So many questions, we have answers
What are hurricane windows?
Hurricane windows also called impact windows are specially engineered window systems designed to protect homes in severe wind and storm conditions. Instead of ordinary single pane or basic insulated glass they use a special laminated glass layer, which is two or more sheets of glass bonded together with a clear and very strong interlayer. When debris hits the window the glass may crack but it stays bonded so the opening remains sealed.
These windows are tested and certified to resist high wind pressure and flying debris, even after the glass is broken! This is important because once wind enters a home during a hurricane it can pressurize the interior and cause major structural damage including roof lift.
Beyond storm protection hurricane windows can help with energy efficiency, noise reduction, and security. Because the laminated glass is so strong it is hard for intruders to penetrate to enter your home. Quality hurricane windows are also made with insulated glass that blocks heat and noise.
In short hurricane windows are a performance product that keeps the outside forces outside even when weather is at its worst.
No!!! Hurricane windows are designed to resist high winds and flying storm debris. They are made with laminated glass that holds together when struck so the home stays sealed and protected. While they are much stronger than standard glass they are not rated or tested to stop bullets and should not be considered bullet proof.
If bullet resistance is important for a specific project there are separate products designed and tested for that purpose. However for protecting homes during hurricanes properly rated impact windows provide the performance homeowners need in Florida.
Are hurricane windows worth it?
Yes, for most homeowners in Florida, hurricane-rated (impact) windows represent a strong investment. Here’s how they deliver value:
✅ Benefits
- Storm protection: They resist high winds and flying debris keeping your home sealed and intact during hurricanes.
- Energy efficiency: Laminated insulated glass helps reduce heat gain, UV exposure, and can lower cooling costs.
- Sound reduction: The laminated glass also reduces outside noise, enhancing comfort.
- Increased home value: Homes with proper storm-rated windows often appraise higher and sell quicker in Florida’s market.
- Insurance and peace of mind: Some insurance companies offer discounts for homes with impact windows and you avoid the hassle of installing shutters or boarding up.
- Long term durability: These windows are built to last in harsh coastal conditions (salt air, wind, sun) because they’re designed for severe environments.
⚠️ Things to consider
- Up-front cost: They cost more than standard windows and require proper installation to perform as intended.
- Installation quality matters: If installed poorly, you may not get full benefit and you risk failure during a storm.
- Not all zones require them: Depending on your county or zone, they may not be strictly required — but that doesn’t mean they aren’t worthwhile.
- Product and feature selection: Low-end impact windows may cut short on performance; so quality, certification, hardware, and value matter.
🎯 Bottom line
If you live in Florida — especially in a coastal or wind zone — hurricane windows are very much worth it. They protect your home and family, improve comfort and energy efficiency, and increase resale value. If cost is a concern, you can review your budget and choose the best product with the strongest installation you can afford — because the minimum won’t always deliver the full benefit.
Who Makes the Best Hurricane Windows?
When it comes to hurricane windows in Florida, two manufacturers consistently stand out: PGT Innovations and Eastern Architectural Windows & Doors (EAS). That said, the “best” performance comes from the combination of high-quality product and a professional installation.
Why PGT is a top choice
PGT Innovations is a nationally recognized manufacturer with decades of experience in storm-resistant windows and doors. They are local to Florida, based in Sarasota, and their impact-rated products are tested to Florida’s stringent HVHZ requirements and they offer many premium features: strong aluminum-reinforced frames, laminated glazing, multiple test ratings, expansive product lines, and coastal-grade finishes.
Why EAS (Eastern Architectural) stands out
Eastern Architectural Windows & Doors designs heavy-duty vinyl systems specifically for high-performance residential and commercial use. Their 7000 Series sliding glass doors and 176 Series windows are engineered for elevated wind loads and rigorous Florida-impact applications. Their systems provide exceptional durability, and structural strength for high wind zones.
Why product alone is not enough
Even the best hurricane window system won’t perform as intended if the installation is subpar. Some key installation risks:
- Incorrect bucking or support around the frame may allow wind loads to bypass the window and compromise the home’s envelope.
