Why This Guide Matters for Florida Homeowners
Florida is one of the most storm-exposed states in the country, making features like impact windowsessential for homeowners. Its location in the Atlantic hurricane basin means that nearly every homeowner must plan for high winds, heavy rain, and flying debris. Since 1851, Florida has experienced over 120 direct hurricane hits, more than any other U.S. state, according to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA).
But hurricanes aren’t the only concern anymore.
More Than Just Storms: Why the Stakes Are Rising
Living in Florida now means dealing with:
- Rising insurance premiums: Many homeowners across the state are seeing sharp increases in home insurance rates. According to the latest Home Insurance Projection report from Insurify, Florida’s average home insurance rate reached $10,996 in 2023.
- Increasing frequency of severe weather: The intensity and unpredictability of storms are increasing. In 2022, Hurricane Ian caused over $112 billion in damages, making it the third-costliest storm in U.S. history.
- Pressure from new building codes: Florida’s building codes continue to evolve. More municipalities are now requiring impact-resistant products on new construction or during home upgrades, especially in areas designated as High-Velocity Hurricane Zones (HVHZ).
With these rising risks and costs, temporary storm solutions, like plywood panels or outdated shutters, are no longer enough. They often require manual setup, don’t provide year-round protection, and may not meet current insurance standards.
A Smarter Way to Protect and Upgrade Your Home
Impact windows offer more than just hurricane resistance. They’re designed to solve multiple problems at once:
- Protection during storms
- Improved energy efficiency
- Lower noise transmission
- Year-round UV filtering
- Increased home value
- Potential home insurance discounts
Professionally installed impact windows stay in place 24/7. They don’t need to be activated or removed and can’t rust or jam like older shutter systems.
Bigfoot Construction partners with Florida-based window manufacturers familiar with local weather conditions, building codes, and installation standards. We assist homeowners throughout the process—from choosing the right products to completing the final inspection—while keeping both cost and code compliance in focus.
What You’ll Learn Here
This discussion aims to help homeowners understand:
- What impact windows are made of, and how do they protect homes
- The different types of impact windows available
- How impact window installation works in Florida’s climate and building system
- What to expect in terms of cost, timelines, and insurance savings
- Why working with reliable impact window companies makes a difference
Whether you’re new to Florida or have lived here your whole life, the need for strong, lasting home protection is clearer than ever. Choosing the right impact windows in Florida is no longer just a home improvement project. It’s a smart decision to protect your property and control long-term costs.
What Are Impact Windows And Why Florida Homes Need Them
Impact windows offer a reliable upgrade for Florida homeowners, providing strong protection during severe weather events such as hurricanes and wind-driven debris. These windows are built to meet Florida Building Code standards, withstand wind speeds above 110 mph, and pass ASTM missile impact tests. They help strengthen homes located in both coastal and inland areas.
Florida has experienced over 120 hurricane landfalls since 1851. With storm intensity increasing, long-term solutions like impact windows are a practical alternative to temporary storm panels. These windows help reduce the risk of structural damage during extreme weather, which can lower repair expenses and insurance claims.
Impact windows—especially those with Low-E coatings and insulated glass—can reduce cooling energy use by up to 30%, according to the U.S. Department of Energy, depending on existing window quality and home design. These features directly respond to the environmental demands of Florida homes. Their design supports greater comfort, durability, and property value in high-risk areas such as Miami-Dade, Broward, and Palm Beach counties.
Hidden Costs of Delaying Impact Window Installation
Impact window installation is an investment in protection, not just an upgrade.
Delaying impact window installation in Florida can lead to severe financial, structural, and safety risks. With hurricane seasons growing more intense, homes with standard windows face increased exposure to wind damage, water intrusion, mold growth, and roof failure. Events like Hurricanes Ian and Irma have shown that unprotected homes often suffer costly and long-lasting damage—damage that could have been reduced or prevented with properly installed impact windows.
Postponing impact window upgrades may result in higher insurance premiums and reduced property value. Florida homeowners may receive insurance premium discounts—typically 10–15%, and in some cases up to 20%—for certified wind mitigation features like impact windows. Additionally, in highly competitive real estate markets such as Miami-Dade, homes with certified impact windows command higher resale values and sell faster, making these upgrades essential for both protection and marketability.
