Impact Window Installation Cost Per Square Foot?
Installing impact glass into an existing window can be a cost-effective choice, typically priced at around $70 per square foot. While this may appear more budget-friendly than investing in an entirely new window with a fresh frame and impact-resistant glazing, there are some considerations to keep in mind. If you plan to retain your current window unit, you should factor in potential costs for window repairs.
It’s crucial to ensure that your existing window is in excellent condition and completely weatherproof. Any damage to the tracks, seals, or hardware could compromise the effectiveness of the impact glazing, hindering the window’s ability to fulfill its intended purpose.
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Various factors can influence the pricing of impact windows. These include:
- Frame Material Selection: The material chosen for the window frame, such as aluminum or vinyl, can impact the overall cost.
- Glazing Type: The type of glazing used, including single or double pane, laminated, or insulated glass, can affect the cost.
- Window Size: Larger windows generally cost more to install than smaller ones due to the increased materials and labor required.
- Number of Windows: The total quantity of windows being installed in a project can impact the overall cost.
- Window Brand/Make: Different brands or manufacturers offer windows at varying price points, which can influence your total expenses.
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- Size of Window Installation Company: Larger window installation companies may have different pricing structures than smaller ones, potentially affecting costs.
- Condition of Existing Frames (for Re-glazing): If you are re-glazing existing frames, their condition can impact the cost, as repairs or modifications may be needed.
- Disposal Costs for Old Windows: Properly disposing of old windows can come with associated costs.
- Building Permit Expenses: Depending on local regulations, obtaining the necessary building permits can add to the overall project cost.
- Zip Code: Labor costs and material prices can vary significantly from one state or location to another, so your geographic area, as indicated by your zip code, can also affect pricing.
How do impact windows work?
Impact windows, also known as hurricane windows, are specially designed to provide superior protection during severe weather events, particularly hurricanes and strong storms. Their primary function is to resist the penetration of flying debris, which is one of the most significant threats to a home’s structural integrity during such events.
Here’s a breakdown of how impact windows work:
- Reinforced Construction: Impact windows are constructed with reinforced frames and laminated glass. The frame materials commonly used include aluminum, vinyl, or wood that has been fortified for added strength and durability.
- Laminated Glass: The key element in impact windows is the laminated glass. It consists of two layers of glass bonded together with a tough, transparent interlayer, typically made of polyvinyl butyral (PVB). This interlayer is what makes the glass impact-resistant.
- Impact Resistance Testing: To qualify as impact-rated products, these windows must undergo rigorous testing to ensure they meet specific hurricane or wind-borne debris codes set by approved regulatory bodies.
This testing typically involves simulating the impact of high-speed debris, such as large hail or projectiles, on the window’s surface.
- Protection from Debris: During a storm, when debris is propelled by high winds, impact windows are designed to withstand the impact without shattering. The laminated glass may crack upon impact, but it remains in place due to the interlayer, preventing the penetration of debris and maintaining the window’s integrity.
- Wind Resistance: Impact windows are also engineered to withstand strong winds. Their reinforced frames and secure seals help prevent wind infiltration, which can lead to increased pressure inside the home, potentially causing roof or structural damage.
- Security: In addition to their weather-resistant properties, impact windows provide an added layer of security against break-ins. The laminated glass is difficult to shatter, making it a deterrent to burglars.
You have two options when considering impact windows for your home:
Full Replacement: You can opt to replace your current windows with impact-rated ones. This ensures that your entire window system is designed to withstand severe weather conditions.
Retrofitting: Alternatively, you can choose to retrofit your existing window frames with impact-resistant glass. This involves removing the existing glass and installing laminated impact glass within your current window frames, provided that the frames are in good condition.
Impact windows offer a valuable layer of protection, helping to safeguard your home and its occupants during extreme weather events while also providing enhanced security year-round.
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Options for Impact Window Materials
There are three primary material choices available for impact window frames:
- Aluminum: Aluminum frames are known for their strength and durability while remaining lightweight. They are resistant to weather elements and have an aesthetically pleasing appearance. Aluminum frames are low maintenance and environmentally friendly as they are recyclable. However, they may require periodic painting to maintain their appearance.
- Vinyl: Vinyl frames are excellent insulators, providing high energy efficiency. They offer relatively low maintenance requirements and are cost-effective compared to other options. Vinyl frames are known for their energy performance, making them an attractive choice.
- Wood: Wood frames are outstanding insulators and offer both high energy efficiency and recyclability. However, they demand more maintenance compared to other materials. Without proper care, wood frames can be susceptible to rotting or warping over time.
Differences in Impact Window Frame Costs
The cost of impact windows can vary significantly depending on the type of frame material you choose:
- Wooden Frames: Impact windows with wooden frames typically range from $200 to $450 each. Wood is an excellent insulator, offering superior thermal performance compared to aluminum and vinyl alternatives.