- Inadequate sealing or anchoring may allow water infiltration or wind pressure inside the assembly.
- Mixed or untrained crews may skip manufacturer-specified sealants, fasteners, or sequence of work.
- Poor workmanship can void warranties and reduce the system’s tested performance.
What to ask?
- “Are you certified by the manufacturer (PGT or EAS) to install this system?”
- “Do you install the bucking/new support material as recommended by the Florida Building Code and the manufacturer?”
- “Can you show me photos from recent installations of this exact system in homes like mine?”
- “How do you ensure your crew follows the manufacturer installation instructions step-by-step?”
- “Does your warranty cover both the product and the installation workmanship?”
Summary
If you want the best hurricane windows, aim for a top manufacturer like PGT Innovations, or Eastern Architectural Windows & Doors — then verify the installation is being handled professionally, with trained in-house crews, proper support and seal, and full supervision. The product you choose matters greatly, but installation determines whether you’ll truly have the performance you paid for.
Why are hurricane windows so expensive?
Hurricane (impact-rated) windows cost more than standard windows because they are engineered, manufactured, and installed to withstand extreme wind loads, flying debris, and severe weather conditions. Here are key factors that drive the higher price:
- Stronger materials: The frames and sashes are built with reinforced aluminum or hybrid materials to withstand high winds. The glass is laminated (two or more panes bonded with an interlayer) instead of regular single or double glazing.
- Thicker & heavier glazing: The laminated glass is thicker, heavier, and more complex to produce. The manufacturing tolerances are tighter, and manufacturing rejects are higher, which increases cost.
- Testing & certification: Impact-rated windows must undergo rigorous testing to meet standards (such as for wind-borne debris and cyclic pressure). That adds engineering, documentation, and certification cost.
- Precision manufacturing: The components must meet stringent quality controls so that the frame and glass perform as a system. Higher quality hardware, seals, and fasteners add to cost.
- Installation requirements: Proper installation for impact windows often requires additional structural work (like replacing or upgrading bucking, anchoring, flashing, sealants) and takes more time/labor. Skilled installers and supervision cost more.
- Regional code and durability demands: In Florida and other hurricane-prone areas, impact windows must meet tougher building code demands, resist corrosion in coastal environments, handle salt air and high UV exposure. The products must last longer in harsh service conditions so they are built tougher.
Bottom line: The added cost reflects durability, protection, and long-term value. While the initial investment is higher, the payoff comes in reduced risk of storm damage, lower insurance premiums, increased home value, and less worry when severe weather strikes.
How much do hurricane impact windows cost?
Every home and every opening is different so there is no single price that fits all. Instead we focus on the key factors that influence the total investment. Things like window size custom shapes glass strength impact ratings installation difficulty and structural requirements all play a major role.
While we do smaller projects, in Southwest Florida most full home window replacement projects average around $25,000 twenty five thousand dollars. Larger homes and projects with oversized sliders additional structural work or premium energy performance can be higher.
What drives cost
• Larger and custom sized windows or multi panel sliders
• Laminated and insulated glass for impact protection and energy efficiency
• Stronger frames designed for higher wind zones
• Installation that includes removal of existing windows proper bucking and required code upgrades
• Second story or difficult access that requires more labor and time
• Warranty coverage and after installation service
The most important thing to remember is that hurricane windows are a performance product. Choosing the right window is only half of the equation. Proper installation ensures the system works as intended when weather becomes severe. A high quality impact window installed poorly will not protect your home. A professional installation done correctly with the right structural support delivers the value you are paying for.
Schedule to get a free expert evaluation of your home and a detailed quote today so you know exactly what your project will cost. We are happy to provide you with a quote that is good for a full year.
When comparing aluminum and vinyl windows, the key differences lie in strength, durability, thermal efficiency, and warranties:
Aluminum Windows:
Strength: Aluminum is undeniably strong, making it ideal for some applications like high rise or larger window spans and offering great structural support.
Thermal Efficiency: However, aluminum is a poor insulator, which means it tends to conduct heat and cold more easily. This can result in higher energy bills and less comfort inside your home.
