When deciding to upgrade to impact windows and doors, the quality of the installation is even more important than what product you choose. Even the highest quality product with a sub-par installation will not provide protection for your home and family, can cause costly repairs, and likely won’t even pass required building inspections. This will need more time and money to correct. 

As the South Florida hurricane impact window and door industry has grown, it has become harder to decide which window and door installation company is the best one for your project. While there are several factors that may help you vet a contractor, we've outlined detailed information that can help show what makes a high-quality impact window and door installation different. 

The Team

An installation of the highest quality depends on the whole team involved in the project.

Sales Consultants: The sales consultant must verify the facts about your project that will determine the best products to use, like the material used to construct your home and what kind of window frame will be needed for that material.  Did you know that different windows must be used for wood-frame homes than CBS homes? It’s crucial that the sales consultant chooses the correct frame type.

Final Measure Technician: Not every impact window and door company has a Final Measure Technician, but those that do (like WDRC) understand that ordering a custom-made product that is within 1/16” of the existing product is the best way to ensure a timely installation. It also prevents the need for additional materials to pad the opening, like adding extra plywood or shims, if the window ordered does not fit properly.

Project Manager: The project manager ensures that all aspects of the project are operating to company standards. This can include what materials are being used during installation, what in-home protection is being used, and making sure all documentation is ready for building inspections.

Installation Crews: Installation crews should be well-versed in every aspect of a project. This means they should know the requirements for the proper installation of the product you choose as well as for the building type. Installing a sliding glass door in a single-family home is not the same as installing one in a high-rise condo where you must consider factors like balconies and possible post-tension cables.

The Materials

An installation includes many more materials than just the windows and doors, and it is vital that these products are also the best available. Using high-quality waterproofing materials is the difference between leaks occurring a year after install. Composite shims eliminate the concern of wood shims warping and rotting within the frame. The correct tapcons are not only stronger and last longer, but are often required by the Florida Building Code in order to pass inspection and for the hurricane window or door to be approved for use.

Risks of a Poor Installation

If your impact windows and doors are not installed properly, there are several things that can go wrong:

  • Products failing in a storm
  • Leaks, stress cracks, and gaps
  • Pests
  • Failed Inspections, open permits, and fees

Upgrading to hurricane impact windows and doors is an investment, and deciding on an experienced installation partner is an essential part of that investment. To learn more about the installation process or request a quote,request a free consultation with one of our Design & Remodel Consultants.