Impact Window & Door Manufacturers: CWS, ES Windows, BHI & Tecnoglass

Choosing the right impact windows and doors for a Florida home involves more than selecting a contractor. The manufacturer and specific product series can also affect the frame material, window styles, door configurations, glass options, product approvals, design capabilities, appearance, and warranty available for the project.

Florida homeowners researching impact products may encounter manufacturers such as Custom Window Systems (CWS), ES Windows, BHI, and Tecnoglass.

However, comparing manufacturers by name alone does not tell the entire story.

The better approach is to compare the exact products available for your home, understand how they differ, and determine which manufacturer and product configuration best fits the specific openings and requirements of your project.

This guide explains what homeowners should consider when comparing impact window and door manufacturers available through Statewide Windows & Doors.


Why Does the Impact Window Manufacturer Matter?

Impact window and door manufacturers develop different product lines for different types of residential and commercial applications.

Depending on the manufacturer and product series, differences can include:

  • Vinyl or aluminum frames
  • Window styles
  • Door configurations
  • Frame profiles
  • Glass packages
  • Available dimensions
  • Hardware
  • Colors and finishes
  • Energy-performance options
  • Applicable product approvals
  • Design-pressure capabilities
  • Warranty terms

This means two impact windows from different manufacturers may both provide impact resistance while still being very different products.


Do Not Choose Impact Windows by Brand Name Alone

Brand reputation can be useful when beginning your research, but the manufacturer's name should not be the only factor in the decision.

A single manufacturer may offer multiple product series with different specifications.

Instead of asking only, "Which brand is better?" homeowners should also ask:

  • Which exact product series is being quoted?
  • Is the frame vinyl or aluminum?
  • What glass configuration is included?
  • Which window styles are available?
  • Is the exact configuration appropriate for my opening?
  • What product approval applies?
  • What design requirements apply to my home?
  • What warranty applies to this product?

Impact Window and Door Manufacturers Available Through Statewide

Statewide Windows & Doors works with impact window and door manufacturers to provide Florida homeowners with product options for different homes, openings, architectural styles, and project requirements.

Among the manufacturers homeowners may encounter through Statewide are:

  • Custom Window Systems (CWS)
  • ES Windows
  • BHI
  • Tecnoglass

Product availability can vary, so homeowners should discuss current options and exact product series with Statewide when planning their project.


Custom Window Systems (CWS)

Custom Window Systems, commonly referred to as CWS, is a Florida-based manufacturer of windows and doors.

Florida homeowners may encounter CWS while researching impact-resistant replacement windows and doors for residential projects.

Depending on the current product series available for a particular project, CWS can provide options for homeowners comparing different frame materials, window styles, glass packages, and configurations.

The important step is identifying the exact CWS product being proposed rather than evaluating the project based only on the CWS name.


Why Florida Homeowners Consider CWS

CWS may be considered when homeowners are researching impact-resistant products designed for Florida properties.

When evaluating a CWS proposal, consider:

  • Exact product series
  • Frame material
  • Window style
  • Glass package
  • Available sizes
  • Product approval
  • Design requirements
  • Warranty

The appropriate product depends on the specific home and opening.


CWS Vinyl Impact Windows

Homeowners interested in vinyl impact windows may encounter CWS products during their research.

Vinyl frames can appeal to Florida homeowners interested in combining impact resistance with particular thermal-performance characteristics and residential aesthetics.

However, not every vinyl impact window has identical specifications.

Compare the exact CWS series, glass configuration, dimensions, approvals, and other specifications included in the proposal.


CWS Aluminum Impact Products

Depending on current product availability, homeowners may also encounter aluminum options while researching CWS.

Aluminum frames can provide different profiles and characteristics from vinyl systems.

Rather than assuming one material is universally better, homeowners should compare the products available for their particular project.


ES Windows

ES Windows is another manufacturer Florida homeowners may encounter while researching impact-resistant windows and doors.

ES products can be particularly relevant for homeowners interested in aluminum-framed impact systems and contemporary architectural designs.

As with any manufacturer, the exact ES Windows series and configuration should be evaluated rather than relying only on the brand name.


Why Florida Homeowners Consider ES Windows

Homeowners may consider ES Windows when looking for impact-resistant products that fit the design and performance requirements of their home.

