Armor Pro Windows: Impact Windows

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Impact Window Styles

We offer a comprehensive range of impact window styles to complement your South Florida home's architecture:

Single-Hung Windows

South Florida's classic choice combining traditional aesthetics with hurricane protection. These windows feature a movable bottom sash while the top remains fixed for efficient ventilation control.

Single-Hung Details

Sliding Windows

Horizontal operation provides effortless functionality and maximizes ventilation. These impact windows glide smoothly along tracks, perfect for spaces where outward opening would cause obstruction.

Sliding Windows Details

Maximize your South Florida views with fixed, non-opening impact windows designed for unobstructed visibility. Picture windows offer superior light transmission while maintaining the highest levels of hurricane protection.

Picture Windows Details

Casement Windows

Hinged on one side and opening outward with a crank, these windows provide excellent ventilation and a tight seal against hurricane-force winds and water intrusion.

Casement Windows Details

Architectural Windows

Distinctive geometric shapes and custom designs that maintain hurricane protection standards while adding architectural interest to Florida homes and buildings.

Architectural Details

Awning Windows

Hinged at the top and opening outward, these versatile impact windows allow ventilation even during South Florida's frequent rain showers while providing complete hurricane protection.

Awning Windows Details

Getting Started With Hurricane Impact Windows

In a few simple steps, you could be getting started on your home protection project. Here's how it works:

Step 1

Request a Free Consultation

Book a specialist to assess your home's needs and provide expert recommendations for hurricane protection.

Step 2

Choose Your Windows

Select from our wide range of impact-resistant products that match your style, budget, and protection requirements.

Step 3

Professional Installation

Our certified installers will properly fit your new impact windows, ensuring they meet all code requirements and perform as designed.

Step 4

Enjoy Peace of Mind

Relax knowing your home is protected against hurricanes, intruders, and UV damage, while lowering your insurance premiums.

Schedule Your Free Consultation

Materials & Construction

Vinyl Frames

Excellent energy efficiency
Virtually maintenance-free
Resistant to salt air corrosion
Wide range of color options
Budget-friendly pricing

Aluminum Frames

Superior strength-to-weight ratio
Slim profile maximizes glass area
Excellent for large openings
Enhanced structural support
Recyclable and sustainable

Composite Frames

Combines wood fiber with polymer resins
Wood-like appearance with enhanced durability
Superior thermal performance
Resistant to rot, decay, and insects
Low maintenance requirements

Glass Options & Impact Ratings

Our impact windows feature multi-layered glass packages designed to meet or exceed Florida's strict building codes:

Glass Types:

Laminated Glass: Multiple layers bonded with PVB or EVA interlayers
Insulating Glass Units (IGU): Dual-pane or triple-pane configurations with sealed air spaces
Low-E Glass: Special coatings that reflect infrared light while allowing visible light to pass through

Impact Ratings Explained:

Windows must withstand impact from a 9-pound 2x4 lumber projectile traveling at 50 feet per second

Resistance to steel ball bearings traveling at high speeds

Simulates hurricane wind conditions with thousands of positive and negative pressure cycles

Energy Efficiency Features

In South Florida's tropical climate, energy-efficient windows are essential for comfort and cost savings:

U-Factor

Measures heat transfer resistance (lower is better)

SHGC

Solar Heat Gain Coefficient - measures solar radiation blocked (lower is better for cooling-dominated climates)

VT

Visible Transmittance - measures amount of visible light transmitted

Air Leakage

Measures air passage through window assembly

Benefits of Impact Windows

Noise Reduction Benefits

Reduces outside noise by up to 50% compared to standard windows
STC (Sound Transmission Class) ratings of 35-40+ (higher is better)
Particularly effective against low-frequency sounds like traffic and aircraft
Creates a quieter, more peaceful indoor environment
Especially valuable for homes near busy streets, airports, or commercial areas

Security Advantages

Virtually impossible to break through quickly and quietly
Interlayer remains intact even if glass is damaged
Serves as a powerful deterrent to potential intruders
Eliminates need for security bars or separate alarm systems
Most insurance companies offer discounts for homes with impact windows