Maintenance: Aluminum windows require some regular maintenance to keep them in top shape. When maintained properly they can provide a great service life. It is important to keep all rollers and springs properly lubed and operate them frequently to avoid corrosion. Also, be sure to clean the frames frequently, especially near the coast to slow salt and corrosion build up.
Warranty: Aluminum windows typically come with a shorter 5-10 year warranty, reflecting the limitations in their longevity and durability, especially in coastal or high-moisture environments where corrosion can be a concern.
Vinyl Windows (The Better Choice for Most Homeowners):
Strength: Our vinyl windows are referred to as vinyl clad aluminum windows. The frames contain heavy aluminum reinforcement to improve the strength of the windows. They meet or exceed the requirements for hurricane resistance all over Florida.
Thermal Efficiency: Vinyl windows excel in thermal insulation. The material doesn’t conduct heat or cold, which significantly enhances energy efficiency, helping to keep your home comfortable year-round and reducing energy costs.
Maintenance: Vinyl windows are virtually maintenance-free. They don’t require painting or lube and are resistant to rust and corrosion, making them ideal for various climates, including coastal areas.-
Warranty: Unlike aluminum, our premium vinyl windows come with a lifetime warranty, giving you peace of mind knowing your investment is protected for the long haul.
In short, while aluminum is strong and in some rare cases can be needed, our vinyl windows offer equivalent strength in most applications. They also bring superior thermal performance, require less maintenance, and are backed by a lifetime warranty, making them a more cost-effective and energy-efficient choice for most homeowners.
Here’s a clear FAQ-style answer you can use:
Are hurricane windows required in Florida?
Not in all cases. Under the Florida Building Code (FBC), homes located in wind-borne debris regions (such as within one mile of the coast where design wind speeds are 130 mph or higher) must use either impact-resistant windows or approved protective coverings (like shutters).
For many inland locations, the requirement may not apply or may be less strict. You should check with your local building department for your county’s specific zone and requirements.
Think of your hurricane windows like a superhero shield. Design pressure (DP) is shown in pounds per square foot, and tells us how strong that shield is against powerful forces like wind and water. The higher the DP rating, the stronger the window is! For example, if a big storm comes with strong winds pushing against the window, a high DP-rated window can handle more force without breaking. It’s like a stronger superhero shield that won’t crack under pressure. Builders and engineers test windows to see how much wind and rain they can take, so homeowners know they’re protected when a storm hits. That’s why choosing the right DP rating is super important, especially in places with hurricanes!
There is often a misconception that insulated windows are only needed or good in certain parts of the country. Insulated windows, also known as insulated glass units (IGUs), are designed to improve a home’s energy efficiency by reducing heat transfer between the interior and exterior. These windows are made with two or more panes of glass that are separated by a spacer and sealed together to create an air-tight unit.
The space between the panes is typically filled with inert gas (like argon), which further enhances the window’s insulation properties by minimizing heat transfer.
The combination of the multiple glass panes and the gas fill helps to:
Reduce heat loss in winter and limit heat gain in summer, keeping your home more comfortable year-round.
Decrease energy costs:
As your HVAC system doesn’t have to work as hard to maintain a consistent indoor temperature.
Minimize outside noise, making your home quieter.
Reduce condensation, which can help prevent moisture buildup and the related issues like mold or frame damage.
In summary, insulated windows are highly effective for improving energy efficiency, comfort, and noise reduction, making them a valuable investment for any home.
Low-E (low-emissivity) coating is a microscopically thin, transparent layer applied to the surface of glass that helps regulate the amount of heat and light passing through a window. It works by blocking the passage of certain spectrums of light (radiation) and reflecting that heat back to its source while still allowing natural light to enter.
Here’s how it benefits homeowners:
1. Improves Energy Efficiency: Low-E coatings minimize the amount of infrared and ultraviolet light that can pass through glass, without affecting the amount of visible light that comes in. This helps keep your home warmer in the winter and cooler in the summer.
2. Reduces Heat Transfer: In colder months, the Low-E coating reflects heat back inside the house, reducing heat loss. In the summer, it reflects heat away from the home, keeping it cooler.