Depending on the product series, homeowners may evaluate ES products for:

  • Impact-resistant windows
  • Impact-resistant doors
  • Aluminum frame systems
  • Large glass openings
  • Modern architectural styles
  • Different window and door configurations

Current availability and specifications should always be verified for the actual project.


ES Windows for Modern Florida Homes

Modern Florida architecture often incorporates large areas of glass, narrow visual profiles, expansive views, and strong connections between indoor and outdoor spaces.

Depending on the series, ES products may be considered for projects where homeowners want impact protection while maintaining a contemporary appearance.

Product selection should still begin with the requirements of the opening rather than appearance alone.


ES Windows for Large Openings

Large windows and doors require careful product selection because dimensions and configurations can affect which products are appropriate.

When considering ES Windows for a large opening, homeowners should review:

  • Opening dimensions
  • Exact product series
  • Panel configuration
  • Glass configuration
  • Applicable product approval
  • Design requirements
  • Installation requirements

BHI Impact Doors

BHI is another manufacturer homeowners may encounter when researching impact-resistant exterior doors.

For Florida homeowners replacing an entry door, the project may involve much more than selecting a door based on appearance.

An impact door system can include the door panel, frame, impact-resistant glazing where applicable, hardware, hinges, threshold, weatherstripping, and anchoring components.

BHI products should therefore be evaluated as complete systems.


Why Homeowners Consider BHI Impact Doors

BHI may be considered by homeowners looking for impact-resistant entry-door options for Florida properties.

Depending on current products and configurations, homeowners may evaluate factors such as:

  • Door style
  • Door material
  • Amount of glass
  • Decorative options
  • Single or double door configurations
  • Sidelites
  • Hardware
  • Product approvals
  • Warranty

Impact Entry Doors Are About More Than Appearance

The front door can significantly affect the appearance of a home, but Florida homeowners should also evaluate the technical side of the product.

Before selecting an impact entry door, consider:

  • Opening dimensions
  • Door configuration
  • Impact glazing
  • Frame
  • Hardware
  • Applicable product approval
  • Design requirements
  • Installation

Learn more in Statewide's Impact Doors guide.


Tecnoglass

Tecnoglass is another name homeowners may encounter when researching architectural glass, windows, and doors.

Statewide homeowners may ask about Tecnoglass while comparing manufacturers, particularly when researching modern impact-resistant systems and larger glazed openings.

As with every manufacturer, availability and suitability depend on the exact product and project.

Homeowners should verify current product options directly with Statewide rather than assuming every product from a manufacturer's broader catalog is available for every residential project.


Why Tecnoglass Is Included in Manufacturer Research

Homeowners researching impact products often compare multiple manufacturers before requesting a quote.

Including Tecnoglass in that research can help homeowners understand another manufacturer they may encounter while comparing products.

However, the goal should still be selecting the appropriate product for the home rather than choosing a project solely because of the manufacturer name.


CWS vs. ES Windows: What Should You Compare?

CWS and ES Windows may both appear during a Florida homeowner's impact-window research, but comparing the two requires looking beyond their names.

Useful comparison points include:

  • Available frame materials
  • Window styles
  • Frame profiles
  • Glass configurations
  • Energy-performance options
  • Available dimensions
  • Applicable product approvals
  • Design capabilities
  • Hardware
  • Warranty terms

The better choice depends on the actual opening and homeowner's priorities.


CWS vs. ES Windows: Vinyl vs. Aluminum Considerations

Frame material can be one of the major differences homeowners encounter while comparing products.

Vinyl and aluminum each have characteristics that can make them appropriate for different projects.

Consider factors such as:

  • Appearance
  • Frame profile
  • Opening dimensions
  • Thermal characteristics
  • Available configurations
  • Product approval
  • Design requirements
  • Budget

Statewide Windows & Doors offers both vinyl and aluminum impact window options, allowing homeowners to compare products based on the actual project rather than being limited to one frame material.


Which Manufacturer Makes the Best Impact Windows?

There is no single manufacturer that is automatically the best choice for every Florida home.

A product that works well for one opening may not be the right choice for another.

The better question is:

Which specific product best fits the requirements and priorities of my project?

That requires evaluating the manufacturer together with the product series, configuration, glass, frame, approval, dimensions, design requirements, installation, warranty, and price.


Which Manufacturer Makes the Best Impact Doors?

The same principle applies to impact doors.

A homeowner replacing a front entry door may have different priorities from someone replacing French doors or a large sliding glass door.

