Are you considering installing impact windows in your home, but not sure what the cost would be? Impact windows are a great investment for homeowners looking for an extra layer of protection from high winds, hurricanes, and other extreme weather. But before you make the investment, it's important to understand the average cost of impact windows. In this article, we'll go over the typical factors that affect the cost of impact windows and give you a better idea of how much you can expect to pay. Impact windows are a great way to improve the security and energy efficiency of your home. But how much do they cost? Impact windows are made of high-impact glass and are designed to protect against damage caused by severe weather conditions, such as hurricane-force winds and flying debris.
They are also more energy efficient than traditional windows, helping to reduce energy bills.
Types of Impact Windows
: There are many different types of impact windows available, including single-hung, double-hung, casement, and sliding windows. Single-hung windows are the most common type and feature one movable sash, while double-hung windows feature two movable sashes. Casement windows are hinged at the side and open outward, and sliding windows move horizontally along tracks.Impact-Resistant Glass: Impact-resistant glass is a special type of glass that has been engineered to be stronger and more durable than standard glass. It is made up of two layers of glass separated by an interlayer of plastic that helps to absorb the force of an impact. Laminated glass is another type of impact-resistant glass that is composed of two or more layers of glass bonded together with a polymer interlayer. Tempered glass is a type of safety glass that is heat treated to be four times stronger than standard glass.
Installation Cost: The cost of installation for impact windows can vary depending on the complexity of the job and the type of window being installed. It is important to research local contractors to get accurate quotes for installation. To ensure quality workmanship, look for contractors who are certified by the American Architectural Manufacturers Association (AAMA) or National Fenestration Rating Council (NFRC).
Features
: The cost of impact windows can vary depending on the features you choose.Materials, size, style, colors, and other features can all affect the cost. Vinyl frames are generally less expensive than wood or aluminum frames, but they may not provide as much insulation or aesthetic appeal. Wood frames offer a classic look, but they require more maintenance than other materials. Aluminum frames are lightweight and durable, but they can be more expensive than other materials.
Window Brands: When shopping for impact windows, you should consider the different window brands available. Many window manufacturers offer their own lines of impact-resistant windows in various sizes and styles. It is important to research the different brands to find out which ones offer the best quality and value for your budget.
Local vs Online Stores
: Shopping for impact windows locally at home improvement stores can be convenient, but it may not be the most budget-friendly option.Online stores often offer lower prices than local stores due to lower overhead costs and larger product selection. However, it is important to check reviews before buying from an online store to ensure you are getting a quality product.
Financing Options
: For those looking to purchase impact windows on a budget, there are financing options available through some window manufacturers and retailers. Financing can help spread out the cost of your new windows over time and make them more affordable.Types of Impact Windows
Impact windows come in a variety of types, each with different features and benefits. The most popular types of impact windows include: single hung, double hung, casement, and sliding windows.Single hung impact windows are the most common type and feature one sash that is stationary while the other slides up and down. This type of window is great for ventilation, as it allows you to open the top sash while keeping the bottom one closed. Double hung impact windows feature two sashes that can slide up or down independently, allowing for more ventilation options. These windows also have tilt-in sashes, making them easy to clean. Casement impact windows are a great choice for areas with limited space, as they open outward from the side instead of up and down.
They also offer optimal ventilation and tight seals when closed. Sliding impact windows are similar to single hung windows, except that they slide from side to side instead of up and down. This type of window is ideal for larger openings, as it allows for maximum ventilation without taking up much space.
Where to Shop
When shopping for impact windows, you have the option of buying from local stores or online retailers. Local stores often carry a limited selection of window products, but they can provide more personalized service and advice.Online retailers usually offer a much wider selection of impact windows and often have the best prices. However, it can be difficult to determine quality when buying online. Before making a purchase, be sure to compare prices from different retailers. You should also research the quality of the windows and the reputation of the retailer. Local stores may have higher prices but they can provide more personalized service, while online retailers may have lower prices but can be hard to evaluate. For budget-friendly prices, consider shopping around for deals and discounts.
Many retailers offer seasonal discounts, so it pays to shop at the right time. You should also look for coupon codes or special offers that can help you save money on your purchase. Finally, keep in mind that impact windows are an investment, so it is important to choose quality products that will last for many years.
Window Brands
When it comes to impact windows, many homeowners find that choosing the right brand is just as important as picking the right style. Different brands will offer different prices, features, and quality.Here are some of the most popular window brands and their average costs:Andersen:Andersen is a trusted window manufacturer with a reputation for quality and longevity. Their impact windows come in a variety of styles and sizes, with prices ranging from $350 to over $1000.
Pella:
Another popular brand is Pella, which offers impact windows at a wide range of prices. The cost can vary from $500 to over $2500 depending on the window size and materials used.Simonton:
Simonton windows are known for their energy efficiency and affordability. The average cost of their impact windows ranges from $250 to $1000.Marvin:
Marvin is another top-rated window manufacturer that offers quality products at a higher price point.Their impact windows typically range in cost from $450 to $1500.
Jeld-Wen:
Jeld-Wen windows are known for their durability and affordability. The average cost of their impact windows ranges from $300 to $1200. Ultimately, the best way to find the right window brand for your needs is to compare prices and features to ensure you get the most bang for your buck.Window Frame Materials
When it comes to selecting the frame material for your impact windows, there are several options to choose from. The most popular materials are vinyl, aluminum, and wood. Each has its own unique advantages and drawbacks, so it's important to weigh the pros and cons before making a decision.Vinyl Impact Windows
Vinyl is one of the most popular materials for impact windows, due to its affordability and durability.Vinyl is also lightweight, easy to install, and requires little maintenance. Vinyl windows are also energy-efficient, with some models offering energy ratings up to 45%. The downside is that vinyl can fade or discolor over time and is not as strong as other materials.
Aluminum Impact Windows
Aluminum impact windows are strong and durable, making them ideal for coastal areas where hurricanes are common. They're also energy-efficient, with some models boasting energy ratings of up to 40%.However, aluminum windows can be more expensive than other materials and are not as easy to install.
Wood Impact Windows
Wood impact windows offer a classic, timeless look that can enhance the aesthetic of any home. They're also highly durable and energy-efficient, with some models offering energy ratings up to 35%. The downside is that wood windows require more maintenance than other materials and can be more expensive.Financing Options
When it comes to financing impact windows, there are several options to consider. For example, you can choose to pay cash up front or finance the cost of your new impact windows with a loan.If you choose to pay cash, you will have the full amount due at the time of purchase. This is a great option for those who have the money saved up and can afford to pay for the entire cost upfront. If you don’t have the funds available to pay in full, you may want to look into taking out a loan. There are a few different types of loans that can help cover the cost of impact windows.
One option is to take out a home equity loan, which is based on the equity in your home. This type of loan requires collateral, so if you don’t make your payments, your home could be taken away from you. Another option is a personal loan, which doesn’t require collateral and can be used for any purpose. These loans usually have higher interest rates than home equity loans but can also help cover the cost of your new impact windows.
Finally, there are also credit cards that you can use to finance your impact windows. These cards typically have higher interest rates than other forms of financing, but they can be a great option if you don’t qualify for a loan or don’t have enough saved up to pay in full. In conclusion, impact windows are a great way to improve the security and energy efficiency of your home, but the cost may be a bit of a deterrent. Homeowners should research different types of impact windows, window frame materials, window brands, and where to shop for budget-friendly prices. Financing options are also available for those who need help covering the cost.
By doing their research, homeowners can find the best option for their needs.
