If you live in Arizona, you undoubtedly know how severe the weather can get, especially during monsoon season when it brings heavy rain and strong winds. Powerful monsoons can send twigs, lawn furniture, and other debris blowing through your yard, putting your home's windows at risk from flying objects. 

During dust storms, the glass may become covered in dirt and dust, reducing visibility. This is why it's so important to have windows installed that are specially designed for severe weather conditions.

What Makes Arizona Storms Tough on Glass?

The monsoon season in Arizona is notoriously rough on house windows. The glass can become severely damaged by branches, pebbles, and other debris carried by strong gusts of wind. 

Haboobs, or dust storms, often blow sand and tiny particles against windows, slowly chipping away at their surfaces. 

Plus, the glass is more likely to break when subjected to sudden changes in temperature during storms because of the stress it undergoes during fast expansion and contraction. 

Because of their weaker single-pane glass, old seals, and worn frames, older windows are more likely to break when compared to newer windows that are built with stronger materials and modern safety features.

Tempered vs. Laminated Glass: What's the Difference?

When it comes to updating your home with windows suited for Arizona weather, you'll want to choose between tempered or laminated glass, or your home may need a mixture of both. 

Tempered glass goes through a special heat-treating process that makes it much stronger than ordinary glass. If it does break, it won't shatter into sharp shards like normal glass does. It'll break into small, rounded pieces that reduce the risk of injury. 

Laminated glass doesn't go through a heat-treating process. Instead, it consists of two panes of glass bonded together with a durable plastic interlayer. If a rock strikes the glass during a storm, it may crack, but it won't shatter apart because the interlayer holds the broken pieces together.

Both types of glass are also highly preferred by Arizona homeowners because they help reduce break-ins, UV exposure, and outside noise. The best type for your home depends on its location, exposure to storms, and building requirements.

Signs Your Windows May Need an Upgrade

Most windows need replacement once every 15 to 30 years. You can watch for certain signs to know when your home is ready for an upgrade:

  • Visible chips or cracks: Small damage weakens the glass and increases the chance of breakage.
  • Older single-pane windows: Provide less insulation and protection than modern window designs.
  • Windows that rattle during wind: Often indicate loose frames or worn window components.
  • Drafts around frames: Air leaks reduce comfort and increase heating and cooling costs.
  • Water leaks after storms: Moisture can damage walls, flooring, and surrounding materials over time.
  • Rising energy bills due to poor insulation: Inefficient windows allow conditioned air to escape easily.

Getting your windows inspected each year before monsoon season is the best way to stay ahead of problems. 

Protect Your Home with Professional Glass Solutions

No matter the type of glass you choose, tempered or laminated, you need to have the windows installed by a professional. DIY installations often lead to common mistakes like improper sizing and poor sealing. 

Raben Glass offers expert services for window installation all throughout Arizona. We're very familiar with the state's extreme weather conditions and how powerful monsoons can affect your home's comfort, security, and energy performance.

Prepare your home before the next Arizona storm. Contact Raben Glass today for expert guidance on impact-resistant window replacement and professional glass installation tailored to Arizona's unique climate.