Instead of searching for one universally "best" door manufacturer, compare products that fit the exact opening and project requirements.


Manufacturer vs. Product Series

This is one of the most important distinctions homeowners should understand.

A manufacturer is the company that produces the window or door.

A product series is a particular family of products offered by that manufacturer.

Different series from the same manufacturer can have different:

  • Frames
  • Glass options
  • Window styles
  • Door configurations
  • Dimensions
  • Design capabilities
  • Approvals
  • Hardware

This is why homeowners should ask for the exact series included in their quote.


Why Product Approval Matters More Than Brand Recognition

A recognizable manufacturer name does not automatically mean every product made by that company is appropriate for every Florida property.

The specific product and configuration should be approved for its intended application.

Depending on the project, approval documentation can contain important information involving:

  • Product type
  • Maximum dimensions
  • Glass configuration
  • Design pressures
  • Anchoring
  • Installation conditions
  • Limitations of use

Manufacturer Selection in Miami-Dade and Broward County

Miami-Dade and Broward County are within Florida's High-Velocity Hurricane Zone, commonly called the HVHZ.

For applicable projects in these areas, homeowners should verify that the specific manufacturer product and configuration proposed for the project is approved for its intended HVHZ application.

Simply knowing that a manufacturer sells impact windows does not answer that question.


Miami-Dade NOA and Florida Product Approval

Homeowners researching manufacturers may encounter Miami-Dade Notices of Acceptance and Florida Product Approvals.

A Miami-Dade NOA is one recognized product-approval pathway.

Florida also maintains a statewide product approval system.

For an HVHZ project, homeowners should not assume that a generic Florida Product Approval automatically means every configuration is approved for HVHZ use.

The exact approval and intended application matter.


Why Design Pressure Matters When Comparing Manufacturers

Window and door products can have different design capabilities depending on their size and configuration.

The appropriate design requirements depend on the specific property and opening.

When comparing manufacturers, homeowners should make sure they are comparing products appropriate for the actual project rather than comparing generic marketing specifications.


Comparing Impact Window Frame Materials

Frame material is another important part of manufacturer selection.

Florida homeowners commonly encounter vinyl and aluminum impact windows.

Vinyl Impact Windows

Vinyl frames may appeal to homeowners interested in particular energy-performance characteristics, frame designs, and residential aesthetics.

Aluminum Impact Windows

Aluminum frames may appeal to homeowners interested in narrower profiles, contemporary architecture, or product configurations available in aluminum systems.

Neither material should automatically be treated as the correct choice for every home.


Compare Impact Glass Packages

Even when two windows are both impact-resistant, the glass package may differ.

Depending on the product, options may involve:

  • Laminated impact glazing
  • Insulated glass configurations
  • Low-E coatings
  • Tints
  • Other product-specific glass options

When comparing quotes, verify whether the proposed glass packages are actually comparable.


Compare Window Styles

Different manufacturers and product series may offer different window styles.

Common options can include:

  • Single-hung windows
  • Horizontal roller windows
  • Casement windows
  • Picture windows
  • Architectural or specialty shapes

The right style depends on the opening, ventilation preferences, appearance, operation, and available approved configurations.


Compare Impact Door Options

Manufacturer research should not stop at windows.

If the project includes exterior doors, compare:

  • Front entry doors
  • Glass entry doors
  • French doors
  • Single and double doors
  • Sidelites
  • Transoms
  • Sliding glass doors

A manufacturer that works well for the windows does not necessarily need to manufacture every door included in the project.


Compare Sliding Glass Door Options

Sliding glass doors can represent some of the largest exterior openings in a Florida home.

Manufacturer selection for these systems may involve:

  • Number of panels
  • Panel dimensions
  • Frame material
  • Glass package
  • Track system
  • Rollers
  • Hardware
  • Design requirements
  • Product approvals

Learn more in Statewide's Impact Sliding Glass Doors guide.


Do Impact Window Manufacturers Provide Warranties?

Manufacturers may provide warranties for their products, but terms and coverage can vary.

Homeowners should review the actual warranty documents applicable to the exact product being purchased.

Questions to ask include:

  • What components are covered?
  • How long does coverage last?
  • Are there exclusions?
  • Are labor costs included?
  • Are coastal properties treated differently?
  • What maintenance is required?
  • How is a warranty claim started?

Manufacturer Warranty vs. Installation Warranty

A product warranty and an installation or workmanship warranty are not necessarily the same thing.

