Hurricane Window Installation: 7 Powerful Benefits in 2025
Protecting Your Home: The Essential Guide to Hurricane Window Installation
Hurricane window installation is a critical investment for homeowners in storm-prone regions, providing protection against extreme weather while offering additional benefits like energy savings and improved security.
Quick Guide to Hurricane Window Installation:
- Measure accurately – Allow ½ inch less than rough opening dimensions
- Obtain permits – $50-$200 depending on locality
- Remove existing windows carefully
- Apply flashing tape to the sill with 1″ overlap
- Set and level the hurricane window in the opening
- Secure with fasteners – stainless steel near coast, galvanized inland
- Seal gaps with foam backer rod and silicone caulk
- Expect 2-3 hours per window for professional installation
When Hurricane Ian devastated parts of Florida in 2022, homes with properly installed impact windows experienced significantly less damage. This wasn’t coincidence—it was engineering at work.
Hurricane windows are designed to withstand wind speeds up to 200 mph and resist impacts from flying debris during Category 5 storms. Unlike standard windows, these specialized units feature laminated glass with polymer interlayers that hold shattered pieces together, maintaining the building envelope even when struck.
The investment is substantial—with costs ranging from $4,627 to $20,440 for a whole-house installation—but the returns are compelling. Homeowners typically see a 75-85% ROI through increased property values, insurance premium reductions of up to 25%, and monthly energy savings approaching 31% when replacing single-pane windows.
“Installing hurricane impact windows is one of the best investments you will make in your home,” according to industry experts who note that beyond storm protection, these windows also block up to 99.7% of harmful UV rays and significantly reduce outside noise.
For coastal residents like those in Florida, properly installed hurricane windows eliminate the hassle of putting up and taking down storm shutters each season, providing year-round protection with a single solution.
Understanding Hurricane, Impact & Standard Windows
Ever wondered why some windows survive hurricanes while others shatter at the first gust? The difference lies in their design, materials, and engineering – and these differences can literally save your home during storm season.
Standard windows serve us well for everyday life – they let in light, provide ventilation, and frame our view of the world outside. But when hurricane-force winds come calling, these ordinary windows become dangerous weak points. They simply weren’t built to handle extreme weather conditions. When standard glass breaks during a storm, it creates dangerous flying shards and allows sudden pressure changes that can literally blow your roof off.
Hurricane windows, on the other hand, are purpose-built defenders against nature’s fury. These specialized sentinels must pass incredibly tough tests before they can protect your home. Imagine a 2×4 wooden beam being fired at a window at 50 feet per second – not once, but three times in different spots! That’s exactly what the ASTM E1996 standard requires these windows to withstand.
“Impact windows are naturally resistant to blunt force and improve home insulation,” as industry experts point out. This impressive strength comes from their unique construction.
Most hurricane-rated windows use laminated glass – essentially a glass sandwich with a tough polymer filling. When something hits this glass, it might crack, but the special interlayer holds everything together, maintaining your home’s protective envelope. This clever technology actually began in the automotive industry back in the 1930s before making its way into our homes.
Tempered glass also plays a role in some hurricane window designs. This specially heat-treated glass is about four times stronger than regular glass and breaks into small, relatively harmless pieces rather than dangerous shards.
It’s worth noting that while all impact windows can be called hurricane windows, not all hurricane windows have the multiple laminated layers needed to resist large flying debris. This distinction matters tremendously when choosing the right protection for your specific location and risk level.
The Science Behind Impact Resistance
The remarkable durability of hurricane impact windows isn’t magic – it’s materials science at work. The secret weapon is the polymer interlayer bonding the glass panes together.
Two main interlayer materials dominate today’s market:
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Polyvinyl butyral (PVB): This flexible plastic film has faithfully served as the industry standard for decades. When sandwiched between glass layers, PVB creates a strong bond that absorbs impact energy while remaining crystal clear. It performs particularly well in Florida’s warm climate.
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Ethylene-vinyl acetate (EVA): A newer alternative offering exceptional clarity and UV protection. EVA handles temperature fluctuations better and tends to resist moisture infiltration more effectively over the years.
The thickness of these interlayers varies depending on your location. Windows designed for high-velocity hurricane zones (HVHZ) like Miami-Dade County typically feature thicker, stronger interlayers than those designed for areas with lower risk.
