The windows in your home play a significant role in its overall look, feel and energy efficiency. Inefficient or outdated window styles can contribute to high energy bills, cold glass and structural damage.
When looking for a qualified provider, choose local companies that have extensive experience in the Florida area. They will have a better understanding of the climate and can offer a wide selection of energy-efficient options.
Frame Material
The frame material you choose for your windows can impact the total cost of your project. Different frames offer different levels of energy efficiency and durability, and some have specific features that are beneficial in Florida’s climate.
The most popular frame materials are vinyl and aluminum. Both are affordable and durable, but vinyl is more resistant to rust and corrosion than aluminum. Vinyl is also an excellent insulator and offers better energy efficiency than aluminum, which is less effective in hot temperatures.
Fiberglass is another option. It looks similar to wood and resists humidity, but it doesn’t require painting and doesn’t warp or rot. Renewal by Andersen’s Fibrex material is an innovative option for a high-performance frame that combines the strength of wood and vinyl’s low maintenance. This allows for vibrant colors that won’t fade, narrow frames that maximize glass area and energy-efficient performance. This material also has a shape-retaining quality that prevents drooping and bowing.
Glass
The type of window glass you choose for your replacement windows has a big impact on your home’s energy efficiency. Many reputable brands in Florida now offer impact-resistant options and energy-efficient options like double-glazed windows with or without insulation gas, or low-E coating designed specifically for hot climates.
Energy efficient windows can help lower your power bills and reduce your carbon footprint. They also protect your furniture and carpets from fading caused by harmful UV rays.
A professional installer can install a variety of window types including bay windows, bow windows, casement windows, and double hung windows. They can also help you choose a custom window design to suit your home’s style and architecture. In addition, they can handle both full-frame and pocket installations. They can also perform an energy audit to help you make the best choices for your home. The results will show how much you can save by making a few simple changes.
Installation
Florida homes face special challenges from hot weather and intense UV rays, which requires windows to be resilient and energy efficient. This is why many reputable companies offer products that are designed for the climate. They also recommend installing impact-resistant windows in homes within one mile of the coastline.
The window type you choose can affect the overall cost of your project. For example, aluminum windows are affordable and durable, but they do not provide much in terms of energy efficiency. Fiberglass and composite frames are more expensive but offer higher energy-efficiency levels.
When choosing a company to install your new windows, look for one that has an excellent reputation and a wide range of options to suit your home. A reputable company will also offer free consultations and estimates. They will inspect your existing windows and recommend whether repair or replacement is necessary. Then they will order the windows with your exact sizing and preferences and schedule the installation.
Warranty
Window replacement companies offer a variety of warranties, which you should read carefully. Some warranties cover only the materials while others include installation and service. It’s also important to find out whether the warranty has a pro-rated schedule for replacement or not.
The window size is a big factor in the cost of your new windows. Larger windows require more glass, which is why they’re more expensive. Smaller windows are often decorative or not functional, like transoms above doors or other windows, or basement non-egress windows.
You can save money on energy bills by choosing a double-hung window with energy efficiency features. You can also opt for a picture window to let in the scenery or a bay window for unique style. Impact-resistant windows are another option for Florida homeowners, as they protect against high winds and other weather extremes. They use laminated glass and can withstand hurricane-force wind speeds. They cost more than standard windows but are worth the investment.