Impact Windows Wedgefield FL - Hurricane Protection
Living near Split Oak Forest and the Econlockhatchee River means you know Florida weather. When hurricane season arrives in Wedgefield, you need windows that can handle 150+ mph winds and flying debris. Traditional windows with storm shutters are a hassle - who wants to scramble putting up plywood every time a storm threatens Central Florida? Impact windows give you year-round protection without the headache. You get the same safety as shutters, but your windows work 24/7 to protect your family and belongings.
Alpine Exteriors installs PGT WinGuard and Simonton StormBreaker Plus impact windows throughout Wedgefield. These aren't just any storm windows - they meet Florida Building Code R4402 for large-missile impact (Level D) and carry HVHZ approval. Your insurance company will thank you too, with discounts up to 35% on your homeowners policy.
What makes impact windows different from regular windows?
Impact windows use laminated glass with a special interlayer that holds the glass together even when it breaks. Think of your car windshield - same concept, but much stronger. Regular windows shatter into dangerous pieces when hit by debris. Impact windows might crack, but they stay in place to keep wind and rain out of your home.
The frames matter just as much as the glass. Our PGT WinGuard and Simonton StormBreaker Plus windows use reinforced aluminum or vinyl frames that won't buckle under pressure. These frames anchor deep into your wall structure, creating a barrier that can handle whatever Florida throws at it.
Do impact windows really save money on insurance?
Yes - most insurance companies in Florida offer discounts between 20-35% when you install impact windows. Your exact discount depends on your insurance company and how much of your home you protect. Some insurers require impact protection on all openings, while others give partial credit for protecting just the most vulnerable areas.
The savings add up fast. If you pay $3,000 per year for homeowners insurance, a 25% discount saves you $750 annually. Over 10 years, that's $7,500 back in your pocket. Factor in the peace of mind during hurricane season, and impact windows pay for themselves.
Can I install impact windows myself?
No - Florida law requires a licensed contractor to install impact windows. The installation must pass inspection to meet Florida Building Code requirements. Improper installation voids your warranty and won't qualify for insurance discounts. More importantly, incorrectly installed impact windows can fail during a storm.
Our installation team knows the specific requirements for Wedgefield homes. We handle all permits and inspections, ensuring your windows meet or exceed code. As a Florida State Licensed Contractor, we guarantee our work meets all local and state requirements.
How long do impact windows last in Florida weather?
Quality impact windows like PGT WinGuard and Simonton StormBreaker Plus last 20-30 years in Florida's climate. The laminated glass doesn't yellow or degrade like some older impact products did. Aluminum frames resist corrosion from humidity and salt air, while vinyl frames won't warp or crack in our intense summer heat.
Regular maintenance keeps your windows working properly for decades. Clean the tracks, lubricate moving parts, and check the weatherstripping annually. We provide detailed care instructions with every installation to help you protect your investment.
What size impact windows can you install?
We install impact windows in virtually any size your Wedgefield home needs. From small bathroom windows to large sliding patio doors, both PGT and Simonton make impact products to fit your openings. Large windows and doors require special engineering, but our manufacturers provide the structural calculations needed for permit approval.
Custom sizes don't significantly increase installation time, but they do take longer to manufacture. Standard-size windows typically arrive in 2-3 weeks, while custom orders take 4-6 weeks. We measure every opening precisely to ensure a perfect fit and maximum protection.
Do HOAs in Wedgefield approve impact windows?
Most HOAs in Central Florida encourage impact windows for the added protection and property value they provide. However, some associations have specific requirements about window styles, colors, or grid patterns. We recommend checking your HOA guidelines before ordering.
Both PGT and Simonton offer multiple design options to meet HOA requirements. You can choose from different frame colors, glass tints, and decorative grids. We'll work with your HOA to ensure your new windows comply with all architectural guidelines.
Frequently Asked Questions
Alpine Exteriors serves Wedgefield, FL and the greater Orlando metro. Call (407) 428-1754 for a free estimate.