The window frame and anchoring system are just as crucial as the glass itself. During a hurricane, your windows face not just direct impacts but also intense pressure cycling as winds gust and change direction. Before earning their hurricane rating, these windows endure thousands of positive and negative pressure cycles to prove they can handle these conditions.
“The polymer interlayer in laminated glass holds shattered pieces in place, maintaining a barrier even if the glass cracks,” as scientific research on polymer interlayers confirms. This is why properly installed hurricane windows continue protecting your home even when damaged.
A window’s storm resistance depends not just on quality materials but on expert installation. As one installer with over 17 years of experience notes, “Installation quality directly affects a window’s performance rating.” Details matter enormously – anchor placement, gap size, edge distance, and anchor count all influence how well your windows will perform when a real storm hits.
The Multi-Layered Benefits of Upgrading
When you invest in hurricane window installation, you’re getting so much more than just storm protection. Think of it as a multi-layered gift that keeps on giving long after hurricane season ends.
First and foremost, let’s talk about what brings most homeowners to consider these windows: storm protection. Gone are the days of scrambling to put up plywood or metal shutters when a storm warning hits. Your hurricane windows stand guard 24/7, ready to withstand flying debris and winds up to 200 mph – that’s Category 5 hurricane strength!
A homeowner from Fort Myers shared a story that really brings this home: “While my neighbors were dealing with extensive damage from broken windows after Hurricane Ian, our hurricane impact windows didn’t budge. That single storm made the entire investment worthwhile.”
But here’s where it gets interesting – these windows double as a security system for your home. The same laminated glass technology that keeps hurricane debris out also keeps potential intruders at bay. Security experts confirm that impact windows significantly deter break-ins because they resist blunt force so effectively. Even when struck with heavy objects, the glass holds together, making would-be burglars think twice.
Real-World Savings & Insurance Perks
The financial benefits of hurricane window installation might surprise you – they certainly add up quickly!
Let’s start with your monthly energy bills. EnergyStar rated hurricane windows can help Florida homeowners save up to 31% on energy costs when replacing old single-pane windows. This impressive saving comes from superior insulation and specialized low-E coatings that reflect heat while still letting in plenty of natural light.
Your insurance company will also thank you (and reward you) for reducing their risk. Most Florida insurers offer premium discounts – sometimes as high as 25% off windstorm premiums – when you install hurricane windows throughout your home. Over time, these savings significantly offset your initial installation costs.
Tax benefits sweeten the deal even further. Thanks to the Bipartisan Budget Act of 2018, you may qualify for tax credits up to $200 per window when installing energy-efficient impact windows.
Florida residents have an additional advantage through the My Safe Florida Home Program. This fantastic initiative provides matching grants up to $10,000 for approved hurricane protection improvements, including impact windows. As one happy homeowner put it: “The grant matched at a 2:1 rate up to $10,000 max, which dramatically reduced what we paid out-of-pocket.”
Looking at long-term value, these windows typically deliver a 75-85% return on investment through increased property values. Real estate professionals consistently report that homes with hurricane impact windows not only sell for more but also move off the market faster in coastal areas.
Everyday Comfort Gains
The everyday benefits of hurricane windows might be less dramatic than surviving a Category 5 storm, but they’ll impact your quality of life every single day.
Noise reduction tops the list of unexpected pleasures for many homeowners. The same laminated glass that stands up to hurricane-force winds also creates a remarkable sound barrier. Street noise, traffic, barking dogs, and even that neighbor’s lawn mower suddenly become much less intrusive.
One Florida resident described it perfectly: “After installing impact windows, we don’t even hear the UPS truck that drives by every morning anymore. The quietness in our home is truly remarkable.”
UV protection is another significant advantage that pays dividends year after year. Hurricane impact windows can block up to 99.7% of harmful ultraviolet rays. This means your furniture, hardwood floors, artwork, and fabrics won’t fade or deteriorate from sun exposure. When you consider the cost of replacing or reupholstering furniture, this UV protection represents substantial long-term savings.
Temperature stability improves dramatically with hurricane windows. Their superior insulation properties maintain consistent indoor temperatures and eliminate those annoying hot and cold spots near windows. Your home feels more comfortable throughout, and your air conditioner doesn’t have to work overtime during Florida’s hottest months.
