Can I Install Hurricane Impact Windows as a DIY Project?

Many of our talented and handy customers enjoy the challenge of taking on DIY projects; they provide a sense of satisfaction, a creative outlet, and often can help homeowners save money on costly renovations. In spite of this, when customers ask if we recommend installing hurricane impact windows as a DIY project, the answer is always the same – a resounding “no”. While some home renovations make fantastic DIY projects, installing hurricane impact windows is best left for the professionals. Here are some reasons why:

• If you mismeasure a project involving wood or tile, you can recut the wood / tile or buy another piece to correct the mistake. That approach won’t work for hurricane impact windows. The windows have to fit exactly into the space allotted for them. If you measure the space and are off by even a few hundredths of an inch, you won’t be able to properly install the window, causing a very costly error.
• Hurricane impact windows are both heavy and bulky, making installation difficult for a nonprofessional. Minimally, two strong people are necessary to install each window. If you are installing a window on the second story of a home, the task will become exponentially harder since either you or your partner will have to balance on a ladder while holding and positioning the window.
• Each window manufacturer provides detailed instructions about how to install and seal its windows. If the instructions are not followed exactly, the window will not provide the protection you need during a storm, compromising the structural integrity of your home. Moreover, regardless of the weather, an improperly-installed window could fall out, injuring or killing someone beneath it.
• The manufacturer of your hurricane impact windows likely provided a warranty to protect your investment in the windows. If the windows are not installed by a licensed professional, the warranty may be voided.

For all of these reasons, installing hurricane impact windows as a DIY project is not a good idea. When you are researching professionals to install the windows for you, some tips to keep in mind are:

• Make sure the professional is licensed and carries both general liability insurance and workers compensation insurance.
• Check the Better Business Bureau for any major past complaints or issues from other customers.
• Ask the professional to provide references from recent customers.
• The professional should provide you with a contract in writing specifying the price and payment schedule – this protects both you and the installer in case issues arise later on.

One professional to put at the top of your list is CitiQuiet Windows and Doors. We are a full-service company that offers one-stop shopping and installation for hurricane impact windows and doors. We will visit your home, review your window options with you, order the windows, secure permits, install the windows, clean up afterwards, and work with the city on the inspection. All you have to do is give us a call to start the process.

Since 2012, CitiQuiet Windows and Doors has been engineering and installing high-quality impact windows, doors, and shutters for residential and commercial buildings throughout Palm Beach, Broward, and Miami-Dade Counties. 

Based in Boca Raton, CitiQuiet Windows and Doors offers a turnkey service to clients including initial design, engineering, permitting, installation and finish work.  From elegant French doors to hurricane impact-resistant windows and sliding glass doors, CitiQuiet Windows and Doors has your solution. 

At CitiQuiet Windows and Doors, we carry only the highest-quality products from the nation’s top manufacturers – and we stand behind everything we sell.  For a free estimate, contact CitiQuiet Windows and Doors at 561-241-9463, visit us atcitiquiethurricanewindows.com,  or stop by the showroom today at 6530 West Rogers Circle, Suite 29, Boca Raton, FL 33487.

With an A+ rating from Better Business Bureau (BBB), CitiQuiet Windows and Doors consistently strives to exceed customer expectations.