The manufacturer may provide coverage for certain product components, while the contractor may have separate terms involving installation workmanship.

Homeowners should understand both before signing the contract.


Why Installation Still Matters Regardless of Manufacturer

A strong manufacturer does not eliminate the importance of proper installation.

The selected window or door must still be installed according to the requirements applicable to the product and project.

Installation can involve:

  • Opening preparation
  • Product placement
  • Anchoring
  • Alignment
  • Sealants
  • Water-management details
  • Hardware adjustments
  • Finishing work

Homeowners should evaluate the contractor and installation process alongside the manufacturer.


Should You Choose the Manufacturer or Contractor First?

Homeowners often begin with one of two approaches.

Some identify a particular manufacturer first and then search for a contractor who offers that product.

Others choose an experienced contractor and then compare the manufacturer's products available for their particular project.

Either approach can work, but the final decision should account for both the product and the company responsible for installation.


Questions to Ask About an Impact Window Manufacturer

  • What is the exact manufacturer?
  • What product series is included?
  • Is the frame vinyl or aluminum?
  • What glass configuration is included?
  • Which styles are available?
  • What sizes are available for my openings?
  • What product approval applies?
  • Is this configuration appropriate for my location?
  • What design requirements does it meet for my project?
  • What warranty applies?
  • What maintenance is recommended?

Questions to Ask When Comparing Manufacturer Quotes

Before deciding that one quote is more expensive than another, determine whether the contractors are actually quoting comparable products.

Compare:

  1. Manufacturer
  2. Product series
  3. Frame material
  4. Window or door style
  5. Dimensions
  6. Glass package
  7. Hardware
  8. Product approval
  9. Installation scope
  10. Permit handling
  11. Warranty
  12. Post-installation service

Common Manufacturer Comparison Mistakes

Choosing Based Only on Brand Recognition

A familiar name does not automatically make every product from that manufacturer appropriate for your project.

Comparing Different Product Types

A vinyl window and an aluminum window may have different characteristics even if both are impact-resistant.

Ignoring the Product Series

Manufacturers can offer multiple series with different specifications.

Ignoring the Glass Package

Two impact windows may include different glazing configurations.

Assuming Every Product Is Approved Everywhere

Verify the specific product and configuration for the intended application.

Forgetting About Installation

The product and contractor should be evaluated together.


How Statewide Helps Homeowners Compare Manufacturers

Statewide Windows & Doors helps Florida homeowners compare impact window and door products based on their actual property rather than relying only on manufacturer marketing.

The process can involve evaluating:

  • Existing openings
  • Window and door styles
  • Vinyl and aluminum options
  • Glass packages
  • Product configurations
  • Applicable approvals
  • Project requirements
  • Homeowner design preferences
  • Budget

This allows homeowners to evaluate manufacturers in the context of the complete project.


Statewide Windows & Doors: Impact Products for Florida Homes

Statewide Windows & Doors provides impact windows, impact doors, and impact sliding glass doors for Florida homeowners.

With more than 25 years of combined industry experience, Statewide helps homeowners navigate product selection, measurements, permitting, installation, inspections, and project completion.

Homeowners can explore completed projects, review service areas, or contact Statewide Windows & Doors to discuss current manufacturer and product options for their property.


How to Choose Between CWS, ES Windows, BHI, and Other Impact Products

Start with your home rather than the manufacturer's logo.

Identify the openings being replaced, determine the styles and materials you prefer, understand the requirements applicable to the property, and then compare the products available for those openings.

For one homeowner, a CWS product may fit the project's priorities. Another property may be better suited to an ES Windows configuration. A homeowner replacing an entry door may consider BHI products, while other projects may involve different available manufacturers or product combinations.

The goal is not to select a brand simply because its name is familiar.

The goal is to select an appropriate impact-resistant product and have it professionally installed as part of a properly planned project.


Final Words

CWS, ES Windows, BHI, Tecnoglass, and other impact product manufacturers can offer Florida homeowners different options for windows and doors.

But manufacturer name alone should never be the entire decision.

Compare the exact product series, frame material, glass package, window or door style, dimensions, product approvals, design requirements, warranty, installation scope, and contractor responsible for the work.

When homeowners evaluate the complete system instead of focusing only on the logo printed on the product, they can make a more informed decision about which impact windows and doors fit their Florida home.