Warranty Information & Code Compliance

Comprehensive Warranty Coverage

Lifetime limited warranty covering materials and workmanship

10-20 year coverage against seal failure and material defects

2-5 year workmanship warranty on all professional installations

Many warranties can transfer to new homeowners, enhancing property value

Additional coverage plans available for complete peace of mind

Miami-Dade & Florida Building Code Compliance

Our impact windows meet or exceed all regulatory requirements for South Florida:

Miami-Dade County Notice of Acceptance (NOA): The most stringent testing standard in the country
Florida Building Code (FBC) Product Approval: Required for all window installations in Florida
High-Velocity Hurricane Zone (HVHZ) Rated: Specifically designed for Miami-Dade and Broward Counties
Wind Zone Compliance: Products matched to your property's specific wind zone requirements
Building Department Approval: We handle all permitting and inspection requirements

Complete Guide to Impact Windows in South Florida

Impact windows have become an essential home improvement for South Florida residents, offering not only protection from hurricanes but also year-round benefits that enhance home comfort, security, and energy efficiency. Understanding the technology, installation requirements, and long-term advantages of impact windows can help homeowners make informed decisions about this significant investment in their property.

The Evolution of Impact Window Technology

The development of impact-resistant windows traces back to the aftermath of Hurricane Andrew in 1992, which devastated South Florida and exposed the vulnerabilities of traditional window systems. In response, engineers and manufacturers developed specialized glazing systems that could withstand the extreme forces of hurricane-force winds and flying debris. Today's impact windows represent the culmination of decades of research, testing, and refinement, incorporating advanced materials and construction techniques to provide unparalleled protection.

Modern impact windows utilize laminated glass technology similar to that used in automobile windshields. This construction consists of two sheets of glass bonded together with a specialized interlayer material, typically polyvinyl butyral (PVB) or ethylene-vinyl acetate (EVA). When subjected to impact, the glass may crack, but the interlayer holds the fragments in place, preventing breach of the building envelope and maintaining structural integrity during severe weather events.

Understanding Florida Building Code Requirements

The Florida Building Code (FBC) establishes stringent requirements for impact-resistant windows, particularly in high-velocity hurricane zones (HVHZ) that include Miami-Dade and Broward counties. These requirements mandate that all windows installed in these regions must pass rigorous testing protocols that simulate hurricane conditions. The testing process includes both large and small missile impact tests, as well as cyclic pressure testing that subjects windows to thousands of positive and negative pressure cycles to simulate the dynamic forces experienced during a hurricane.

For homeowners in South Florida, compliance with these codes is not optional but mandatory. Impact windows must carry specific certifications, including the Miami-Dade County Notice of Acceptance (NOA), which represents the most stringent testing standard in the country. Products that meet these requirements undergo extensive third-party testing and must demonstrate their ability to maintain structural integrity even after impact from debris traveling at high velocities.

Energy Efficiency and Climate Considerations

In South Florida's subtropical climate, where cooling costs can represent a significant portion of household energy expenses, the energy efficiency of windows plays a crucial role in home comfort and utility bills. Impact windows offer superior energy performance compared to standard windows, thanks to their multi-layered construction and the availability of advanced low-emissivity (Low-E) coatings that reflect solar radiation while allowing visible light to pass through.

The energy performance of impact windows is measured through several key metrics. The U-factor measures how well a window prevents heat from escaping, with lower values indicating better insulation. The Solar Heat Gain Coefficient (SHGC) measures how much solar radiation passes through a window, with lower values being preferable in hot climates like South Florida. Visible Transmittance (VT) indicates how much natural light enters through the window, while Air Leakage ratings measure how much air passes through the window assembly.

Installation Best Practices and Considerations

Proper installation of impact windows is as critical as the quality of the windows themselves. Even the highest-rated impact window can fail to perform as designed if not installed correctly. Professional installation by certified contractors ensures that windows are properly anchored to the building structure, sealed against water infiltration, and aligned for optimal operation. The installation process typically involves removing existing windows, preparing the opening, installing appropriate flashing and sealants, and securing the new window with approved fasteners that meet code requirements.

