FAQs · What clients ask us
Impact Window & Door Questions, Answered
Permits, approvals, products, cost, insurance, and condos, in plain English.
Permits and approvals
Do I need a permit to replace windows or doors in South Florida?
Yes. Exterior window and door replacement requires a building permit in Broward and Palm Beach counties. We prepare and submit the application with the product approvals, answer plan review comments, and schedule the inspections.
What is the High-Velocity Hurricane Zone?
Under the Florida Building Code, the High-Velocity Hurricane Zone (HVHZ) covers Miami-Dade and Broward counties. Products installed there must be approved for HVHZ use. Read our HVHZ guide.
What is the difference between a Miami-Dade NOA and Florida Product Approval?
Both certify that a product was tested for Florida’s wind and impact conditions. A Miami-Dade NOA is the standard for the HVHZ, including Broward. Florida Product Approval is the statewide system used in Palm Beach County and the rest of Florida. Read the full comparison.
Who pulls the permit?
We do. As a licensed Florida contractor (CRC1333292), we handle the application, the product approval documents, and the inspections.
My home is historic or on the island of Palm Beach. Is the process different?
Often, yes. Historic properties in cities like Delray Beach need a Certificate of Appropriateness, and the Town of Palm Beach may require Architectural Commission or Landmarks review. See our Delray Beach and Palm Beach pages.
Products
Which brands do you install?
ES Windows, PGT, CWS, ETI, and Velocity. Because we aren’t tied to one manufacturer, we choose the system that fits each opening, its approvals, and the design of the house.
Do impact windows replace hurricane shutters?
Impact-rated windows and doors installed to their approval serve as the opening protection themselves, so there is nothing to put up before a storm.
Can a very large sliding door be impact-rated?
Yes, within the limits of each product’s approval. Every approval lists the maximum sizes and design pressures it was tested to, and we design the opening around those limits. See impact sliding glass doors.
What is low-iron glass?
Standard clear glass has a slight green tint. Low-iron glass contains less iron, so it looks clearer and truer to color. It is popular for showers, wine rooms, and large architectural glass.
Do you install commercial storefronts and curtain wall?
Yes. We work with general contractors, developers, and architects on storefronts, glass entrances, and curtain wall. See architectural and commercial glazing.
Cost, insurance and timing
How much do impact windows cost?
Pricing depends on the number and size of openings, the product, the glass, the finish, and the design pressure at your address. Your free in-home estimate gives you an exact, itemized proposal.
Do you offer financing?
Yes. Financing is available for qualifying projects, subject to lender approval. Ask about options during your free estimate, or see financing.
Can impact windows lower my insurance premium?
Florida insurers must offer credits for qualifying windstorm mitigation features, including protected openings. A wind mitigation inspection after installation documents them for your insurer. Savings vary by policy.
How long does a project take?
Most of the timeline is permitting and manufacturing, which vary by city and product. Installation itself is usually measured in days. Your proposal includes an estimated schedule, and your client portal shows each confirmed milestone. See our process.
Is the estimate really free?
Yes. We measure your openings, talk through options, and give you a written proposal at no cost and with no obligation. Schedule yours.
Condos, HOAs and builders
Can I replace windows in my condo?
Usually, with your association’s approval and a city permit. Ask building management for the window and door specification, and we will design the replacement to match it. Read our condo guide.
Do you work with builders and architects?
Yes. We provide takeoffs, product recommendations, approval packages for permitting, and installation coordinated with your schedule. See builders and architects.
Which areas do you serve?
Broward and Palm Beach counties, including Fort Lauderdale, Pompano Beach, Lighthouse Point, Deerfield Beach, Coral Springs, Parkland, Weston, Boca Raton, Delray Beach, Palm Beach, and West Palm Beach. See all service areas.