Before You Buy: Questions to Ask Your Impact Window Installer
Choosing an impact window installer is one of the most important decisions you'll make as a Florida homeowner. The difference between a quality installation and a poor one can mean the difference between a protected home and a disaster when storms strike. Unfortunately, not all contractors are equally qualified, honest, or reliable.
At Window Guys of Florida, we encourage homeowners to ask tough questions—including asking us. This guide provides the essential questions every Florida homeowner should ask before signing a contract.
Licensing and Insurance Questions
1. Are you properly licensed in Florida?
Florida requires window contractors to hold a valid license. Ask for:
- State license number (verify at myfloridalicense.com)
- Type of license: General contractor, building contractor, or specialty window license
- Local business license: Required in most municipalities
Red flag: Any contractor who hesitates to provide license information or asks you not to verify.
2. What insurance coverage do you carry?
Legitimate contractors should carry:
- General liability insurance: Minimum $1 million coverage
- Workers' compensation insurance: Protects you if workers are injured
- Completed operations coverage: Covers work after project completion
Request: Certificate of insurance naming you as additionally insured for the project period.
3. How long have you been in business?
While new companies can be competent, established businesses offer:
- Proven track record through multiple hurricane seasons
- Warranty backing: They'll be around if you need warranty service
- Local references you can actually verify
Window Guys of Florida has been serving Palm Beach County and Broward County for over 25 years.
Product and Certification Questions
4. Which manufacturers do you work with?
Quality installers partner with reputable manufacturers:
- PGT Industries - Florida's largest impact window manufacturer
- CGI Windows & Doors - Premium coastal protection
- SIW Impact Windows & Doors - High-performance systems
- Andersen Windows - Industry-leading quality
Ask: Why do you recommend this manufacturer for my home?
5. Are your products Miami-Dade approved?
Miami-Dade approval represents the strictest testing standard:
- Large missile impact test: 9-pound 2x4 fired at 50 fps
- Cyclic pressure testing: 9,000 positive and negative pressure cycles
- NOA (Notice of Acceptance): Documented approval for specific products
Ask: Can you show me the NOA documentation for the windows you're proposing?
Learn more about comparing hurricane impact window industry standards.
6. What testing certifications do these windows hold?
Beyond Miami-Dade, look for:
- ASTM E1886/E1996: Impact resistance standards
- Florida Product Approval: Statewide code compliance
- AAMA certification: Air, water, and structural performance
- ENERGY STAR rating: Energy efficiency certification
Installation Process Questions
7. Who will actually install my windows?
Understand the installation team:
- In-house crews or subcontractors?
- How are installers trained?
- Years of experience for your specific crew?
- Will a supervisor be on-site?
Preferred answer: In-house, trained crews supervised by experienced project managers.
8. Do you pull permits for the installation?
Permit requirements are non-negotiable:
- All impact window installations require permits in Florida
- The contractor should handle permitting as part of the project
- Municipal inspections are required for final approval
Red flag: Any contractor who suggests skipping permits to save money or time.
9. How will you protect my home during installation?
Quality contractors protect your property:
- Floor and furniture coverings
- Dust containment measures
- Daily cleanup procedures
- Protection from weather during multi-day projects
Review our guide on how to prepare your home for installation day.
10. What is your installation timeline?
Understand the complete schedule:
- Lead time for window fabrication: Typically 4-8 weeks
- Installation duration: Usually 1-3 days depending on project size
- Weather contingency plans: What happens if it rains?
- Sequential installation: How many windows are open at once?
Warranty and Support Questions
11. What warranties are included?
Understand all warranty coverage:
| Warranty Type | What It Covers | Typical Duration |
|---|---|---|
| Manufacturer's Limited Lifetime | Glass, frame defects | Lifetime of original owner |
| Glass Breakage | Accidental glass breakage | 5-10 years (if offered) |
| Installation Warranty | Workmanship, water intrusion | 1-10 years |
| Hardware Warranty | Locks, handles, operators | 5-10 years |
Request: Written warranty documentation before signing contracts.
12. How do I file a warranty claim?
Understand the process in advance:
- Who do I contact? (Manufacturer, installer, or both?)
- Response time expectations?
- What documentation is required?
- Service coverage for my area?