3. Blocks Harmful UV Rays: Low-E coatings block harmful ultraviolet (UV) rays that can cause fading to furniture, flooring, and other interior materials, protecting your belongings.
4. Enhances Comfort: By reducing the amount of heat transferred through the window, Low-E coated windows create a more comfortable indoor environment, with fewer cold spots near windows in the winter and less heat gain in the summer.
In short, Low-E coating helps your windows work more efficiently by providing better insulation, reducing energy costs, and protecting your home from UV damage.
The U-factor (also called U-value) is a key measure of a window’s thermal performance (Insulation), specifically how well it insulates against heat loss or gain. It tells you how much heat flows through the window, frame, and glazing combined.
How U-Factor Works: The U-factor measures the rate of heat transfer (how well the window conducts heat) and is expressed in BTUs per square foot per degree Fahrenheit (BTU/h·ft²·°F).- It ranges from 0.20 to 1.20 for most residential windows, with lower numbers being better for insulation.
What It Means:
Lower U-factor = Better insulation: A lower U-factor means less heat transfers through the window, making it more energy-efficient.
Higher U-factor = Poor insulation: A higher U-factor indicates the window is less effective at preventing heat loss, meaning more heat can escape in the winter or enter in the summer.
Example:
If you’re comparing two windows:
Window A has a U-factor of 0.30.
Window B has a U-factor of 0.50.
Window A is better at keeping heat from passing from one side of the window to the other, meaning it’s more energy-efficient and will help lower your energy bills.
In summary, the U-factor is a crucial metric for understanding a window’s ability to insulate. For optimal energy efficiency, choose windows with a lower U-factor. You can find more info here https://www.energystar.gov/products/storm_windows_0
To determine the energy efficiency of the windows you are buying, there are several key factors and labels you can look for:
1. Energy Star Certification:
– Energy Star-rated windows meet strict energy efficiency guidelines set by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. Windows with this certification are designed to reduce energy use, lower utility bills, and improve comfort.
2. NFRC Label:
The National Fenestration Rating Council (NFRC) provides standardized ratings for window performance. The NFRC label gives you clear metrics on a window’s energy efficiency:
– U-Factor: This measures how well the whole unit of the window prevents heat from escaping. The lower the U-Factor, the better the window insulates. Look for values between 0.20 and 0.6 (code minimum depending on your exact area) — lower is better for energy efficiency.
– Solar Heat Gain Coefficient (SHGC): This measures how much solar radiation (heat from the sun) the window allows inside. A lower SHGC (ranging from 0 to 1) indicates better heat-blocking performance, ideal for warmer climates.
– Visible Transmittance (VT): This tells you how much natural light the window allows in. A higher number means more light. Balancing VT with SHGC is important for energy efficiency and comfort.
– Air Leakage: This measures how much outside air enters through the window. Lower numbers are better; values typically range from 0.1 to 0.3.
3. Low-E Coating:
– As mentioned earlier, windows with Low-E coating are more energy-efficient because they help regulate heat transfer while allowing natural light. Be sure to ask if the windows include Low-E glass.
4. Gas Fills (Argon or Krypton):
– Windows filled with argon or krypton gas between panes improve insulation by reducing heat transfer. This can further enhance the window’s energy efficiency.
5. Frame Material:
– Vinyl or fiberglass frames are typically more energy-efficient than aluminum, which conducts heat more readily. Insulated frames further boost performance.
6. Warranty:
– A strong warranty—such as a lifetime warranty—often indicates that the manufacturer stands behind the quality and performance of the window, which can be a good sign of long-term energy efficiency.
By checking for these features and labels, you’ll be able to assess how energy-efficient the windows are, ensuring you make the best choice for your home and climate.
Turtle glass tint is a special type of window tint designed to help protect sea turtles. Most areas here in Southwest Florida, (including Lee County, Charlotte County, and Collier County) have special requirements for windows to protect sea turtles. When baby turtles hatch on the beach at night, they use the light from the moon to find their way to the ocean. But bright lights from houses and buildings can confuse them, making them go in the wrong direction. Turtle glass tint makes windows darker so less light escapes from homes near the beach. This helps baby turtles find the ocean safely. It also helps keep your home cooler by blocking some of the sun’s heat and protects your furniture from fading. So, it’s good for both turtles and people!
