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One of the major questions about impact windows and doors is how much do they cost. The reality is that the answer depends on a variety of factors, including the number required, size and brand of window or door, the materials used, installation, and so much more.

 

Occasionally we will have a customer that just wants to purchase material only.  We are a impact window company that has a great relationship with the top manufacturers in the business. If you are a homeowner or a contractor that is looking to purchase impact windows, you are definitely in the right place.

In general, impact windows and doors cost more than your standard builder’s windows, but they offer a number of benefits that more than make them worth the investment. Impact windows and doors can help to improve the energy efficiency of your home, reduce noise pollution, and protect your property from severe weather conditions. To discern the cost of your impact windows, you first have to be aware of each of the following factors:

What determines the pricing for impact windows?

  • Manufacturer
  • Type of Window
  • Type of Frame – Aluminum or Vinyl
  • Type of Glass – Tinted, Lo-e, or privacy
  • Size
  • Type of opening – stucco, cbs, drywall, etc.
  • Design pressures required per building code
  • City or County Codes for energy efficiency
  • Permitting

Types of Windows

  • Single Hung Window
  • Double Hung Window
  • Casement Window
  • Architectural Window
  • Picture Window
  • Horizontal Roller Window
  • Awning Window
  • Storefront Window – Commercial

Window Sizes

There are commodity sizes which are designated by two numbers or two numbers and a letter.  For the most part those sizes would be considered the normal sized windows. When actually measuring openings, windows have to be adjusted to custom size. The bigger the window, the higher the square footage becomes, in return more framing material is needed which reflects the cost of the window.

Choosing new or replacement windows can be very overwhelming. After careful thought and consideration, you’ve decided to buy Hurricane Impact Windows. So, what comes next?

Now you need to determine whether you want vinyl or aluminum frames. But again, with so many options, advantages and disadvantages, how do you know what type of frame you really need for your home?

Impact Window & Impact Door Frames

Equally important as the window or door itself, the frame makes a tremendous difference in protecting your home against heavy storms, intruders, and more. Some of the most common materials include wood, aluminum, and vinyl. Both aluminum and vinyl are far less likely to crack, splinter, or rust as compared to traditional wood frames, and as such will cost more. 

Aluminum 

Aluminum window frames are known for their strength and durability. They are also very lightweight, making them easy to install and maintain. Additionally, aluminum frames are resistant to rust and corrosion, making them a good choice for coastal areas or homes that are exposed to harsh weather conditions.

Another advantage of aluminum window frames is that they can be painted to match any style of home. However, it is important to note that aluminum is a good conductor of heat and cold, so aluminum window frames may not be as energy-efficient as other types of frames.

Vinyl

Vinyl window frames are also a good choice for homeowners who are looking for a durable and low-maintenance option. Vinyl is a synthetic material that is made from PVC (polyvinyl chloride). Vinyl frames are resistant to moisture, rot, and fading, making them a good choice for all climates.

Vinyl window frames are also very energy-efficient. Vinyl is a good insulator, so it can help to keep your home cool in the summer and warm in the winter. Additionally, vinyl frames are typically less expensive than aluminum frames.

How aluminum impact window costs compare to vinyl

Aluminum is usually the go to choice for impact window framing because it is more affordable and usually has higher design pressures, the pricing ranges depending on the size and style per opening. Vinyl Frames are tailored for greater energy efficiency, they come standard with laminated insulated glass depending on the manufacturer you have the option of argon gas or air in the thermal break. Vinyl frames are more expensive and again depends on the size and style per opening.

Your windows will have a major effect on the energy efficiency of your household. When you are shopping for new hurricane impact windows, you will need to consider which types of windows will offer you the best energy efficiency. Typically, vinyl windows are slightly more efficient than their aluminum counterparts. With new vinyl windows, you can save on your monthly heating and cooling bills.

