Learn More About Hurricane Impact Windows for Your Home

1. Window Types

The most common windows types for residential homes are Single Hung or Horizontal Rolling windows. Typically, single hung windows are used for bathrooms while horizontal rolling windows are used for bedrooms or kitchens. Horizontal windows are recognized for their ease of opening. Casement windows are also another type of windows that are used for a more unique form of opening.

2. Frame Color

When selecting a frame color, consider the exterior paint color of your home and how your impact window or door frame color may contrast. Our typical frame colors are Bronze of White which often pair well with a light yellow, brown or white exterior paint coat. Consider the aesthetic your desire for your home and how the exterior paint color and frame color would work together.

Pro Tip: If you have a white color house, consider a bronze painted window or door frame for a modern look.

3. Glass Color

There are three most common color options for impact windows: Clear, Gray and Privacy. The Privacy glass has a white or gray interlayer which gives it a white or gray color – this is often referred to as the frosted look. The Privacy feature is typically reserved for bathrooms while all other windows are more likely to be ordered with a gray tint.

Pro Tip: Match the color of your bathroom privacy glass with that of your front door.

4. Permits

Permits are often required for Homeowner Associations and Communities alike. The permit process requires the submittal of paperwork, approval from the City and HOA, and is followed by an Inspection from the City during and post installation.

It’s important to consult a professional on these matters because of their industry knowledge. For instance, most rooms require a window that opens (such as a Single Hung or Horizontal Window) because the Fire Department requires what is known as a ‘Egress’ window, which can be opened for escape in case of an emergency.

If you purchase an Impact Window, and decide you can install it yourself, you can save on some fees and order a ‘Permit by Owner,’ in which you take on the responsibility to pass the Permit Inspection and install the product yourself.

5. Glass Features

From glass thickness to wind speed pressures, it’s important to consider how strong you want your window to be made.

You’ve probably heard of Solar Band, Low-E or Energy Efficient Impact Windows. These features are ‘films’ that keep some of the sun’s heat from penetrating your home and helps you save on your electricity bill.

The most popular glass thickness measurements are 5/16, 7/16 glass and 9/16 (Think: ‘9/16th of an inch’). The 9/16 glass thickness is typically used for doors.

Window pressures measure the wind speed your window can withstand. The secondary benefit being the noise reduction feature this thick glass can provide. This can range on manufacturer, window size and with glass thickness.