Florida’s evolving building codes and hurricane exposure make impact windows a functional requirement—not an optional luxury. State and county regulations, especially in High-Velocity Hurricane Zones (HVHZ), demand code-compliant window protection. Trusted contractors like Bigfoot Construction install certified products from top-rated manufacturers such as ES Windows, CGI, and Mr. Glass—helping homeowners meet code, qualify for insurance discounts, and strengthen their homes against increasingly destructive storm seasons.
Anatomy of Quality: What Makes a Superior Impact Window
Homeowners often ask, “Why do some impact windows cost so much more than others when they all look the same?” It’s a fair question—and one that deserves a clear answer.
While most impact windows in Florida may look alike from a distance, what you’re really paying for is what’s inside the glass and behind the frame. True quality starts with how the window is built, how it performs under stress, and whether it meets the demands of Florida’s severe weather codes.
What’s Inside a Real Impact Window?
A properly built impact window includes more than just thick glass. It’s a full system of tested, reinforced components designed to hold up against hurricanes, debris, pressure shifts, and constant heat.
Here’s what separates a high-performing impact window from a basic one:
1. Laminated Impact Glass
This is the core feature of all impact windows. It consists of two panes of glass bonded together with a clear, flexible interlayer—often polyvinyl butyral (PVB). When struck by debris, the glass may crack, but the interlayer keeps the pieces intact and sealed. This helps keep water, wind, and pressure out.
According to the Federal Alliance for Safe Homes (FLASH), impact windows can resist wind speeds up to 200 mph, depending on construction and installation. That’s stronger than a Category 5 hurricane.
2. Reinforced Frames
The frame holds everything together during high-pressure wind cycles. It’s often the first point of failure when a product is poorly made. Florida homes demand frame materials that are both strong and resistant to salt air, humidity, and UV exposure.
Popular frame options for Florida homes:
- Vinyl – Affordable, low maintenance, and energy-efficient. Best for inland and suburban properties.
- Aluminum – Lightweight and strong, ideal for homes near the coast where corrosion resistance is key.
- Fiberglass – Extremely durable, with low thermal expansion and high energy performance. Works well in both modern and traditional builds.
- Wood – Offers a traditional look and solid insulation. However, it requires more maintenance in Florida’s humid climate.
3. UV and Energy Efficiency Coatings
Good impact windows aren’t just about storm protection. They also block up to 99% of UV rays, helping to preserve your flooring, furniture, and interior surfaces. Many high-performance models also come with Low-E (low emissivity) coatings that help reflect heat and reduce cooling costs.
Homeowners can save up to 30% on energy bills by installing impact windows with insulated glass and energy coatings.
Built to Florida Code: Not All Windows Qualify
Florida has some of the toughest building codes in the nation—and for good reason. Areas like Miami-Dade County and other parts of South Florida fall within HVHZ (High-Velocity Hurricane Zones), where products must be tested against both ASTM E1996 and ASTM E1886 standards.
These codes test windows against:
- Wind-borne debris impacts
- Rapid pressure shifts (mimicking hurricane-force gusts)
- Water intrusion under sustained wind
Only windows with these certifications qualify for installation in HVHZ areas, and only approved products will help pass wind mitigation inspections (which can reduce insurance premiums by up to 20%).
Trusted Florida Window Manufacturers: What Bigfoot Construction Uses
We don’t just install impact windows—we vet every product line we offer. Bigfoot Construction works with Florida window manufacturers and trusted national brands that specialize in products engineered for local climate conditions and code compliance. These include:
- Mr. Glass Windows and Doors – Known for high-impact resistance and clean, modern design options.
- ES Windows – Offers high-performance hurricane-rated systems built for Florida’s toughest zones.
- CGI Impact Windows – A widely trusted Florida manufacturer with options for both residential and commercial applications.
- Eco Window Systems – Delivers practical, cost-effective solutions with a focus on energy performance.
- Marvin – A nationally recognized brand that produces impact-rated windows with energy-efficient features and premium finishes.
- Eurocraft Windows – Specializes in luxury hurricane-impact products with modern European-inspired design and performance engineering.
Each of these impact window companies provides product lines that meet or exceed Florida building code standards, including ASTM E1996/E1886 and HVHZ compliance, where required.
The real value of a high-quality impact window lies in the materials, testing, and installation—not just how it looks in the showroom. With hurricanes growing stronger and insurance costs on the rise, Florida homeowners need more than just a quick fix. They need a lasting solution built for the realities of the region.