Impact resistance is another key factor to consider when you are shopping for replacement windows. In order to remain intact under the pressure of hurricane force winds, your windows will need to be incredibly strong and durable. Overall, aluminum impact windows offer better impact resistance than vinyl windows. You can also ask your window installers to provide you with more information about the impact resistant qualities of each type of window.

Both vinyl and aluminum windows should be fairly easy for your window contractor to install. By choosing new impact windows that offer simple installation, you will be able to get your home up to hurricane code in no time. Whether you choose vinyl or aluminum windows for your property, you will want to make sure that you hire a reputable contractor for your installation. A trained window installation professional will make sure that your new windows are ready to withstand a major storm.

Here are 5 things you need to know about Hurricane Impact Windows: Vinyl vs Aluminum Frames:

  1. Cost – Vinyl windows cost about 20-30% more than aluminum options. Cost is always a big consideration, but depending on your specific needs, the extra investment may be worthwhile.
  2. Energy Efficiency – Vinyl windows are more energy efficient (thus the higher price tag), however both types of frames still provide much better insulation than a window that is not impact-resistant. Aluminum windows attract heat from the outside into the building, but for an added cost can be protected with thermal breaks to improve energy efficiency.
  3. Curb Appeal – For the most part, vinyl windows are more appealing to the eye and are available in a wide variety of finishes. However, they cannot be painted, so exact color matches may not be possible. Due to their thicker frames, they also may not suit the style of the building they are needed for. Aluminum windows can be painted and therefore more color options are possible for exact matches. Their thinner frames also have a more modern appearance, which may be more suitable for bigger, commercial buildings.
  4. Durability – Although both types of frames offer some resistance to scratches, marks and denting, vinyl windows are highly resistant. If they do become damaged, the exposed parts are the same color as the rest of the frame due to consistent use of one material throughout the frame. Comparatively, when there is damage to an aluminum window, the paint on the frame can be scratched off, revealing the metal underneath and making them less pleasing to the eye. The steel or zinc fasteners also have the potential to corrode over time. However, aluminum windows are stronger than vinyl.
  5. Maintenance – Aluminum windows require more maintenance such as paint touch-ups and lubrication of their metal moving parts. Vinyl windows are relatively low-maintenance.

hurricane impact window average cost

Source: https://www.manta.com/cost-hurricane-impact-windows-west-palm-beach-fl

Majority of homeowner in West Palm Beach paid an average of $3,500-$8,000 in 2018.
Does not include:

  1. Any permits required for hurricane impact windows West Palm Beach projects.
  2. Inspection and/or West Palm Beach building fees.
  3. Materials and supply Palm Beach and Florida sales taxes.
  4. Materials and supply West Palm Beach sales taxes.
  5. Any general contractor fees, if used for the project. Such fees generally add another $223.44-$279.30 to the total.

How to choose what brand of window to buy?

1. All window companies or dealers represent one or more manufacturers of impact hurricane windows and doors.

It is similar to buying a stereo at Best Buy, you go to the store and ask the clerk what you are looking for and base your decision on what information is given to you, price, quality and warranty etc.

Best Buy carries a lot of different brands and manufacturers and it is the same way window companies operate.

However, unlike big department stores not all window companies carry the same windows and some dealers only carry 1 or 2 manufacturers and push those brands, because it is the only ones they sell.

All windows manufacturers have to go through Miami-Dade testing and/or State of Testing testing so that their products are approved so that they meet the Florida Building Code to be used for hurricane protection.

What this means is that a product can be Miami-Dade or Florida approved and meet code but not necessarily be the best fit for your building or project.

2. So how do you choose? Do your home work in first hiring the right contractor meeting criteria above.

Also that the company has plenty of choices in different window brands so that they cater to your needs, not theirs.

Any window company with prestige and a good reputation will have references, pictures of work and a showroom to compare products.

I always like to take my customers to existing jobs where my installers are working and show them the work in progress, work completed and the product we are proposing.

This also gives the potential customer to talk to the existing customer and get feedback about the work we are doing with them.

