Choosing an Impact Window Company: A Comprehensive Guide for Homeowners
When it comes to protecting your home from hurricanes, severe storms, and forced entry, impact windows are one of the most effective upgrades available. However, the performance of impact windows depends just as much on the company installing them as the product itself. Choosing the right impact window company is a critical decision that affects safety, compliance, long term durability, and overall value.
This guide walks homeowners through the most important factors to consider when selecting an impact window company, helping you avoid costly mistakes and ensure your investment delivers lasting protection.
Understanding Impact Windows
Impact windows, often referred to as hurricane windows, are engineered to withstand extreme weather conditions. They are constructed using laminated glass layers bonded together with a durable interlayer, typically polyvinyl butyral. This design allows the glass to remain intact even when struck by debris, preventing dangerous pressure changes and water intrusion.
In addition to storm protection, impact windows offer benefits such as noise reduction, improved energy efficiency, ultraviolet protection, and enhanced security. However, these benefits are only realized when windows are properly selected and professionally installed.
Why Choosing the Right Impact Window Company Matters
Impact windows are a long term investment, often expected to last decades. Choosing an inexperienced or unqualified installer can lead to improper anchoring, water leaks, failed inspections, voided warranties, and reduced storm performance.
A reputable impact window company ensures products meet local building codes, installs them according to manufacturer specifications, and stands behind their work.
Key Factors to Consider When Choosing an Impact Window Company
1. Licensing and Insurance
The first step in evaluating any impact window company is verifying proper licensing. In Florida, window installers must hold a valid state license issued by the Department of Business and Professional Regulation. This ensures the company meets minimum competency and regulatory standards.
Insurance is equally important. A qualified impact window company should carry both liability insurance and workers compensation coverage. This protects homeowners from financial risk in the event of property damage or on site injuries.
2. Quality of Products Offered
Not all impact windows are created equal. Product quality varies by manufacturer, glass performance ratings, and frame construction. Reputable companies work with proven manufacturers known for durability and compliance with Florida building standards.
High quality impact windows often include features such as laminated impact resistant glass, reinforced frames, energy efficient coatings, and tested performance ratings. The right company will help homeowners understand product differences rather than pushing a single option.
3. Knowledge of Local Building Codes
Impact window requirements vary by location. Some areas require higher wind load ratings or additional certifications depending on exposure and structure type.
An experienced impact window company understands local permitting requirements, inspection processes, and code compliance. This ensures installations pass inspection and perform as intended during severe weather.
4. Installation Standards and Process
Even the highest quality impact windows will fail if installed incorrectly. Proper installation involves precise measurements, correct anchoring methods, waterproofing, and sealing.
A professional impact window company should be able to clearly explain their installation process, timelines, and quality control measures. In house installation teams often provide better consistency than subcontracted labor.
5. Warranty Coverage
Impact windows are a significant investment, and warranty coverage is an important consideration. Homeowners should ask about both product warranties and installation warranties.
Strong warranties demonstrate confidence in both the materials and workmanship. Always review warranty terms carefully to understand coverage duration and limitations.
6. Customer Reviews and Reputation
A company’s reputation provides valuable insight into its reliability and service quality. Online reviews, testimonials, and referrals can help homeowners identify patterns related to communication, workmanship, and follow through.
Consistently positive feedback and a history of completed projects are indicators of a trustworthy impact window company.
Questions Homeowners Should Ask Before Hiring
Before signing a contract, homeowners should ask key questions such as:
- Are you licensed and insured in Florida?
- Which impact window brands do you install and why?
- Do you handle permits and inspections?
- Who performs the installation?
- What warranties are included?
Clear, confident answers are a strong sign of professionalism.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
One common mistake homeowners make is choosing the lowest price without evaluating quality or experience. Lower pricing may reflect lower performance products or incomplete installation practices.
Another mistake is failing to verify licensing or insurance. This can expose homeowners to significant risk if problems arise.
Why Homeowners Choose Broward Impact Windows and Doors
For homeowners in South Florida, Broward Impact Windows and Doors offers a proven combination of experience, product quality, and professional installation.
Our team understands local building codes, permitting requirements, and regional storm risks. We work with trusted manufacturers to provide impact windows designed for South Florida conditions.
From consultation through installation and final inspection, Broward Impact prioritizes clear communication, quality workmanship, and long term customer satisfaction.
Frequently Asked Questions About Choosing an Impact Window Company
Should I choose a local impact window company?
Local companies are often more familiar with regional building codes, permitting processes, and climate specific requirements.
Is product quality or installation more important?
Both are critical. High quality windows must be properly installed to perform as designed.
How long does impact window installation take?
Most residential installations are completed within one to two days, depending on project size.
Do impact window companies handle permits?
Reputable companies typically manage permits and inspections as part of the installation process.
Are warranties transferable?
Some warranties are transferable to new homeowners, which can add resale value. Terms vary by manufacturer.
Final Thoughts
Choosing the right impact window company is just as important as selecting the right product. By focusing on licensing, product quality, installation standards, warranties, and reputation, homeowners can make confident decisions that protect their investment.
If you are in South Florida and looking for a reliable, experienced impact window company, contact Broward Impact Windows and Doors at 954-922-0606 for a free consultation. Our team is ready to help you safeguard your home with impact windows designed to perform when it matters most.
