Anyone have experience with hurricane proof windows?  Any ideas where to find the best value?

thanks
Catvader

I guess I'd like to know if they look any different than regular windows.  I'm interested in putting them in a beach house and don't want the view to be ruined.  Are they still optically clear (they don't look fuzzy, yellow, or anything strange)?  Also, is construction the same or do they have a special installation method?  value = works as well as the big name brands (Andersen) but doesn't cost as much?

Thanks

Impact windows should not look any diiferent than "regular" windows in normal viewing.   They will not be hazy or yellow or have other viewing differences.

All of the major window manufacturers carry impact lines, and they can be pricy.  Value can be a relative term.  Your best bet would be to take a look at different windows available and see what you think of them.  Keeping in mind apples to apples comparison.

Installation of impact windows is very specific and incorrect installation can void the warranty and even worse, it can impact (pun intended) unit safety performance.

 

 

we like Simonton "Storm Breaker" windows, Vinyl frame - insulated glass, installation is similar, cost is 3 x as regular, and units are very heavy

check out the Heinzmann line by European windows @ www.europeanwindows.com

My best friends new house has PGT windows and sliding doors. Great looking product with a superior impact rating. He's very happy and convinced me to use them on my new house.

Stay away from PGT, I have heard they have many problems with frames

Impact resistant windows will run 2 to 3 times the cost of regular windows. You should find out what wind speed zone you're in and what exposure class you're in. The IRC code allows the substitution of storm panels or of designing the whole structure as "partially enclosed. Which of the three ways to go can be a huge $$, safety, security and insurance issue so proceed carefully.

Value is in the eye of the beholder ... seriously, its like buying anything else. If budget is your most important criteria there is a line of Impact Window manufacturers for that, then one for energy efficency, one for this and one for that. Like anything else, the more items you put in your "cart", then the more you are going to spend.

Personally, I think ALMOST any window approved by Miami-Dade County standards can offer great value. That includes PGT (although I also think they are over priced), Florida's Best, Lawson's Hurricane Guard, Simonton, IWC, etc. But it depends on what you want. Is budget your primary concern? After that, there are differences in window construction, such as balance rods, locks, etc. Do you want thermal insulated glass? Vinyl frames? Up, Up and away in what you can spend.

And like Oberon mentioned, your installer is very critical too. Whats the point of spending thousands on your windows if they are not installed correctly. And a novice may not notice the installation problems for a long time, well after a warranty is completely gone.

Harry R. Artt
Harry Artt Construction, LLC
954-687-6060
arttofIMPACTWINDOWS dot com