The Short answer is YES! We all know the value of insulating our homes here in Florida. Our windows are not any different. However, for some reason, there is a lot of confusing information out there on the internet. When you google this, you will definitely get conflicting answers. We understand that many of our customers want all of the information to allow them to make an informed decision.
Florida’s Climate Considerations: Florida has a hot and humid climate, with high solar heat gain. Here’s why Insulated Low-E windows are particularly beneficial:
Reduction of Solar Heat Gain: The Low-E coating reflects much of the sun’s infrared radiation (heat) keeping it away from the house and keeping indoor temperatures cooler. This helps reduce the need for (Load on) air conditioning.
Thermal Insulation: The sealed air gap or gas between the panes (usually argon or krypton) is a poor conductor of heat, further reducing heat transfer by conduction. This helps to keep the glass inside from getting hot and giving off more heat inside your house.
Prevention of Heat Loss or Gain: During the hot months here in Florida, both the insulation and Low-E help to reduce the amount of that outside heat that is allowed to come in. During cooler months, these same factors help reflect the heat generated inside the home back inside and keep the cold out, improving energy efficiency.
Still not sure? We can explore deeper to see how insulated low-emissivity (Low-E) windows are best for thermal regulation in a Florida home, if we use the principals of physics. We can explore how they reduce heat transfer, taking into account the following concepts: conduction, convection, and radiation.
Heat Transfer Mechanisms
1. Conduction:
Conduction is the process by which heat travels through solid materials.
The rate of heat conduction Q through a window can be described by
Fourier’s Law of Heat Conduction:
Q = kA(Ti−To)
d
Where:
k = thermal conductivity of the window material (The most commonly used silicate glasses have values between 0.9 and 1.2 W/(m·K) (watts per meter per degree Kelvin).
A = area of the window.
Ti = Temp Inside
To = Temp Outside
d = thickness of the window.
Insulated windows typically have double or triple glazing, which introduces layers of air or inert gas (such as argon) between panes. These gases have lower thermal conductivity than glass, reducing conduction.
Low-E Glass and Conduction:
Low-E coatings further minimize heat transfer by acting as a barrier to infrared radiation while allowing visible light to pass through. This means less energy is lost or gained via conduction.
2. Convection:
Convection refers to heat transfer due to the movement of fluids (such as air). In the case of windows, convection occurs in air leaks and between the window panes. The sealed air or gas-filled space between panes in insulated windows reduces convective currents.
Q convection = hA(Tglass1−Tglass2)
Where:
h = convective heat transfer coefficient (low in the case of insulated windows).
A = area of the window.
Tglass1 and Tglass2 = temperatures of the inner and outer panes.
In Low-E windows, the convective currents between panes are minimized, thus reducing heat transfer through convection.
3. Radiation:
Radiative heat transfer occurs when energy is emitted by one surface and absorbed by another. Low-E (Low Emissivity) coatings are specifically designed to reduce the radiative transfer of heat. The coating reflects infrared radiation (longwave radiation) back into the home during the winter and reflects outside heat (shortwave solar radiation) away during the summer.
The Stefan-Boltzmann Law describes radiative heat transfer:
Q radiation = ϵσAT4
Where:
ϵ = emissivity of the surface (lower for Low-E coatings).
σ = Stefan-Boltzmann constant.
A = area of the window.
T = temperature of the surface.
Since Low-E coatings lower the emissivity (ϵ) of the glass, they effectively reduce the amount of heat that radiates into the home in Florida’s hot climate.
4. Quantitative Example
Let’s assume: A single-pane glass window without a Low-E coating allows 85% of the sun’s infrared radiation to pass through. A Low-E window with double glazing and argon gas fill only allows 10−20% of the same radiation to pass through. The reduction in solar heat gain translates into a significant decrease in cooling load for the house. In Florida, where temperatures can exceed 95°F, minimizing this heat input reduces the energy required for air conditioning.
