If you’re ready for a Florida window replacement project, there is a lot to consider during the process. Sometimes it’s easy to overlook the small details. Unfortunately, it’s the small details that can end up costing you a lot of money down the road.
As you’re preparing for your window installation project, be sure to remember these important points.
Window Replacement: Maintenance and Material Considerations
New replacement windows look beautiful when they’re first installed. But what happens to the windows months or even years later?
If you’re not keen on tending to window maintenance year after year, you’ll need to think twice about the frame material.
Vinyl is the best option for frame material for several reasons:
- It’s a low-maintenance material that requires virtually no work at all
- It is resistant to warping, peeling, and rot from moisture damage
- This material is easy to wipe clean as needed
- Vinyl lasts for many years
However, while vinyl is great, aluminum windows are another wonderful consideration. Consider this material for the following reasons:
- Durability: Aluminum is a strong and durable material that can withstand harsh environmental conditions. This makes it particularly well-suited for Florida’s tropical climate, which can include high heat, humidity, and severe storms.
- Corrosion-resistant: Aluminum is highly resistant to rust and corrosion, which is particularly important in coastal areas of Florida where saltwater can be destructive to other materials.
- Thermal Efficiency: Aluminum windows with thermal breaks offer improved energy efficiency, which can be a significant advantage in a hot climate like Florida.
- Lightweight: Aluminum is a relatively light material, making it easier to handle and install than some alternatives. This can potentially reduce labor costs for window replacement.
- Design Flexibility: Aluminum can be easily shaped into virtually any window style.
- Low Maintenance: They don’t need to be painted or sealed regularly, which can save homeowners time and money over the life of the windows.
- Recyclability: Aluminum is one of the most recyclable materials available, making it a more environmentally friendly choice.
Hurricane Resistant Replacement Windows
When you need to upgrade your home’s windows, be sure that you choose hurricane resistant products. There are plenty of reasons why Florida homeowners should choose these windows.
Protection Against Wind Damage
Hurricane windows, also known as impact windows, are designed to withstand the extreme wind pressures caused by hurricanes. They protect your home from damage that could be caused by strong gusts or sustained high winds.
Prevent Water Damage
Hurricane windows are designed to prevent rain and seawater from entering your home, even under hurricane conditions. This can significantly reduce the potential for water damage during a storm.
Withstand Impact from Debris
One of the most significant threats during a hurricane is flying debris. Hurricane windows are designed to withstand impacts from this debris without shattering, keeping your home and its occupants safe.
Safety and Security
In addition to their hurricane-resistant properties, these windows also offer enhanced safety and security features. The same design that makes them resistant to wind and debris also makes them difficult to break for intruders.
Energy Efficiency
Many hurricane windows feature double glazing or other energy-efficient features that can help reduce your cooling and heating bills. This is especially important in Florida’s hot climate.
Peace of Mind
Above all, hurricane windows provide peace of mind knowing that your home is as prepared as it can be to withstand the impacts of a hurricane or other severe weather events.
Maximize Energy Savings with Energy Star Certification
All window companies can claim to have energy efficient windows. However, an Energy Star certification can determine if the windows are top-notch when it comes to energy savings. You’ll typically find the Energy Star seal on the window label. You may also find a removal blue seal on the glass of the window.
Characteristics of Energy Efficient Window Replacement
High-quality replacement windows provide energy efficiency, reducing your utility bills and lessening your environmental impact. By understanding the energy-efficient characteristics of replacement windows, you can make an informed decision that adds value and comfort to your home.
- Double Glazing: Double-glazed windows create an insulating barrier that helps keep your home cool, increasing the energy efficiency of your home.
- Low-E Glass: Low emissivity (Low-E) glass has a special coating that reflects heat away from your house, optimizing thermal control.
- Gas Fills: Some replacement windows feature spaces between panes filled with inert gases like argon or krypton. These gases provide better insulation than regular air due to their lower thermal conductivity.
- Thermal Breaks: Windows with thermal breaks have an insulating plastic section within the frame to reduce heat transfer, which enhances energy efficiency.
- Sealing and Weatherstripping: Good sealing and weatherstripping prevent drafts, and enhance overall energy efficiency.
Choose Quality Window Replacement as a Long-term Investment
The cost of replacement windows is all over the map. If you’re looking for the cheapest window on the market, keep in mind that new windows are an investment. Installing poor quality windows can yield subpar energy savings, with the potential of replacing the windows again in just a few short years.
Window Installer Qualifications
The most expensive windows won’t do you any good if they’re improperly installed. Installation is just as important as the window product you pick—and maybe even moreso.
Be sure to find out if your window installers are certified and experienced at their crafts. This will give you confidence that the job is done correctly and on time.
Decorative Upgrades
Homeowners can forget about all of the customizable upgrades for new replacement windows. While new windows on their own are beautiful, their appearance is taken to another level with the addition of decorative glass and custom grid systems.
These upgrades come in a variety of options, including rain glass for extra privacy. Floral and prairie are two additional popular glass patterns that enhance curb appeal. Lastly, grids add a traditional touch to even the most modern homes.
Get Window Replacement in Florida from Storm Pro Window & Door
At Storm Pro Window & Door, we help homeowners remember all of the important details with Florida window replacement and installation. Contact us when you’re ready to move forward with your new project.