If you are familiar with doing home improvement jobs yourself, then you should have no problem figuring out how to install hurricane windows on your home, however, there are many reasons why even though you could do it yourself, you may want to consider hiring a professional contractor to do the installation for you. Some of those reasons are:
- The window contractor will be able to help you choose the best type of hurricane windows to meet your needs
- They will complete the installation in less time than you would take as they are already familiar with installing these types of windows
- They can answer any question you may have as well
So why should a homeowner consider Hurricane Windows?
Well, since it is tax season, I think it’s a great time to mention that you can get a tax credit for buying energy efficient French doors for up to $500 and up to $200 for energy efficient windows and skylights. If you want to get impact windows it is important that you take some time to schedule an appointment with a window replacement contractor to see if your existing window frame can be used or if you have to replace that as well. An energy auditor can help you determine this as well. If your existing window frame is in good condition, then you may be able to place new impact windows inside of them. However, if they are damaged it would make more sense to just replace them with a new energy efficient frame.
One of the things you will need to decide on is whether or not you want to replace all your windows, if not, then you need to figure out which windows you would like to change so that you can maximize the solar exposure or heat impact. Another good reason for going with a professional window contractor is they will be able to tell you which windows are approved to be used in your national and local building and energy codes.
Here are a few popular choices that you could look into when you go shopping for energy efficient windows:
- For Casement or Awning windows you could consider Marvin All Ultrex Windows, these types of windows allow for installation with LoE3-366 glass, which will qualify for the energy tax credit because of the solar heat gain coefficient, which is either less than or equal to .30 and it has a good enough U-Value. Ultrex is about 8 times stronger than vinyl and it is a fiberglass product, so what that means is this type of window is a lot more durable so it can stand up to common routine issues like dinging, corrosion, warping, scratching and fading. As far as casement windows are concerned, you can custom order them in sizes of 1/64 of an inch increments, which basically means you can place them in practically any size space and depending on the model you can get them with folding handles.
- If you are looking for a window that can give you enough light to basically use solar heat to warm up a room and to reduce the amount of electric light that you have to use, then you may want to consider the Crestline CrestWood Window Products. This is available for both windows and patio doors such as French Doors and they are very durable as they are built to be resistant to both dents and scratches.
- And if you want a window that can provide both security and solar heat benefits, then you may want to consider the Hy-Lite Solar Block Windows which are 2 inches thick and are manufactured in 6-8 inch blocks. And another great feature is that they come with a 10 year limited manufacturer’s warranty.