Conclusion
Insulated Low-E windows are best for thermal regulation in Florida because they:
1) Reduce conductive heat transfer through multiple panes and gas-filled spaces (Insulated).
2) Minimize convective heat transfer from leaks and between panes (Insulated).
3) Reflect infrared radiation, decreasing the amount of solar heat entering the home (Low-E).
These factors help maintain a more consistent indoor temperature and significantly reduce the energy needed for cooling in Florida’s hot climate, leading to improved thermal comfort and lower energy bills.
Can you feel the sun’s heat when you stand in front of your windows? Solar Heat Gain Coefficient (SHGC) is a measure of how much solar radiation (or heat from the sun) a window allows to pass through. It is an important factor for assessing the energy efficiency of windows, especially in warm climates where minimizing heat gain is a priority.
How SHGC Works:
SHGC is expressed as a value between 0 and 1.
A lower SHGC means the window allows less solar heat to enter your home.
A higher SHGC means more solar heat is transmitted through the window (like a green house).
What SHGC Means:
Low SHGC – Warm climates: (around 0.25–0.40 or less): Ideal for hot, sunny climates. A lower SHGC is better, as it minimizes the amount of heat from the sun that enters your home, making your living space more comfortable and energy-efficient. These windows reduce the amount of heat entering your home, which helps keep it cooler and reduces air conditioning costs.
High SHGC – Cold climates: (around 0.50–0.70): Beneficial in colder climates where you want to capture heat from the sun to naturally warm your home and reduce heating costs. A higher SHGC is advantageous, as it allows more solar heat to come through, helping to reduce heating costs by naturally warming your home.
Example:
Window A has an SHGC of 0.30: This window blocks 70% of solar heat, allowing only 30% to pass through. Ideal for keeping your home cooler in hot climates.- Window B has an SHGC of 0.60: This window allows 60% of solar heat to enter (like a green house), which might be beneficial in colder climates.
Summary:
SHGC is a key factor in controlling how much heat from sunlight passes through your windows. In warm regions, look for windows with a low SHGC to minimize heat gain and reduce cooling costs. In colder regions, a higher SHGC can help take advantage of the sun’s warmth to lower heating costs.
Neat Glass is a type of low-maintenance glass that features a special coating designed to keep windows cleaner for longer periods. It is primarily used in residential windows to reduce the need for frequent cleaning and improve visibility.
How Neat Glass Works:
Coating: Neat Glass has a thin, invisible coating of titanium dioxide, a naturally occurring compound that is activated by sunlight. This coating is usually applied to the outer surface of the glass.
Self-Cleaning: When exposed to UV light from the sun, the coating breaks down organic dirt and debris on the glass.
Hydrophilic Surface: The surface of Neat Glass is hydrophilic (water-attracting). Instead of forming water droplets that leave behind spots or streaks, water spreads out evenly across the glass and quickly rinses away dirt. Rainwater or a simple rinse with water can clean the glass more effectively than on traditional windows.
Benefits of Neat Glass:
1. Reduces Cleaning Effort: The self-cleaning properties of Neat Glass can greatly reduce the frequency and effort required for cleaning, making it ideal for hard-to-reach windows.
2. Clearer Views: Because it helps prevent dirt and water spots from accumulating, Neat Glass maintains clearer views through your windows.
3. Durability: The coating is designed to be long-lasting and does not require reapplication or special maintenance.
4. Energy Efficiency: Neat Glass can also be combined with other energy-efficient technologies, such as Low-E coatings, to provide both low maintenance and enhanced insulation.
Summary:
Neat Glass simplifies window maintenance by using a sunlight-activated coating that breaks down dirt and allows water to rinse it away without leaving streaks. This low-maintenance, self-cleaning feature makes it an excellent choice for homes, especially in areas where keeping windows clean can be a challenge.
Stainless Steel hardware is recommended by the manufacturer if you live within 3 miles of the coast. This includes many of the screws, balancers, and other parts that are subject to exposure to the exterior elements. This offers an additional layer of protection and durability that will help to ensure a long product life for the products you are buying.