When you combine storm protection, improved security, financial benefits, and everyday comfort improvements, hurricane impact windows stand out as one of the smartest home upgrades available for Florida homeowners. They transform your house into a safer, quieter, more energy-efficient, and more valuable home.
Anatomy, Ratings & Cost Factors
When you’re planning a hurricane window installation, understanding what goes into these specialized windows helps you make choices that protect your home and fit your budget.
Think of hurricane windows as a system of carefully engineered parts working together. The frame might be aluminum (great for coastal homes), vinyl (energy-efficient and budget-friendly), traditional wood (beautiful but needs more maintenance), or composite (the premium option). The glass itself consists of multiple layers with special PVB or EVA interlayers that hold everything together during impacts. Even the hardware—hinges, locks, and handles—is beefed up for storm conditions, while improved weatherstripping creates a superior seal against wind-driven rain.
Your choice of frame material significantly affects both performance and what you’ll pay:
| Frame Material | Cost Range | Lifespan | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Aluminum | $90-$290 | Up to 45 years | Coastal areas, strength, low maintenance |
| Vinyl | $100-$300 | 20-40 years | Energy efficiency, affordability |
| Wood | $175-$400 | 10-30 years | Traditional aesthetics, inland areas |
| Composite | $300-$500 | 30-50 years | Maximum durability, premium appearance |
When shopping for hurricane windows, you’ll encounter various ratings that tell you how well they’ll protect your home. Look for the Design Pressure (DP) Rating which indicates how much wind pressure the window can handle. The gold standard is Miami-Dade County Approval—if a window passes these rigorous tests, it’s ready for serious storms. For energy performance, check the NFRC Label and Energy Star Certification, which tell you how efficiently the window will help control your home’s temperature and reduce energy bills.
The total cost of hurricane window installation goes beyond just the windows themselves. A typical installation includes the window units ($100-$2,100 each depending on size and features), professional labor ($80-$400 per window), permits ($50-$200), disposal of old windows, and materials like flashing and sealants. Most homeowners invest between $4,627 and $20,440 for a whole-house installation of up to 10 windows.
As one of our experienced installers often tells customers, “Sometimes cheap costs you twice as much.” This is especially true with hurricane protection—cutting corners on materials or installation could mean failure when you need protection most.
Choosing the Right Style
The good news about hurricane windows? Protection doesn’t mean sacrificing beauty. Modern impact windows come in virtually every style and configuration you’d find in standard windows, so your home can stay true to its architectural character while gaining serious storm resistance.
Single-hung windows offer the most economical option, with a fixed upper sash and a lower one that slides up for ventilation. Their close cousins, double-hung windows, allow both sashes to move, giving you more ventilation options and making cleaning easier.
If you’re looking for maximum ventilation, consider casement windows that swing outward like a door, creating a tight seal when closed. For uninterrupted views, picture windows provide a fixed panel that maximizes light and scenery. Sliding windows move horizontally instead of vertically—perfect for spaces where an outward-swinging window wouldn’t work.
Don’t think you’re limited to rectangles, either. Architectural shapes like circles, arches, and trapezoids can add distinctive design elements while still providing hurricane protection. Even sliding glass doors come in impact-rated versions that maintain your patio views while standing up to storm conditions.
“Homeowners appreciate impact windows for their aesthetic appeal and virtually no maintenance requirements,” notes one of our design professionals. Thanks to modern manufacturing techniques, today’s impact windows feature slimmer frames and larger glass areas than earlier generations, enhancing rather than detracting from your home’s appearance.
At Access Doors & Windows, we help homeowners across Florida—from Boca Raton to Fort Myers—select window styles that complement their home’s architecture while providing maximum storm protection. Our goal is simple: improve your home’s appearance while adding the safety features that let you sleep soundly during storm season.
Hurricane Window Installation: Step-by-Step Process
The hurricane window installation process is a carefully choreographed dance of precision and expertise. When done correctly, it transforms your home into a fortress against nature’s fury while enhancing its beauty and efficiency.
Let’s walk through how the professionals at Access Doors & Windows turn your vulnerable openings into hurricane-resistant shields:
First comes the pre-installation assessment, where experts evaluate your existing windows, wall structure, and specific requirements. This critical step ensures the perfect match between your home’s needs and the hurricane windows selected.
