Hurricane-prone Miami requires homeowners to upgrade their windows with impact-resistant products. These upgrades are essential in protecting homes from severe storm damage and boosting home values.
Coastal cities like Miami, Fort Lauderdale and West Palm Beach are in High Velocity Hurricane Zones, which require lab-tested impact-rated window designs. These requirements drive up installation costs beyond the state average of $1,105 per window.
Locally Manufactured
Buying windows manufactured locally can help support the local economy. In South Miami, manufacturing companies like van Hamond’s Expressed Juice and MakeMIA Makerspace are part of a local industry that’s experienced its share of ups and downs, but is now on the rise again.
When you shop for window installation companies, look for one that offers lengthy warranties on their products and parts. Those that provide longer warranty periods tend to rank higher with EcoWatch. Window installations can be costly, so you want to find a company that gives you a fair price for the work.
For example, Aeroseal is a leading window installer that provides high-efficiency windows. Its windows feature Low-E glass coating and argon gas insulation to reduce energy costs and support the environment. It doesn’t display its prices on its website, but you can get a free quote from its representatives. It also offers a wide variety of replacement options, including casement windows that are hinged on the sides and open outward.
High-Impact Glass
If you live in a hurricane-prone area, choosing impact windows and doors is an intelligent move. They prevent windborne debris generated by severe storms from crashing into your home, which can lead to significant property damage and even serious injuries.
They also provide enhanced security by preventing forced entry attempts. Thieves have a hard time breaking through the tough laminations and thicker glass that make up impact-rated window glass. You can find amazing videos online that show impact glass withstanding abuse from baseball bats, sledgehammers, and crowbars.
When shopping for impact-resistant windows, look for a label that indicates the product meets Miami-Dade and ASTM standards such as Large Missile Impact Level “D” or High Velocity Hurricane Zones. If you’re unsure, ask your installer to confirm the window or door’s impact-resistant rating. The label should also indicate the brand of window and the type of glass within. You should also check for a laminated inner layer.
Local Building Codes
The Florida Building Code has stringent standards that prioritize safety and structural integrity, especially in High-Velocity Hurricane Zones. These requirements include impact-resistant glazing for windows and doors.
The most common way to meet these guidelines is by choosing impact windows with low-E coatings and argon gas fills. These features improve energy efficiency and provide UV protection. Additionally, they align with requirements mandated by insurance companies.
Aside from these benefits, impact-resistant windows also increase home value. Prospective buyers are willing to pay a premium for homes with these features, as they offer peace of mind in the event of severe weather.
Choosing a contractor that specializes in installing impact-resistant windows is essential. This will help you avoid the hassles of dealing with permits, as well as complying with local building codes. A professional consultation can also help you find a reliable contractor at an affordable price. Make sure to compare quotes from multiple contractors to find the best one for your needs.
Avoid Insulated Glass and Vinyl Frames
Miami is home to some of Florida’s toughest high-velocity hurricane zones and residents need impact windows that are built for real storms. Standard windows are prone to cracking, bowing, and breaking under the pressure of strong winds and debris. Investing in impact windows can protect your family and your home from costly repairs, and improve your property value.
Wood frames require extensive maintenance, staining and painting on a regular basis, and they don’t provide the same energy efficiency or insulation as vinyl and fiberglass. Aluminum frames are lightweight and streamlined, but they oxidize quickly and are not as durable as vinyl or fiberglass.
Impact windows use layered glass to minimize solar heat gain, reduce cooling costs, and keep your interiors comfortable. They also reduce outside noise and dampen sounds from traffic, landscaping, and neighbors. Low-E coatings and gas fills (like argon or krypton) between double or triple glazing help further improve energy efficiency. This can significantly lower your utility bills and reduce your carbon footprint.