We only provide top level service to our customers! Our in House Certified Install Team allows us to control the part of the process where most of our competitors fall short. We offer a complete end to end service to ensure your satisfaction with your new windows. Most of our competitors install windows using subcontractors only. The problem with this method is the quality varies and these subs only job is to get the window in and pass inspection. Most companies do not even do not provide any stucco repair or touch up paint. As long as the window can be caulked, they are done. The touch up paint, stucco and other things displaced or damaged in the process will be left for you to take care of later. While we do occasionally use subcontractors to install our windows, we only use select subs that meet our stringent quality standards and certification process. Very few can met the requirements to join our team. This includes care in all aspects of the project to minimize disturbance and dust while we work and leaving your project complete including any needed exterior touch up paint! You will love the work we do!
Installing replacement windows that include the complete frame is a process that requires careful measurement, removal of the old window, and proper fitting of the new window. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to install full-frame replacement windows:
Tools & Materials Needed:
Replacement windows with full frames
Tape measure
Pry bar
Utility knife
Screws
Level
Caulk and caulking gun
Flashing
Insulation (spray foam)
Drill and Impact Driver
Shims
Step-by-Step Installation Process:
1. Measure and Order the Replacement Windows
Measure the rough opening:
First, remove any window trim or casing to expose the frame. Measure the width and height of the rough opening (stud-to-stud), not the old window frame.
Measure at three points: top, middle, and bottom for width; and left, center, and right for height. Use the smallest measurements.
Order replacement windows based on the rough opening size. Ensure you have full-frame replacement windows rather than insert windows, which only replace the sashes.
2. Prepare the Area and Remove the Old Window
– Remove the interior and exterior trim around the window, being careful not to damage the surrounding wall or siding.
– Cut through the old caulk or paint seal with a utility knife.
– Pry out the old window: Use a pry bar to remove the old window, including the frame. If the window is nailed or screwed in place, remove those fasteners. Be cautious not to damage the house framing.
– Clean the rough opening: Once the old window is out, clean the opening, removing any debris or old insulation.
3. Inspect the Rough Opening
– Check for rot or damage: If you find any damage to the studs or framing, repair it before proceeding. The new window needs a solid structure to sit in.
– Level and square: Make sure the rough opening is square and level. If it isn’t, use shims to make adjustments before installing the new window.
4. Dry Fit the New Window
– Place the new window into the rough opening to ensure it fits properly. Most manufacturers require a gap of no more than 1/4″ from framing or bucking. Use shims if necessary to center and level the window and any gaps larger than 1/16″ should be shimmed. Make sure the window is plumb and square.
5. Apply Waterproofing and Flashing
– Apply flashing tape: Before placing the window, add flashing tape around the exterior edges of the rough opening. This will help prevent water intrusion. This should be placed Bottom – Sides – Top and overlapped to not allow water behind.
– You may also need to install a drip cap above the window to prevent water from running down behind the window frame. This typically installs behind the vapor barrier.
6. Insert and Secure the New Window
– Place the new window into the opening, starting from the bottom.
– Level and shim: Use a level to ensure the window is perfectly horizontal and vertical. Insert shims around the frame to maintain a secure fit. Make sure the window is square.
– Secure the window: Once the window is positioned correctly, fasten it to the framing using screws or nails. Most replacement windows come with pre-drilled holes for screws. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for securing the window frame.
7. Insulate Around the Frame
– Fill any gaps between the window frame and the rough opening with insulation. Use expanding foam, but don’t overfill, as this could warp the window.
8. Seal the Window
– Caulk the exterior: Apply a bead of exterior caulk around the perimeter of the window where it meets the siding or exterior trim. This helps to prevent air and water leaks.
– Install exterior trim: Reinstall the trim on the outside of the window, ensuring it’s properly sealed.
9. Install Interior Trim and Finish
– Reinstall interior trim: Attach the interior casing around the window, and caulk around it to create a tight seal.
– Touch up: Finish by painting or staining the trim as needed.
10. Check Operation
– Once installed, test the window to make sure it opens, closes, and locks properly. Ensure that it is airtight by checking for any drafts or misalignments.
Tips for a Successful Installation:
– Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions for installing the specific window type.