Precise measurements follow—a step that can make or break your installation. Professionals typically measure the rough opening and select windows about ½ inch smaller in both dimensions, creating that sweet spot for proper fitting and adjustment without being too tight or too loose.
Before any physical work begins, proper permits must be secured. These typically range from $50 to $200 depending on your Florida location. While paperwork isn’t exciting, it’s essential for ensuring your installation meets all local building requirements.
On installation day, the team prepares your home by laying protective coverings and establishing clean work zones. Your home deserves respect during this change! Next comes the careful removal of existing windows, a process requiring particular finesse in older homes where windows may have been painted or caulked in place over decades.
With the opening exposed, professionals inspect for any hidden damage or rot that needs addressing before the new window goes in. Then comes a crucial weatherproofing step—application of water-resistive barriers cut at precise 45° angles and properly folded to create a waterproof shield.
The application of flashing tape to the sill follows a specific technique: two overlapping strips with exact measurements to ensure water has no path inside your home. This attention to detail separates amateur work from professional hurricane window installation.
With the opening prepared, the new hurricane window is carefully positioned. Using levels, installers ensure perfect horizontal and vertical alignment—because even a slight tilt can compromise performance during a storm. Strategic shimming at key points maintains proper spacing and support, with 1-inch wide shims typically placed ½ inch from each edge.
Securing the window comes next, using either the nailing fin method or installation clips depending on window type. For coastal installations, stainless steel fasteners resist corrosion; inland areas may use galvanized screws for adequate protection at lower cost.
The sealing process involves applying foam backer rod and high-quality silicone caulk around the perimeter, creating a weathertight seal that keeps water and wind at bay. Interior and exterior trim complete the aesthetic finish, making your hurricane windows look like they’ve always been part of your home’s design.
Before considering the job complete, each window undergoes testing for proper operation and thorough inspection for quality assurance. The work area is then carefully cleaned, removing all debris and leaving your home in pristine condition.
The entire process typically takes 2-3 hours per window for professional installation. Most residential projects can be completed within 1-5 days, depending on the number of windows being replaced.
This methodical approach ensures your hurricane window installation delivers the full protection and performance you’re investing in—peace of mind that comes from knowing every detail has been handled with expertise and care.
DIY vs Professional Hurricane Window Installation
While the idea of saving money with a DIY hurricane window installation might seem appealing, it’s worth weighing the considerable challenges against the benefits of professional installation.
If you’re handy and determined to tackle this project yourself, be prepared with the right tools: carpenter’s level, tape measure, caulking gun, drill/driver with appropriate bits, flashing tape, shims, utility knife, and proper safety equipment. Don’t forget to enlist a helper—these windows are heavy and awkward to position alone!
The DIY process follows the same steps outlined above, but typically takes 4-6 hours per window for someone without specialized experience. As one brave DIYer shared: “Setting up impact-resistant windows is similar to any framed window setup, but the precision required for proper hurricane protection makes it much more challenging.”
However, there are compelling reasons why professional installation is strongly recommended for hurricane windows. Most manufacturers void warranties if windows aren’t professionally installed by authorized technicians—a serious consideration when you’re making such a significant investment.
Code compliance is another major factor. Professionals understand local Florida building codes and ensure installations meet all requirements for hurricane zones. As one installer with over 10 years of experience notes, “Installation quality directly affects a window’s performance rating.” Details like anchor placement, gap size, edge distance, and anchor count all influence how well your windows will perform during an actual storm.
There’s also the liability aspect to consider. Properly installed hurricane windows are a life-safety feature. Professional installation includes liability coverage if anything goes wrong—protection you don’t have with DIY work.
Finally, there’s the time factor. What might take a DIYer several weekends can be completed by professionals in a fraction of the time, getting your home protected faster and with less disruption to your life.
Building-Code Compliance for Hurricane Window Installation in Florida
Hurricane window installation in Florida isn’t just about protection—it’s about meeting some of the nation’s strictest building codes, developed after devastating storms like Hurricane Andrew taught hard lessons about inadequate construction standards.
