Blog: Impact Windows

Not every window in a Florida home needs to open. In some rooms, homeowners care more about natural light, outdoor views, clean sightlines, and hurricane protection than ventilation. That is where picture impact windows, also called fixed impact windows, can be an excellent option.

When Florida homeowners start comparing impact windows, choosing the glass and frame material is only part of the decision. The way the window opens can also affect ventilation, appearance, maintenance, operation, and where the window works best in the home.

When Florida homeowners compare impact windows, much of the attention goes to the glass. But the frame surrounding that glass is also an important part of the complete impact-resistant window system. Two of the most common frame materials homeowners encounter are aluminum and vinyl.

When Florida homeowners shop for impact windows, hurricane protection is usually the first priority. But after choosing an impact-resistant window system, another decision often comes up: should you add Low-E glass?

When Florida homeowners compare impact windows, one of the questions that often comes up is glass thickness. It seems logical to assume that thicker glass must automatically mean stronger hurricane protection.

When Florida homeowners shop for impact windows, they often focus on the glass, frame material, appearance, and price. But another important part of selecting the appropriate window or door system is design pressure.

Installing impact windows is a major milestone in a Florida window replacement project, but installation day may not be the final step. When a project requires a building permit, an inspection may be required before the permitted work can be finalized.

Choosing your impact windows is only the beginning of a Florida window replacement project. Before the old windows come out and the new ones go in, several important steps typically happen behind the scenes. Final measurements must be confirmed.

Impact windows are a major investment in a Florida home, so understanding the warranty should be part of the buying process—not something homeowners look at only after a problem occurs. However, the word "warranty" can be misleading if you do not know exactly what is covered.

Getting multiple quotes for impact windows is a smart step for Florida homeowners, but comparing those quotes is not always as simple as looking at the total price.