– Use flashing and caulking appropriately to prevent water damage.- Ensure that the window is level, plumb, and square before securing it.
– Work carefully when insulating and sealing the frame to avoid warping or air leakage.
By following these steps, you can ensure a professional-quality installation that improves your home’s energy efficiency and overall appearance.
Lead times constantly change, usually it takes about 6-12 weeks give or take from agreement to final inspection.
We believe that you should be able to buy your new windows with confidence. That’s why we offer an industry leading comprehensive lifetime warranty on most of our products! See more details at https://callsci.com/warranty
Does it matter which windows you choose? Of course it does! Just like any other product we purchase in our daily lives, hurricane windows have a huge variety of product options to choose from. From the made in China to the made right here in Florida, there are a variety of factors that can make a huge difference in the quality of the windows. In short, there is a significant difference in the quality of hurricane windows, and not all impact-resistant windows offer the same level of protection, durability, and energy efficiency. It is up to you to determine what factors are important to make sure you select the best option for your home.
Here are the key factors that set high-quality hurricane windows apart from lower-quality options:
1. Glass Strength & Construction
Laminated Impact Glass: Premium hurricane windows use multiple layers of laminated glass with a durable interlayer (like PVB or SGP) to resist impact, while lower-quality windows may use thinner or weaker glass along with subpar interlayers that will come apart over time.
Glass Thickness: Higher-quality impact windows often feature thicker glass, which provides better resistance to debris and extreme weather.
Seal Quality: The Seals on insulated glass packs can be the source a huge let down. Failures in these seals notoriously cause fogging in the windows that hurt the appearance of your home and your view. High quality seals help to assure your windows stay beautiful for years to come.
2. Frame Material & Durability
Aluminum Frames: Stronger and thinner but conduct heat more than vinyl, potentially affecting energy efficiency.
Vinyl Frames: Offer superior thermal efficiency, corrosion resistance, and long-term durability.
Reinforced Vinyl Frames: High-quality windows often include steel or aluminum reinforcement within vinyl frames for added strength.
3. Energy Efficiency Features
Low-E (Low Emissivity) Coatings: Reflect heat and UV rays, keeping homes cooler and reducing energy costs. High quality coatings will stand the test of time while others will fail.
Insulated Glass Units: Some high-quality hurricane windows feature double or triple-pane glass with argon or krypton gas between panes for improved insulation.
4. Hardware & Seal Quality
Stainless Steel Components: Premium hurricane windows use corrosion-resistant stainless steel hardware to withstand Florida’s humid and salty air.
Multi-Point Locking Systems: Provide better security and prevent air and water leaks.
Superior Weatherstripping: Ensures a tighter seal to reduce drafts, water intrusion, and noise.
5. Testing & Certification Standards
Florida Building Code (FBC) & Miami-Dade County Approval: The highest-rated hurricane windows meet strict impact and pressure testing to withstand Category 5 hurricane conditions.
ASTM & NFRC Ratings: Higher-quality windows are tested for air infiltration, water resistance, and structural integrity. These ratings can help you get an idea of the quality of the windows. Some of this information like U-Factor, SHGC, Air Leakage can be looked at in advance to better understand your products. There are explanations of these in other questions.
6. Warranty & Installation Quality
Industry-Leading Warranties: The best manufacturers and installers provide lifetime warranties on glass, frames, and installation. These great warranties can help assure you that you are buying the best quality products available.
In-House Installation Teams: The best windows in the world are only as good as the installation. A properly installed hurricane window ensures maximum performance, while poor installation can lead to leaks and reduced impact resistance. Our in house Installers use the best methods and the best sealing products available.
Conclusion:
All hurricane windows are not created equal! Investing in high-quality, properly installed hurricane windows ensures better storm protection, energy savings, and long-term durability. Schulte Construction offers only premium hurricane-rated windows with expert in-house installation and an industry-leading warranty, ensuring your home is protected for years to come.
We understand that buying windows can be a big investment in your home. We offer many options to help you make your purchase a reality. From long term options including the PACE program to 12 Months Same-as-Cash, we have the right program for you.