The Florida Building Code (FBC) creates different requirements based on your home’s location. If you’re in Miami-Dade or Broward counties, you’re in what’s called a High-Velocity Hurricane Zone (HVHZ), requiring windows that can withstand impacts from large missiles (essentially, a 9-pound 2×4 piece of lumber) at higher speeds.
In Wind-Borne Debris Regions—areas where design wind speeds are 120 mph or greater, or exceeding 110 mph within one mile of the coast—impact protection is required, though testing standards may differ slightly from HVHZ areas. Even regions outside these designated areas have minimum performance requirements for window installation.
Your new windows must have Florida Product Approval or Miami-Dade Notice of Acceptance (NOA). They must also be rated for the specific design pressures calculated for your home’s location, height, and surrounding terrain. The installation itself must follow specific guidelines for fastener types, quantities, and spacing based on the window’s approval documents.
The permit process typically involves submitting an application with product specifications and installation details, followed by plan review to verify code compliance. After permit issuance comes the actual installation, followed by inspections—usually both a rough inspection before interior finishes and a final inspection.
“Anchor windows at the manufacturer-specified edge distances and spacings,” advises one building inspector. “Maintain minimal gap tolerances around the frame to preserve impact ratings.”
Navigating these regulations can be daunting, which is why many homeowners appreciate that Access Doors & Windows handles the entire permitting process in all Florida counties we serve, including Palm Beach, Broward, Lee, Charlotte, Pinellas, Hillsborough, Manatee, and Sarasota counties. Our familiarity with local code requirements ensures smooth approval and inspection processes, taking one more worry off your plate.
Finding the Right Installer, Financing & After-Care
Finding the perfect partner for your hurricane window installation isn’t just about getting quotes—it’s about finding professionals who’ll treat your home as if it were their own. After all, these windows are protecting what matters most to you.
When searching for the right installer, start by checking their credentials. Any reputable Florida contractor should proudly display their license number and provide proof of both liability insurance and workers’ compensation coverage. This isn’t just paperwork—it’s your protection against potential problems down the road.
Manufacturer certifications speak volumes about an installer’s expertise. When installers are factory-authorized, it means they’ve completed specialized training directly from the window manufacturers. At Access Doors & Windows, our teams are certified by leading brands like PGT Windows & Doors and CGI Windows, ensuring we install their products exactly as designed.
“The difference between a good installation and a great one often comes down to experience,” explains one of our veteran installers. Look for companies with a proven track record specifically in hurricane protection, not just general window work. Ask potential installers how many hurricane window projects they complete annually—their answer will tell you a lot.
Don’t skip checking references and reviews. A reputable installer should be happy to provide contacts of previous customers or point you toward their online reviews. Photos of completed work can also help you visualize the finished product in your own home.
As a military family-owned business serving Florida’s east and west coasts, we’ve built our reputation on clear communication and honest dealing. We believe detailed quotes aren’t just courteous—they’re essential. Your estimate should clearly outline materials, labor costs, project timeline, and warranty information without hidden charges.
Financing Options That Make Protection Affordable
Making your home safer shouldn’t break the bank. Fortunately, several financing paths can help make hurricane window installation more budget-friendly.
PACE (Property Assessed Clean Energy) financing has become increasingly popular among Florida homeowners. This program allows you to finance your hurricane windows through an assessment on your property tax bill, often with no money down and payments spread over many years.
Home equity options provide another avenue, with many homeowners leveraging their property’s value through loans or lines of credit that typically offer favorable interest rates for significant home improvements like impact windows.
The My Safe Florida Home Program represents a valuable opportunity for qualifying homeowners. This state initiative provides matching grants up to $10,000 for approved hurricane mitigation improvements. One delighted homeowner told us, “The grant matched at a 2:1 rate up to $10,000 max, which turned our $15,000 project into just a $5,000 out-of-pocket expense.”
Don’t overlook manufacturer financing programs, which often feature competitive rates and convenient application processes. Many of our customers appreciate these streamlined options that don’t require additional paperwork with their bank.
While not technically financing, insurance premium reductions can significantly offset your investment over time. Many Florida insurers offer substantial discounts—sometimes up to 25% off windstorm premiums—when hurricane windows are properly installed throughout your home.
Keeping Your Investment Protected
Your new hurricane windows represent a significant investment in your home’s safety and value. Proper maintenance ensures they’ll continue to perform when you need them most.
