Buying impact windows is a smart move, whether you need them to protect your home during a hurricane or because you want to ensure you won't have to deal with broken glass if an errant baseball flies through the window from the field behind your house. The windows aren't all equal, of course—you'll be able to find some with features that may be more helpful to you than others. You do want to ensure the windows you get meet some standards, however.

Are They Dual-Pane?

Just because the windows are impact-resistant doesn't mean you can't have other features. Dual-pane or double-glazed windows offer the same insulating and noise-dampening features as regular dual-pane windows, only with an outer impact-resistant pane, too. If you can find these and are able to afford the cost of replacing all your windows with them, this is a great choice. And your home won't look any different from houses that have plain dual-pane windows.

What Are the Warranty Terms?

You're going to find a range of warranty terms that will change from seller to seller. Some companies offer very good lifetime or near-lifetime warranties on their windows while others offer only a year or two. You've got to consider what the windows might face that you'd expect to shorten their life span, such as being in an area with strong winds that could constantly fling debris at the window. Even if the window doesn't break, its frame is going to look worse for wear after a while. Would a warranty of a year or two be enough for you then?

Do They Need and Have Approval for Local Use?

Impact windows are bought for two reasons. One is that you want them, and the other is that you are required to have them. In areas with hurricanes, for example, cities and counties may require buildings, including houses, to have impact-resistant windows that meet certain standards. If you're in one of these areas, you have to be sure the windows you buy will hold up to whatever weather phenomenon spurred the governments there to require the windows in the first place. You will also need to ensure that the windows meet any standards set forth by law.

Impact windows are available in many styles and shapes, so finding something that you can use should not be a problem. Check with a few sellers and see who has the best deal on windows and installation.