Common Questions
What are the types of construction?
What is impact resistant glass?
What are the benefits of impact glass?
What are some basics about permits?
What kind of warranty should I look for on products?
What about energy savings?
What is the current code requirements for condominiums?
What are the types of construction?
There are many types and styles of windows and doors to choose from such as wood clad, vinyl or aluminum. Although wood clad and vinyl windows and doors remain a popular choice in other parts of the country, aluminum windows and doors remain the most popular choice in warmer weather climate due to the benefits of strength, low maintenance and low cost.
Back to TopWhat is impact resistant glass?
Impact-Resistant Glass is an excellent option for meeting building codes that require windows and doors to be protected against penetration by windborne debris. Impact-resistant glass consists of two panes of glass laminated together with a polymer interlayer. In addition to providing hurricane protection, windows and doors with impact-resistant glass also offer protection against intruders, outside noise and fading UV light. Impact-resistant glass meets the same requirements for safety glazing as tempered glass.
Back to TopWhat are the benefits of impact resistance glass?
Security
It’s just as difficult for a burglar to shatter a laminated windowpane as it is for a wind-blown roof tile to smash through it. Therefore, this option is especially attractive for vacation homes because your home is protected 24/7 from unwanted intrusions and hurricanes.
Sound Dampening
Glass is inherently brittle and readily transmits sound vibrations. Adding a flexible interlayer that is used in impact protection has the same affect as putting a finger on a drumhead. It deadens the vibration, which similarly reduces outside noise.
UV Protection
The plastic interlayer blocks ultraviolet light, which cause carpets and home fabrics on your drapes and furniture to fade.
Back to TopWhat are some basics about permits?
Current building codes today in Southwest Florida require impact protection when windows and doors are replaced in our coastal environment. Additionally, building permits are required for replacing windows and doors.
In the U.S. Market there are literally thousands of window lines to choose from. It doesn’t take much to get into the window business and capture local markets with cut-rate pricing. These are the companies that may not be around when the glass fails.
Back to TopWhat kind of warranty should I look for on products?
Nearly 30% of replacement windows installed today will replace windows that are only seven years old. The most common failure is the breakdown of the seal on an insulated glass unit. Choosing windows manufactured by leading manufactures that have the ability to service your warranty claim is most important in choosing a window brand for your home. Many windows are sold and installed through small companies that come and go. We see windows and doors sold in our area that are built hundreds if not thousands of miles away from our area. If you need warranty repair who will be there to assist you?
A warranty on non-glass parts is especially significant on the coast. Constant humidity, blowing rain, salt and sand will quickly degrade less expensive finishes and hardware that will hinder sash movement. If a warranty says ‘lifetime warranty’ it should make you nervous. Some questions to ask include: Is the warranty prorated, or fully transferable, does it cover the glass, finish, labor and installation? How long has the company been in business? Is it a local small firm or a publicly traded company? These are just some of the things to consider about your choice on purchasing new windows for your home.
Back to TopWhat about energy savings?
According to Lee County Electric Cooperative (LCEC) although glass has a low R-Value, the typical Florida temperature difference from inside to outside is only about 10-20 degrees on average. Therefore, the amount of heat that can be transferred into your home through your windows is correspondingly small. There are options such as tinted glass or insulated glass that will offer heat resistance with a lower solar heat gain rating. Insulated glass with a Low-E coating is best suited for areas that receive direct sunlight.
Back to TopWhat is the current code requirements for condominiums?
According to the 2004 Florida Building Code, Section 1909.1.4 Protection of Openings, “In wind-borne debris regions, exterior glazing that receives positive pressure in the lower 60 feet (18.3 m) in buildings shall be assumed to be openings and the balance of glazed openings in the rest of the building shall be assumed to be zero unless such glazing that receives positive pressure is impact resistant or protected with an impact resistant covering meeting the requirements of SSTD 12, ASTM E 1886 and ASTM E 1996, or Miami-Dade TAS 201, 202 and 203 referenced therein as follows:
- Glazed openings located within 30 feet (9.1 m) of grade shall meet the requirements of the Large Missle Test.
- Glazed openings located more than 30 feet (9.1 m) above grade shall meet the provisions of the Small Missle Test.
