryan Hyla APEX Projects 57 Benson Road Ridgefield, CT 06877 203.943.4331 apexpps.com

Brombal USA brombalusa.com