Regular cleaning is simpler than you might think. Use mild soap, warm water and a soft cloth to clean frames and glass, avoiding harsh chemicals or abrasive cleaners that could damage protective coatings or finishes. For stubborn spots, a mixture of vinegar and water often works wonders without harming the window.
“The most common maintenance mistake I see is neglecting the tracks and hardware,” notes our service manager. Inspect weatherstripping annually for signs of wear or damage, and apply a silicone spray to hinges, locks, and sliding tracks to keep everything operating smoothly.
After particularly heavy storms, take a few minutes to check for water intrusion around window sills. Early detection of small issues can prevent costly repairs later. If you spot anything concerning, don’t hesitate to contact your installer.
For complete peace of mind, consider having your windows professionally inspected every 3-5 years. This preventative step can identify potential issues before they become problems and ensure your hurricane protection remains at peak performance.
With proper care, quality hurricane windows from trusted manufacturers can protect your home for decades—often 30 years or more for premium products. That’s not just protection; it’s generational peace of mind.
Warranties & Guarantees Demystified
Understanding what’s covered (and what’s not) in your hurricane window installation warranty package can save you potential headaches down the road. Most quality hurricane windows come with multi-layered protection plans.
Manufacturer warranties typically cover different components for varying periods. Glass coverage generally ranges from 10 years to lifetime, protecting against seal failures and spontaneous breakage (though not usually covering breakage from impacts during normal use). When a warranty claims “lifetime,” be sure to clarify whether that means your lifetime or the expected lifetime of the product.
Frame warranties usually extend 20-25 years, covering defects in materials and workmanship that might compromise performance. Aluminum frames typically carry longer coverage than vinyl or wood options due to their superior durability in Florida’s demanding climate.
Hardware elements like locks, hinges and operators generally come with 5-10 year protection, while painted or specialized finishes usually include 10-15 year guarantees against peeling, flaking or excessive fading.
Separate from these manufacturer protections, your installer should provide their own warranty covering the installation work itself. At Access Doors & Windows, our installation warranty addresses issues like water intrusion due to improper sealing or operation problems resulting from incorrect installation.
Warranty transferability adds significant value when selling your home. “When we sold our house three years after installing hurricane windows, the transferable warranty was actually a selling point that helped us command a higher price,” shared one Florida homeowner.
Pay close attention to warranty registration requirements—many manufacturers require registration within 30-90 days of installation to activate full coverage. Similarly, most warranties include maintenance requirements that must be followed to keep your coverage valid.
Before any issue arises, familiarize yourself with the claim process. Knowing exactly who to contact and what documentation you’ll need makes the experience much smoother if you ever need warranty service. One homeowner recounted, “When we had a seal failure three years after installation, the warranty process was straightforward. The manufacturer sent a technician who replaced the glass unit at no cost to us.”
Professional installation isn’t just about quality work—it’s about protecting your warranty coverage. DIY installations almost always void manufacturer warranties, which is yet another reason to choose experienced professionals for your hurricane window installation.
Frequently Asked Questions about Hurricane Window Installation
Do I really need hurricane windows if I already have shutters?
It’s a question I hear a lot from Florida homeowners: “I’ve got shutters – why invest in impact windows too?”
While hurricane shutters certainly provide protection, they come with significant limitations. Think about it – you need to physically install them before each storm and remove them afterward. If you’re traveling when a hurricane warning hits, or if you have mobility issues, this can be a real problem.
Hurricane impact windows solve these challenges while offering benefits you’ll enjoy every single day – not just during storm season.
“My neighbors were scrambling to install shutters as Hurricane Ian approached,” shared one of our Fort Myers customers. “Some couldn’t find help in time. We simply closed and locked our impact windows and were ready.”
The advantages go far beyond convenience. Your impact windows work silently year-round, lowering energy bills, reducing outside noise, and blocking harmful UV rays that fade furniture and flooring. They also provide 24/7 security against break-ins – something shutters only offer when deployed.
That said, some homeowners in particularly vulnerable coastal areas choose both hurricane windows and shutters for maximum peace of mind. Your decision should reflect your specific location, risk comfort level, and lifestyle needs.
How long does a whole-house installation take?