3. On a more technical level you should choose your impact hurricane windows and doors based on your needs for the product itself and the design pressure of the building.

How Much do Impact Windows Cost? – Factors That Determine Price

  • Window Type
    • The main factor that often defines the cost of installation for most windows is the window type. Typically, something such as rounded architectural window installation cost can turn out to be twice as high as for standard rectangular. And when it comes to protection, you’ll be paying the most for the price of hurricane windows
  • Window opening location
    • Hurricane impact windows cost can also be determined based on where the window is being installed. If the window is being installed on ground level in an area that’s fairly convenient and easy for installers to work in, then the cost will be likely within a cheap amount. If, however, installers need to work on a second floor or higher and are working on an area where flexibility and space is limited, then the average cost of impact windows offered to you may be on the higher end of the spectrum.
  • Opening materials
    • As simple as they are, the design and style of opening materials can also determine hurricane proof windows cost. The more complex they are in design, the more it will cost.
  • Size of window
    • storm window prices can soar depending on how big your new impact windows are. If you’re having standard, average-sized windows installed on your property, then you may either be offered the average cost of impact windows or a lower rate. However, if the window requires two people to install it, costs will likely be higher.
  • Window sill material
    • The strength of a window sill also contributes to the price of hurricane windows. Most who want impact windows typically choose stronger window sill material, leading to higher costs. But you can also opt-in having average strength window sill material installed as well.
  • Stucco patching/painting
    • Areas that often reside in hurricane zones usually have stucco siding – very common in Florida. Usually, the stucco that surrounds the window frame is damaged, even when replacement windows are being installed from inside the property. When the siding is damaged, a stucco specialist will need to be called in, further contributing to the increase in hurricane impact windows cost.
  • Lift Rental
    • For any windows that are being installed on the second floor or higher, a lift rental will be required. And with a lift rental, the average cost of impact windows tends to go up higher. Also, the duration for installing a second-story window tends to be fairly lengthy, further increasing cost estimates.
  • Time of Year
    • During hurricane season, the entire state of Florida will go into a frenzy just trying to get the necessary protection. So if you’re getting an installation during this time, hurricane proof windows cost will usually be above the average cost of impact windows. But during the off-season, you can definitely get it at a lowered price.
    • Installers are busier, so costs are higher, during hurricane season – and especially if a hurricane or tropical storm is brewing out at sea.
  • New vs. Replacement
    • Replacing your current windows can prove to be fairly costly. Installers will need to remove your current windows and implement the new impact windows, which will increase the average cost of impact windows. And this isn’t just due to the complexity of such a procedure, but also because it’s very time consuming. But if you’re property is currently undergoing construction and hurricane proof windows are installed to begin with, installation is much faster and less difficult to perform, making it more affordable to purchase.

Impact Window and Impact Door Installation

The last major component of impact window and door pricing is the installation. The typical installation process can take anywhere from one to three days, and this is ultimately determined by the number of windows and doors and the location of the windows and doors. While it can be DIY’d, we strongly recommend trusting in a highly-skilled impact window and door installation team. There are various nuances and technical skills required to ensure a flawless installation across an entire house, and an improper job can lead to the entire impact system failing.

As the largest dealer in impact windows within South Florida, we’re proud to also offer our in-house installation team. Experts for decades, our installers are able to minimize installation time while also ensuring an ideal execution for every single window and door. You can rest assured knowing that your new windows and doors will never fail you, even when a major hurricane is raging outside. 

The average cost for window replacement with hurricane impact windows varies on the size of the windows.

When you are looking to replace your windows give us a call and we will provide you a free estimate.

In Conclusion, when you are prepared and ready to purchase hurricane impact windows, give us a call today at (561)598-6295 and schedule a free estimate or fill out our form.

One of our experts in the estimating department will speak to you and give you the best options.

The Window Guys provides top-notch impact window installation service in the following South Florida cities and towns:

Learn more about The Window Guys of Florida, your impact window and door source.

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