At Bigfoot Construction, we install impact windows designed to meet this standard—protecting your home while also upgrading its comfort, efficiency, and long-term value.
The Installation Process: What Homeowners Should Expect from Start to Finish
Many Florida homeowners want the protection that impact windows offer—but they’re hesitant to begin. Some worry about the mess, others about delays or having to rearrange their daily routines. These concerns are valid. But when installation is done properly, the process is much more manageable than expected.
- In-Home Consultation Based on Florida Wind Zones and Construction Requirements
Bigfoot Construction starts each impact window installation with a free, no-obligation in-home consultation. During the visit, the team reviews the home’s current window setup, taking into account Florida’s High-Velocity Hurricane Zone (HVHZ) classifications and wind zone ratings. Homeowners receive clear information on available frame materials—vinyl, aluminum, or fiberglass—and laminated glass options that align with structural standards and insurance requirements. All recommendations are based on the property’s layout and budget.
- Accurate Measurements and Products from Local Manufacturers
After the consultation, Bigfoot Construction conducts precise measurements of each window opening to meet Florida’s building codes. This is especially important in counties with strict enforcement, including Miami-Dade and Broward. The team calculates wind load requirements and selects approved products rated for impact resistance and energy performance. Bigfoot Construction works only with manufacturers based in Florida, including ES Windows, CGI, and Mr. Glass—brands that produce impact-rated windows suited to the state’s weather and building demands.
- Permit Processing and HOA Documentation Management
Bigfoot Construction handles all required permit applications on behalf of the homeowner, including submission and follow-up with local building departments. For homes under a homeowners association (HOA), the team communicates directly with HOA representatives to submit necessary documents, such as product specifications, finish samples, and work timelines. This process helps move projects forward in compliance with both municipal and community rules.
- Licensed Installation and Final Inspection
Licensed contractors complete the installation according to Florida building codes and manufacturer instructions. The work is scheduled room by room to reduce disruption, with protective coverings used to shield flooring and furniture. Most installations take one to three days and include sealing around frames to block air and water intrusion. After installation, a municipal inspector reviews the work for compliance with Florida Building Code requirements. Homeowners also receive written warranties covering both the window products and installation labor.
DIY vs. Pro Install: Why Florida Homes Require Certified Expertise
Why Going DIY Can Backfire—Even If You’re Handy
Installing windows in Florida isn’t just about cutting an opening and placing glass. It’s about meeting strict building codes designed to protect homes from hurricane-level threats. For impact windows, the margin of error is narrow. Improper installation can lead to serious structural failure during a storm—even if the window itself is strong.
Many homeowners try to cut costs by going the DIY route or hiring unlicensed help. But here in Florida, that decision can come with much higher risks than expected. A common issue is failing a post-installation inspection due to missing permits or code violations. According to the Florida Building Code (FBC), impact window installation must follow specific standards—especially in High-Velocity Hurricane Zones (HVHZ) like Miami-Dade and Broward counties.
Code-compliant installation is not optional. Improperly installed impact windows may:
- Void product warranties from Florida window manufacturers
- Fail during a storm due to weak sealing or fastener mistakes
- Lead to fines or forced tear-outs from code enforcement
- Disqualify your home from insurance premium discounts
These risks often don’t surface until it’s too late. For example, in Pinecrest and surrounding areas, some failed DIY installs have resulted in entire window systems being ripped out and redone at full cost—after homeowners thought they had saved money upfront.
What Licensed Impact Window Companies Bring to the Table
Licensed and insured impact window companiesin Florida understand the unique structural and weather-related demands of local homes. They work with approved products, pull the right permits, and follow the required engineering guidelines.
At Bigfoot Construction, we are a fully licensed, bonded, and insured contractor serving Miami-Dade and other hurricane-prone zones. Our team knows how to handle each step properly—from site inspection to secure fastening to final walkthrough with inspectors. We also work with trusted Florida window manufacturers to provide window systems that meet or exceed ASTM E1996 and E1886 impact resistance standards.
Why Certification Matters More Than Ever
In Florida, certified installation does more than protect your house. It qualifies your home for wind mitigation credits, which can reduce homeowners insurance by up to 20%, depending on your provider. But you only get that benefit if the installation passes inspection.