When planning your hurricane window installation, timing matters – especially if you’re approaching storm season.
For an average home with 10-15 windows, our professional installation teams typically complete the entire process in 2-3 days. Here’s what that timeline usually looks like:
Day 1: We remove your old windows and install about half of your new impact windows
Day 2: We install the remaining windows
Day 3: We complete finishing work, clean up thoroughly, and conduct our final quality inspection
Several factors can influence this timeline. Homes with more windows, difficult-to-access second-story installations, or older construction that requires additional preparation work may need extra time. Weather conditions can also affect our schedule – we won’t compromise quality by rushing installation during rain or extreme heat.
One important note: lead times before installation can vary significantly, especially after major storms when demand surges. Following Hurricane Ian, some Florida homeowners waited 9+ months for installation due to overwhelming demand. It’s always best to plan your hurricane window installation well before storm season begins.
Will impact windows increase my property value in non-coastal areas?
You might be surprised to learn that hurricane impact windows add significant value to homes throughout Florida – not just in coastal communities.
While the ROI is most dramatic in high-risk coastal zones (typically 80-85%), inland homeowners still see substantial returns (around 75%) for several compelling reasons.
The superior insulation properties of impact windows reduce monthly energy bills regardless of your home’s location. Many of our customers in Orlando and other inland areas report noticeable drops in their cooling costs after installation.
A realtor specializing in central Florida properties told us: “Even in Orlando, homes with impact windows typically sell faster and at a premium compared to similar homes without them. Buyers increasingly understand the multiple benefits these windows provide beyond just hurricane protection.”
The noise reduction benefit is particularly valuable in urban and suburban settings, where traffic, construction, and neighborhood sounds can be disruptive. The improved security against break-ins appeals to homeowners everywhere, while the UV protection prevents expensive furniture and flooring from fading in Florida’s abundant sunshine.
Many inland insurance companies still offer meaningful discounts for impact-resistant features, which creates ongoing savings that compound over time. For homeowners planning to stay put for several years, these monthly savings combined with eventual resale value make hurricane window installation a smart investment regardless of how far you live from the coast.
Conclusion
Hurricane window installation represents far more than just storm protection—it’s a comprehensive upgrade that transforms your home’s safety, efficiency, comfort, and value. As extreme weather events become more frequent across Florida, the peace of mind that comes from knowing your family and belongings are protected becomes truly priceless.
The beauty of hurricane windows lies in their multi-layered benefits that work for you every single day, not just during storm season. Your home becomes a safer haven with always-ready protection that requires no scrambling to prepare when a storm approaches. Many homeowners tell us this alone justifies the investment—no more rushing home from vacation to put up shutters or worrying about being physically unable to install them as you age.
The financial benefits build steadily over time. With energy savings approaching 31% on monthly utility bills, your investment starts paying returns immediately. The insurance savings that continue year after year often surprise homeowners with how substantially they offset the initial cost. When you eventually sell, the increased property value with typical ROI of 75-85% makes these windows one of the smartest home improvements available.
Inside your home, the difference is just as meaningful. The noise reduction creates a noticeably quieter, more peaceful environment—something particularly valuable if you live near busy streets, schools, or commercial areas. The UV protection that blocks 99.7% of harmful rays preserves your furnishings and prevents fading of expensive flooring, artwork, and upholstery. And don’t overlook the improved security against break-ins that brings additional peace of mind.
Yes, the upfront investment is significant—typically between $4,627 and $20,440 for a whole-house installation—but financing options, tax credits, and programs like My Safe Florida Home can make this investment more accessible. When spread over the lifetime of your windows, the value becomes clear.
The key to maximizing these benefits lies in quality products and proper installation. Cutting corners on either can compromise performance precisely when protection matters most. That’s why choosing the right partner for your project is so crucial.
At Access Doors & Windows, we understand what’s at stake. As a military family-owned business serving communities throughout Florida from our bases in Ft. Myers and Deerfield Beach, protecting homes and families is our mission, not just our business. Our commitment to quality, integrity, and customer satisfaction guides every hurricane window installation we perform.
We invite you to experience the difference that properly installed, high-quality hurricane impact windows can make in your home’s safety, comfort, and efficiency. The window of opportunity to protect your home is open—and we’re here to help you make the most of it.
