Be Preapred: Impact Windows Can Enhance Your Home

Be Prepared: How Impact Windows Can Enhance Your Home

One of the first improvements we made to our 1992 Florida home that we purchased in 2018 was replacing the windows and doors to impact windows and doors. We have been able to reap many benefits following the installation. I enjoy the quietness, I felt encapsulated the first week after the project was finished but you get accustomed to it.

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It’s not totally sound proof but there was an obvious difference. So if you are in a high-traffic area that could be a good reason for you to consider installing both impact windows and doors. Let’s dive into them more.

Residential Window LifeSpans

The lifespan of windows in a home can vary depending on a number of factors, such as the type of window, the material it is made from, and the level of maintenance it receives.

Wood windows typically last for about 20-25 years.
Vinyl windows, which are known for their durability and low maintenance, can last for 20-40 years.
Aluminum windows can last for 20-25 years but they might have thermal issues over time.
Fiberglass windows can last for up to 40 years or more, they have a very good thermal performance and also low maintenance.

A poor installation can lead to leaks, drafts, and water damage, which can shorten the life of the windows.

Impact Windows Material Type

Determining the “best” windows and doors can depend on a variety of factors, such as the specific needs of the homeowner, the local building codes, and budget. Some key factors to consider when looking for impact windows and doors include the material used, energy efficiency, and certification.

Some of the most common materials used in impact windows include:

Tempered Glass: Tempered glass is a type of safety glass that is heated and cooled rapidly to create a stronger and more durable material. It is about four times stronger than regular glass and can withstand a significant amount of impact.
Laminated Glass: Laminated glass is made by sandwiching a layer of plastic between two layers of glass. This creates a strong, shatter-resistant material that can withstand impact and break-ins.
Polycarbonate: Polycarbonate is a type of plastic that is known for its strength, durability, and resistance to impact. It is often used in the manufacturing of bullet-resistant windows and skylights.
Aluminum: Aluminum frames are also used in impact windows, aluminum frames are strong and durable, but can be less energy-efficient.
Composite: Composite frames are also used in impact windows, they are a mix of different materials and are known for their durability, energy efficiency and also low-maintenance.

These details will be provided from your installer and you will also be provide with plenty of documents that include the NOA (Notice of Acceptance). A NOA (Notice of Acceptance) is a document issued by Miami-Dade County that certifies that a product has been evaluated and approved for use in Miami-Dade County, Florida. Miami-Dade County has some of the most stringent building codes in the United States, particularly when it comes to products that are designed to withstand severe weather conditions, such as hurricanes and high winds.

The NOA document is issued by the Miami-Dade County Building Code Compliance Office (BCCO) after a product has been tested and evaluated by an accredited testing laboratory and has been found to meet or exceed the requirements set forth by the Miami-Dade County building code. This includes testing for impact resistance, water penetration resistance, and air infiltration.

Note: a NOA is specific to impact windows in miami-Dade County and does not necessarily mean that the product meets building codes and standards of other localities, states or countries.

Pros and Cons of Installing Impact Windows

Pros:

Protection against severe weather: the windows and doors are designed to withstand high winds and flying debris during severe weather conditions such as hurricanes, which can provide added protection for a home and its inhabitants.
Enhanced security: Impact rated windows and doors are also more resistant to break-ins, providing added security for a home.
Energy efficiency: Impact storm windows and doors can also improve a home’s energy efficiency by reducing drafts and keeping the home more comfortable year-round.
Noise reduction: these windows and doors can help reduce noise from outside, which can be beneficial for homes located near busy streets or airports.
Increased property value: changing the windows and doors can also increase a home’s property value, making it more attractive to potential buyers in the future.
Possible reduction in insurance cost, especially for Florida residence. It’s apart of our legislature for insurance companies to provide discounts for homes with windstorm protection (you will need a wind mitigation inspection to be completed to submit to your insurance company)

Cons:

Cost: Impact windows and doors can be more expensive than traditional windows and doors.
Installation: The installation of impact windows and doors can be more complex than traditional windows and doors and may require specialized equipment and expertise.
Limited design options: Impact windows and doors may have limited design options compared to traditional windows and doors, which can be a consideration for homeowners who are looking to enhance the aesthetic of their home.
Difficult to open in emergency: Some impact windows can be difficult to open in case of an emergency, such as a fire.

Cost of Impact Resistant Windows

Depending on where the home is located, the selection of the manufacturer, contractor, window material type and complexity of the project your cost will vary between projects.

A basic sliding window with a single-panel glass can cost anywhere from $300 to $800 per window, depending on the size and quality of the window.
A basic sliding glass door can cost anywhere from $1000 to $3000 per door, depending on the size and quality of the door.
If you choose to go with a high-end option like a fixed or casement window with a double-paneled glass, or a French door, the cost can increase to $1000 or more per window or door.
Another important factor to consider is the cost of installation, which can range from $100 to $500 per window or door depending on the complexity of the job and the cost of labor in the area.

When there are supply chain and a reduction is materials available you can expect to pay up to 30% more on average per opening that is being upgraded.

Some Popular Manufacturers

-ECO Windows and Doors is a manufacturer of impact-resistant windows and doors based in Miami, Florida.

-PGT Industries is a leading manufacturer of impact-resistant windows and doors based in Venice, Florida. The company was founded in 1980 and has grown to become one of the largest manufacturers of impact-resistant windows and doors in the United States.

-CWS (Custom Window Systems) is a manufacturer of impact-resistant windows and doors based in Ocala, Florida. They have been in business since 1986 and specialize in creating products that can withstand severe weather conditions, such as hurricanes and high winds.

Summary

We installed CWS windows and doors on our home which included 18 openings including doors for just under $30 grand. We love the look and all the other pros listed here in the article. The projects execution took a bit longer due to supply chain issues but the product is awesome.

Please ensure you choose a solid contractor for installation, the biggest isn’t always the best. We would give ours 3 Stars. Communication and customer service was poor.

I hope this blog article has been helpful. If you have additional questions and want to get in contact with GGR Home Inspections please send us a note, text, or call.