During installation, particular attention must be paid to the window's integration with the building's water management system. Proper flashing and drainage details prevent water infiltration, which can lead to structural damage, mold growth, and indoor air quality issues. Professional installers also ensure that windows operate smoothly, locks function correctly, and all components are properly adjusted for optimal performance.

Frequently Asked Questions About Impact Windows

The cost of impact windows varies significantly based on several factors, including window size, style, frame material, glass options, and installation requirements. On average, homeowners in South Florida can expect to pay between $600 to $1,500 per window, including installation. While this represents a substantial investment compared to standard windows, the long-term benefits often justify the cost. Impact windows provide hurricane protection, enhanced security, improved energy efficiency, and potential insurance premium reductions. Many homeowners also find that impact windows increase their property value, making them a worthwhile investment for both immediate protection and future resale value.

Yes, impact windows provide excellent UV protection, blocking up to 99% of harmful ultraviolet rays. This protection comes from the laminated glass construction and optional Low-E coatings that can be applied to the glass surface. UV protection is particularly important in South Florida's sunny climate, where prolonged exposure to UV rays can cause furniture, carpets, artwork, and other interior furnishings to fade prematurely. Additionally, UV protection helps reduce the risk of skin damage from sun exposure through windows, creating a healthier indoor environment. The UV-blocking properties of impact windows also contribute to their energy efficiency by reducing solar heat gain, which helps maintain comfortable indoor temperatures and lower cooling costs.

While no window is completely impenetrable, impact windows provide exceptional security against break-ins. The laminated glass construction makes it extremely difficult for intruders to gain quick entry. Even if the outer layer of glass is broken, the strong interlayer material holds the glass fragments in place, creating a barrier that requires significant time and effort to breach. This delay often deters burglars who typically seek easy targets they can enter quickly and quietly. The noise created by attempting to break through impact windows also attracts attention, further discouraging break-in attempts. Many insurance companies recognize the security benefits of impact windows and offer premium discounts for homes equipped with them.

Impact windows are designed for long-term durability and typically last 20-30 years or more with proper maintenance. The lifespan depends on several factors, including the quality of materials, installation quality, environmental conditions, and maintenance practices. Vinyl frames can last 20-40 years, while aluminum frames may last 15-20 years in coastal environments. The laminated glass itself is extremely durable and maintains its impact resistance throughout the window's lifetime. Regular maintenance, such as cleaning tracks, lubricating hardware, and inspecting seals, can extend the life of impact windows. Many manufacturers offer warranties ranging from 10 years to lifetime coverage on various components, reflecting their confidence in the product's longevity.

Impact windows provide significant noise reduction benefits, typically reducing outside noise by 40-50% compared to standard single-pane windows. The laminated glass construction, with its sound-dampening interlayer, effectively blocks sound waves from entering your home. This noise reduction is particularly valuable for homes near airports, busy roads, construction sites, or other sources of environmental noise. The Sound Transmission Class (STC) rating of impact windows typically ranges from 35-40 or higher, indicating excellent sound-blocking capabilities. Many homeowners report dramatic improvements in their quality of life after installing impact windows, enjoying quieter, more peaceful indoor environments that enhance sleep quality, reduce stress, and improve overall comfort.

Impact windows are highly energy efficient, offering superior performance compared to standard windows. The multi-layered construction provides excellent insulation, reducing heat transfer between indoor and outdoor environments. Many impact windows feature Low-E coatings that reflect infrared radiation while allowing visible light to pass through, helping maintain comfortable indoor temperatures year-round. In South Florida's hot climate, this means reduced cooling costs during summer months and improved comfort during brief cool periods. The energy efficiency of impact windows is measured through U-factor (insulation value) and Solar Heat Gain Coefficient (SHGC), with lower values indicating better performance. Many impact windows qualify for ENERGY STAR certification, and homeowners may be eligible for energy efficiency tax credits or utility rebates when installing qualifying products.

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Impact Windows South Florida

Hurricane protection with exceptional energy efficiency