If you are considering renovations to your home, MT Construction Group is a full-service Miami renovation company. Over our 11 years in business, we have established a reputation as being reliable, on-time, and affordable. Our estimates are free of charge, so there’s no risk in contacting us. Call today for a free estimate.
If you haven’t replaced your windows in a few years, you may be surprised to find out that the Florida Building Code requires all windows to be impact-resistant. That does not mean that all windows have to be replaced. The law only applies to new windows.
Why You Should Have Impact Windows in Miami
If you do not have impact windows already, there are several reasons why you should consider them. The biggest reason is that we are currently experiencing an unusually high volume of hurricanes, and 2021 is also expected to have an unusually high number of storms. The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration is predicting 13 to 20 named storms this year. If you live in South Florida long enough, you are going to experience a hurricane.
Safety
Hurricane impact windows will keep you safer. Other than their ability to resist high winds or impacts from high-speed objects, they are also harder for human beings to smash, making your home safer from burglars. New hurricane windows will add an additional layer of security to your home.
Insurance Premiums
Most insurance companies offer premium discounts for homes with impact windows and doors. To find out how much you can save, contact your agent prior to installation. The savings can start at a few hundred dollars annually up to thousands of dollars.
Energy Efficient
Impact windows are less prone to leakage. It will keep the cool, air-conditioned air in and the hot air out. Hurricane windows are also effective in keeping moisture out of your home.
Noise Mitigation
If you live on a busy street or near a flight path, you will immediately notice how quiet your house has gotten after installation is complete. That’s because the thicker, stronger windows vibrate less. Outdoor noise is absorbed by the glass rather than radiated by it.
How are Impact Windows different?
Instead of being a thin glass sheet, impact windows are made from two separate pieces of tempered glass. They are joined with a plastic film that enhances the strength of both pieces of glass. Finally, the frames and mountings are substantially stronger than the older windows in Miami.
Cost Benefits of Impact Windows
While impact windows are a little pricier than traditional windows, they can save you money in several ways:
- Impact windows are energy efficient and can immediately lower your power bill.
- Impact windows often mean lower insurance premiums. Your house is safer, and the insurance companies recognize that you should benefit from that.
- Impact windows raise the value of your home. You can realize a cost recuperation of 76% if you sell your home after the purchase.
Types of Impact Windows
Impact windows come in different styles. You can opt for windows that slide vertically or horizontally, or you can choose windows that open as one or two doors.
Frequently Asked Questions About Impact Windows
At MT Construction Group, we know the questions that homeowners ask before they make renovations. If you’re thinking of impact window installation, you probably have questions about your proposed investment. We’re here to answer them. If you have a question and don’t see it answered below, give us a call.
Can impact windows keep you safe in a hurricane?
Hurricanes are dangerous, and if you’re told to evacuate your area, you should heed the warning. With that said, impact windows can keep you and your home safer during a hurricane or inclement weather. Impact windows can withstand up to 200 mph winds. What was once one of the most desired features of a Florida home is now one of the most secure.
What are the costs of impact windows?
The answer to this depends on the size of your windows, the number of windows, and the type of impact windows that you select for your home. At MT Construction Group, we are happy to give you an estimate for a full or partial impact window installation. Most people choose to install their windows and impact doors at the same time to avoid pulling multiple permits.
What is the wind rating of impact windows?
The design pressure rating or (DP) for windows varies. The higher the DP, the higher the wind speed that the window is rated to withstand. For instance, a hundred square foot window in the center of a wall (as opposed to a corner window) with a DP rating of 50 is designed to withstand 170 mph winds. Talk to a window installation expert about your impact window needs.
Does it make sense to do my impact windows while renovating my home?
If you’re planning on replacing windows — and not just panes of glass — you may not have a choice. Impact windows are the law. You may want to ask yourself the following questions prior to making the decision to replace windows:
- How old are my windows?
- Am I planning on selling my home in the next year?
- Do I intend to weather a storm in this house?
Most people would prefer not to be experiencing an endless stream of renovations. If you can afford to do all your renovations at once, it only makes sense to have MT Construction Group pull all of the permits at once and knock out your renovations in a short period of time.
How long does it take to get my windows installed?
After you make the decision to get impact windows, we will come out to take measurements. We will then apply for the permits with Miami-Dade. Residential building permits take approximately 30 days to process in Dade County. Once we’ve secured the permits, we can schedule you for installation. The installation process usually only takes about a day or two.
Will I have to leave my home for window installation?
Unless you’re having other, more intrusive renovations done to your home, you should not have to leave your residence during window and door installation. Furthermore, your home will remain secure while we conduct the installation.
Is it a good idea to replace my doors and garage door at the same time?
Your home is only as strong as the weakest component. If we are hit by a hurricane, the same winds that will be buffeting your windows will be affecting your doors and windows as well. Replacing your doors does make sense if you can afford to do all renovations at once.
Can I stay in my house during a hurricane if I have impact doors and windows?
You should never remain in your home if you’ve been told to evacuate by the local authorities. Unfortunately, the threat to your safety doesn’t end once the wind stops blowing. You may be vulnerable to flooding, downed power lines, and you may not be able to expect help for days or weeks. Having said that, the integrity of your home with regard to your windows and doors will be much safer if you replace them with high-impact counterparts. You also won’t have to spend days of preparation hanging heavy steel shutters.
Miami Impact Window Installer
For over a decade, our team of contractors has been performing renovations in the Miami area. We are dependable, on time, and relatively inexpensive when compared to our competitors. Call MT Construction Group for a free estimate. We can begin the process of installing windows in days. Call today!