- Aluminum Frames: Impact windows with aluminum frames are generally the most budget-friendly option, priced between $110 to $300 each. However, aluminum frames do not provide as much insulation as wood and may not have the same aesthetically pleasing appearance.
- Vinyl Frames: Impact windows with vinyl frames typically cost approximately $120 to $350 each. Vinyl frames come in a wide variety of colors and are known for their low maintenance requirements.
Options for Glazing in Impact Windows
When it comes to impact windows, there are two primary glazing choices to consider:
Laminated Glass: Laminated glass is composed of two sheets of glass held together by a layer of plastic film. This configuration enhances the glass’s ability to withstand impacts and remain intact, even if it cracks. Laminated glass is a popular choice for impact windows.
Insulated Laminated Glass: Insulated laminated glass takes it a step further by adding an extra pane of glass to the laminated unit. Between these glass layers, there is a hermetically sealed air space. This option is particularly beneficial in regions with colder climates, where there is a significant temperature difference of more than fifty degrees between the interior of the house and the external environment during the winter.
Why are Impact Windows Crucial?
Impact windows play a vital role in protecting your home, especially during severe weather events like hurricanes. Here’s why they are essential:
Preventing Wind Damage: When strong winds breach a property, they can inflict substantial harm to the roof and the overall structural integrity of the building. The force of the wind creates pressure that can have devastating consequences for the house.
Debris Protection: High winds can pick up debris and propel it forcefully against your home. Windows are often the most vulnerable points in a house, making them susceptible to damage from flying debris.
What Are the Additional Advantages of Impact Windows?
Impact windows offer a range of benefits beyond storm protection:
Enhanced Security: Impact windows are equipped with laminated glass that is significantly harder to break through compared to standard glass. This added security not only protects your home from potential break-ins but also provides peace of mind for you and your family.
Lower Energy Costs: Impact windows can contribute to lower energy bills by minimizing heat transfer. Insulated laminated glass with a Low-E coating helps regulate indoor temperatures, reducing the need for excessive heating or cooling. This energy efficiency not only saves you money but also reduces your carbon footprint.
Reduced Insurance Premiums: Many insurance companies offer discounts on homeowners’ insurance policies for homes with impact windows. This is because impact windows are proven to enhance a home’s resilience against storms and intruders, reducing the likelihood of costly claims.
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UV Ray Reduction: Laminated glass used in impact windows blocks a significant percentage of UV rays. This protection helps prevent fading and damage to interior furnishings, including carpets, furniture, and artwork, thus extending their lifespan and preserving their appearance.
Longevity: Impact windows are constructed to withstand the harshest weather conditions, making them more durable than standard windows. Their longevity means fewer maintenance and replacement costs over the years, ultimately saving you money.
Soundproofing: Laminated glazing not only blocks UV rays but also helps reduce noise transmission from the outside. This feature creates a quieter and more peaceful living environment, making your home more comfortable and enjoyable.
Improved Resale Value: Impact windows are considered an attractive feature for potential homebuyers. They offer an immediate upgrade in terms of safety, energy efficiency, and aesthetics. As a result, homes with impact windows typically command higher resale prices and attract more interest in the real estate market.
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes, more expensive insurance premiums are one consequence of not having impact windows. Additionally, you may experience higher noise levels and a lower resale value for your home.
Yes, you can consider retrofitting glazing to your existing windows, which significantly lowers the cost. However, this option is most cost-effective when your current window frames are in good condition. Another budget-friendly choice is using hurricane window film, which costs around $400 for 75 square feet and can cover up to ten windows. Installation can be a DIY project, but hiring a professional may cost $35-$80 per hour.
Both impact windows and hurricane shutters protect your home from debris damage during severe storms. Hurricane shutters are generally more affordable than full impact window replacement. However, they permanently alter the exterior appearance of your home, whereas impact windows do not. Impact windows are also a permanent installation, eliminating the need for setup before a storm. They offer additional benefits such as soundproofing and improved energy efficiency, which hurricane shutters do not provide. While impact windows require a larger initial investment, they offer long-term advantages.
Yes, impact windows typically provide an 80% Return on Investment (ROI) and represent excellent value for your money. They are attractive to potential buyers in hurricane-prone areas, offering benefits such as energy efficiency, soundproofing, and enhanced security.
Most window installations require professional expertise. However, if you are installing hurricane film, this is a DIY project that many competent individuals can manage. For impact windows, professional installation is crucial to ensure proper fitting and to avoid voiding the manufacturer’s warranty.
Assuming there are no complications, it typically takes between one and two hours to install a new impact window.