Certified installation also strengthens your home’s long-term value. Buyers today are looking for homes with verified, long-term safety upgrades—not makeshift fixes. The difference between a licensed install and a DIY project often shows up in appraisal values, buyer confidence, and time on the market.
ROI and Real Benefits: Why Impact Windows Pay Off Long-Term
Installing impact windows in Florida offers measurable financial and protective returns, making them a smart long-term investment for homeowners in high-risk hurricane zones. Verified wind mitigation upgrades, such as hurricane-rated windows, can qualify for insurance premium discounts of up to 20%, significantly accelerating the return on investment through annual savings.
Energy-efficient impact windows reduce heat transfer and can lower cooling costs by up to 30%, according to the U.S. Department of Energy, which is critical in Florida’s hot, humid climate. Features such as insulated glass and low-emissivity coatings contribute to year-round comfort and reduced air conditioning use, resulting in long-term utility bill savings.
Homes equipped with storm-rated impact windows often command higher resale values and sell faster in Florida’s competitive real estate market. Buyers are drawn to properties that offer enhanced protection, lower insurance costs, and compliance with the Florida Building Code — all of which contribute to increased property value and marketability.
Beyond storm protection, impact windows provide enhanced everyday living through superior noise reduction, UV protection, and improved indoor temperature control. These benefits contribute to better sleep, reduced wear on home interiors, and an overall quieter, more comfortable home environment.
What to Expect From Your Bigfoot Impact Window Experience
Smart Protection Without the Guesswork
Florida homes face year-round exposure to storms, wind-driven debris, heat, and break-in risks. That’s why the impact window installation experience should be built around preparation, clarity, and results—not confusion or shortcuts. At Bigfoot Construction, we focus on a straightforward approach that helps homeowners feel secure and well-informed from start to finish.
Transparent Process, Step by Step
Our process starts with a simple appointment. Once scheduled, we visit your home, measure precisely, and guide you through your window options—based on your location, home type, and wind-zone category.
From the initial consultation through the final walkthrough, we share every step with you. Homeowners often tell us that this level of clarity helps them feel confident about the work being done. You’ll know what’s happening, when it’s happening, and why it matters.
Unlike quick installs or mass-market offers, we prioritize quality at every stage. That includes prep, framing, sealing, and testing the completed window system for durability and compliance with Florida’s hurricane impact standards.
Access to Premium Florida Window Manufacturers
We work closely with Florida window manufacturers who understand the state’s unique climate. These manufacturers design products that meet—or exceed—the strict codes required by counties like Miami-Dade and Broward. That means your impact windows are built for real Florida weather, not just basic performance ratings.
Using tested and approved brands allows us to deliver high-performance results that comply with ASTM E1886 and E1996 standards—the same standards used to rate windows for missile-impact and wind pressure resistance.
Fact: The Florida Building Code requires windows in high-velocity hurricane zones (HVHZ) to pass pressure and impact tests before approval. Installing windows without this rating means you’re not protected—and you may not qualify for insurance discounts.
Backed by Warranty and Long-Term Support
All our impact windows come with manufacturer warranties—and our installation work is also backed by labor coverage. If something doesn’t work as expected, or if a problem shows up later, we respond promptly and handle the resolution ourselves.
This is where many impact window companies fall short. Some outsource their warranty claims or don’t return once the job is done. We stay involved—because protecting your home isn’t just about installing the right materials. It’s also about being available when you need follow-up support.
We also help clients prepare for their wind mitigation inspections—an important step to access discounts from home insurance providers. Florida law requires insurers to offer premium reductions for homes with wind-resistant features, including impact windows. Many homeowners receive insurance discounts of 10–20% after passing a certified inspection.
The Bottom Line: Protect Your Family, Lower Your Costs, and Raise Home Value
Impact windows are more than just a storm upgrade. They help cut energy bills, reduce outside noise, block UV damage, and improve home value. Florida’s weather isn’t getting any calmer — and waiting to install protection could cost more than you expect.
Ready to Move Forward?
We invite you to:
- Schedule your free consultation – Let’s assess what works best for your home.
- Explore our impact window gallery – See the design and material options available.
- Ask about financing and available grants – Flexible options are available for qualified homeowners.
Call us today at(786) 312-1014 or send a message to admin@bfcmiami.com to get started.
Bigfoot Construction is here to help protect what matters most — your home and your family.