Need Advice with Hurricane Impact Windows (Miami: house, rent, lease)

[jhlcomp]

I posted a similar thread months ago and we are just about to sign on the dotted line for new windows. Before doing so, have any of you replaced your windows with Simonton?

Please, if you have not replaced your windows with hurricane impact windows or have first hand knowledge about this process - please do not respond. I need hard facts. Thank you so much!!

[ivcceo]

I chose shutters over replacing the windows after I saw on the news where they shot a wooden beam right through supposed hurricane impact windows. That being said, make sure the product you buy is rated for the following standards:

SSTD 12, ASTM E 1886 and ASTME E 1996, which are testing standards for impact-resistant glass and shutters;

•OR you can choose products tested and approved to Miami-Dade Protocols TAS 201, TAS 202, and TAS 203, which are the most stringent testing standards in the nation for impact-resistant glass and shutters.

[jhlcomp]

Thank you ivcceo! I wish we had done this before the hurricanes as I would have saved over $10,000 - now it's $40,000 for our home. We may wind up with shutters.

[rancov]

Originally Posted by jhlcomp

I posted a similar thread months ago and we are just about to sign on the dotted line for new windows. Before doing so, have any of you replaced your windows with Simonton?

Please, if you have not replaced your windows with hurricane impact windows or have first hand knowledge about this process - please do not respond. I need hard facts. Thank you so much!!

This is I am sure late. But here goes. Impact windows and shutters are now approaching parity in pricing (relative to quality). Shutters require a great deal of compromise architecturally and you will have ugly appendages on the exterior that will detract from the beauty of your home and will require maintenance.

If you deal with a competent, reliable firm that has been in business you will not be cheated with windows that will not pass the test you mentioned.

The TAS 201,202,203 standards are the most stringent fenestration standards in the World. The system in Dade County and the state of Florida that has the test performed and verified by, certified, independent labs give you the clearest picture of the cpapbilities of the window.

Additionally, if you have impact windows in the house, you will now receive a reduction in your insurance (based on an inspection) whereas some companies are still reluctant to offer the same for a shutter because if you are gone and no one closes the shutter, the house remains unprotected.

If you have only a few hours of notice and are out of town, your home will be unprotected. If you install impact rated windows, you do not have that worry.

If you have a home with a second story, you are taking a real risk when you get up on a ladder to install the shutters. What if you were blown off the ladder and were injured and could not work what would that cost you?

Also, during a storm, your electricity will go out fro some extended period of time, with impact windows, your home will have the benefit of light during the day giving you more security.

[New England Yankee]

How much money are these windows.I have a 2300 sq ft home

[rancov]

Which windows. To get any kind of price, you need the type and sizes and quantities of the windows and doors. Send me a message and maybe I can help.

[WindowTech]

If you Google Simonton Windows you'll find they are rated very high as far window manufacturers go. They are also Miami/Dade approved which is the most important part of any hurricane resistant products homeowners should rely upon.

I personally removed the Lawson aluminum single pane winodws for vinyl Simonton's and my home is now totally silent from outside noise. I have also noticed a significant saving in my electric bill.

Just as a side note. When a broken glass (not from objects) or seal failure occurs, try to find the manufacturer of the window or place purchased. Pella, Andersen, Simonton, etc.. have service people which will make warranty repairs free of charge, in most cases. Pella, charges per hour after the first year, even if the product is still under warranty.

[mec1212]

check out this report on the success and failure of different window treatments in hurricanes in florida in 2004 and 2005

Cote & D'Ambrosio - Hurricane Preparation