Easy Steps to Installing a Florida Window and Door
Protecting your home with impact windows is vital if you live in an area prone to hurricane damage. These windows can help to reduce outside noise, protect your home from harmful UV rays, and improve energy efficiency.
However, installing these impact windows is a complex task. There are several things to consider, including getting a permit and hiring an experienced contractor.
Measure the Opening
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When installing a new Florida Window and Door, accurate measurements are essential. Incorrect measurements can make the window installation process much more complicated and potentially dangerous.
Impact-resistant windows offer superior protection against hurricanes and other natural disasters in Florida.
Measure the Frame
Florida homeowners should consider installing impact windows to help protect their homes from damaging wind-driven debris during a hurricane. These impact-rated windows can also reduce noise, provide protection from harmful UV rays and improve the home’s or office’s energy efficiency.
A wood-framed window should have a low U-factor rating to prevent heat loss and a low air leakage (AL) rating to limit hot or cold outside air infiltration. It should also be clad to protect the wood from weathering and corrosion.
Measure the Glass
Florida is known for its intense storms and hurricanes, so your windows must withstand high winds. To ensure this, your windows must be impact rated.
Start by measuring the width of your window opening from jamb to jamb, not incorporating trim strips or parting beads into your measurements. Then take three measurements from the center and choose the smallest width measurement. Write these measurements down in your window measurement form. It will help you keep them organized as you move along.
Install the Glass
While all of Florida must follow FBC requirements, specific areas, like South Florida’s High-Velocity Hurricane Zone (HVHZ), require more stringent impact products. Your chosen product must meet a higher wind rating than other products.
Use a carpenter’s level to ensure the window opening is level. Then, put a continuous bead of sealant around the outside of the frame to produce an airtight seal. It will prevent water and debris from entering your home during a storm.
Install the Weather Stripping
Today’s impact windows and doors are designed to protect your home around the clock from debris, pressure, and water infiltration. They also reduce exterior noise from traffic and other sources.
Window and door weather stripping is an easy and inexpensive way to cut energy costs by sealing air leaks. Use appropriate caulk for exterior projects and clean the area before applying.
Measure the sash and cut your weather stripping to size. The material should compress tightly when the sash is closed but open easily.
Install the Hardware
Having hurricane windows installed in your home can reduce noise, protect from harmful UV rays and improve the energy efficiency of your property. Additionally, many insurance companies offer discounts on homeowner’s insurance for homes that install impact-resistant windows.
Selecting an experienced installer in South Florida for this type of project is vital. Ask for recommendations from friends and family, and read online reviews to ensure you choose the right company. It will ensure your project is done correctly.
Install the Locks
Upgrading to impact-rated windows can protect your home from debris and reduce the risk of storm damage. It can also help lower your insurance rates. In Florida, it is required that all glazed openings in structures be either hurricane-resistant or protected with impact coverings like shutters or plywood.
Using a carpenter’s level, inspect that the sill track is ultimately level. Place shims throughout the window area at the mounting hole locations. Then, drive roof nails with a hammer to secure the new window.
Install the Sash
Using a utility knife, score along the frame, removing any putty or old rotting material. Remove sash weights and sash screws.
Use a carpenter’s level on the leading edge of the window to check that it is plumb. Drive roof nails with the installment fin to hold the window in location.
If you’re replacing an existing window, choose a pocket replacement window to maintain the size and shape of the current frame. This type of window is also more affordable than a full-frame replacement window.