13. What happens if there's an issue after installation?
Quality contractors stand behind their work:
- Service department availability
- Response time for urgent issues
- Policy for adjustments after settling
Pricing and Contract Questions
14. What does your quote include?
Ensure your quote covers everything:
- Windows and frames: Exactly which products and sizes
- Removal of old windows: Including disposal
- Interior and exterior trim/finishing
- Permits and inspections
- Hardware and screens
- Cleanup and debris removal
Beware: Vague quotes that leave room for surprise charges.
15. What is your payment schedule?
Industry-standard payment structures:
- Reasonable deposit: 10-30% at contract signing
- Progress payment: Due when windows arrive (optional)
- Final payment: After installation passes inspection
Red flag: Contractors demanding 50%+ upfront or full payment before completion.
Explore financing options for Florida homeowners.
16. Do you offer price matching or adjustments?
Understanding pricing flexibility:
- Are prices negotiable?
- Seasonal promotions?
- Multi-window discounts?
- Referral programs?
Reference and Reputation Questions
17. Can you provide local references?
Request references that are:
- Recent: Within the past 12 months
- Local: In your county or nearby
- Similar scope: Comparable project size
- Verifiable: With permission to contact
Actually call references. Ask about communication, cleanup, and post-installation service.
18. Where can I read reviews?
Check multiple sources:
- Google Reviews: Most comprehensive
- BBB (Better Business Bureau): Complaint history
- Angi/HomeAdvisor: Verified customer reviews
- Florida DBPR: License complaints
19. Have you worked through a major hurricane?
Experience matters:
- How did your installations perform?
- Can you show before/after from past storms?
- Customer testimonials from storm survivors?
Technical Questions
20. How do you ensure proper installation for my specific home?
Ask about their process:
- Site survey and measurements: How thorough?
- Structural assessment: Do they check framing condition?
- Custom solutions: How do they handle unusual openings?
Learn about DIY vs professional window measurements.
21. What installation method do you use?
Installation approaches include:
- Full-frame replacement: Complete removal and replacement
- Pocket/insert installation: New window inside existing frame
- Custom applications: For unusual situations
Understand which is appropriate for your situation.
The Final Checklist
Before signing any contract, confirm:
- ☑ Valid Florida contractor license verified
- ☑ Insurance certificates obtained
- ☑ Written warranty documentation reviewed
- ☑ Detailed, itemized quote received
- ☑ Payment schedule is reasonable
- ☑ References contacted and verified
- ☑ Product certifications confirmed
- ☑ Timeline and expectations documented
Ready for Your Consultation?
Window Guys of Florida welcomes all of these questions and more. We're proud of our customer testimonials and our proven track record throughout South Florida.
Contact us today for a free, no-obligation consultation. Call (561) 598-6295.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I verify a Florida contractor license?
Visit myfloridalicense.com and use the "Verify a License" function. Enter the contractor's name or license number. The database shows license status, type, any disciplinary actions, and insurance information. You can also call the Florida DBPR at 850-487-1395 to verify licenses over the phone.
What's a reasonable deposit for impact window installation?
Industry standard deposits range from 10-30% of the total project cost. This covers the contractor's initial material costs and commitment. Be cautious of contractors demanding 50% or more upfront—this is a red flag. Never pay the full amount before installation is complete and passes inspection.
Should I choose the lowest bid for impact windows?
The lowest bid is rarely the best choice for impact windows. Unusually low bids often indicate: inferior products, subcontracted labor, shortcuts on installation, missing permit costs, or a company that won't be around for warranty service. Compare quotes carefully—ensure they include the same products, services, and warranties. A quality installation protects your family and home for decades.
How long should impact window installation take?
Most residential impact window installations take 1-3 days depending on the number of windows and complexity. Factor in 4-8 weeks lead time for custom window fabrication before installation begins. Quality installers complete work efficiently but never rush—proper installation technique is critical for hurricane protection.
What should I do if I have problems after installation?
First, contact your installer's service department—reputable contractors resolve issues quickly. Document problems with photos and written communication. If the installer is unresponsive, contact the window manufacturer directly. For serious disputes, file complaints with the Florida DBPR and local building department. This is why choosing established, reputable contractors matters.