Homeowners must consider top impact window replacement brands when contacting a hurricane windows & doors company. Plus, you have to consider hiring a contractor to ensure a quality investment. Another factor to consider is your location; for example, if you live in Pinellas County, FL, or near coastal towns such as Clearwater, your house is prone to storm damage. High winds, flying debris, and water damage can happen when a storm hits, and the hardship can be overwhelming.
Although safety has no sticker price, you may need to consider your budget. It would help to protect your home at a fair price. For example, impact window replacements can protect your home from high winds, debris, and occasional burglars. Only a crack in your window can compromise the structure of your home, as well as the valuables inside.
If you're in the market for hurricane-impact windows and doors, then we can help you. But first, the five most popular, respected, and dependable impact window replacement brands are discussed. So, the top five impact-resistant window brands below will assist you in protecting your home from hurricane winds.
Here are the Top Impact Window Brands for Installations
- Andersen
- Jeld-Wen ImpactGard®
- PGT Custom Windows and Doors
- Simonton Windows
- CGI Windows
Andersen Window Replacements & Installations
Andersen Windows is one of the window industry's oldest and most trusted brands. It has been making windows since 1903 and has a legacy of quality and craftsmanship. Its impact windows are made of durable Fibrex composite, stronger than vinyl and wood. They also have a Low-E glass coating that reduces heat transfer and UV rays. Andersen offers a 20-year product warranty and a transferable, limited warranty on the glass.
Andersen makes impact storm windows under their Storm Watch line of items. This company stands apart from regular ones by offering a variety of window styles and designs while also offering impact-resistant glass. Their product line offers the A-Series, the E-Series, and the 400 Series.
- A-Series focuses on the sturdiest protective features.
- E-Series brings many designs, with more than 50 design choices.
- The 400 series deals with a more affordable option.
- Glass choices include insulation, UV resistance, tinting, and noise reduction.
Jeld Wen ImpactGard® Protection for Windows Benefits
Protect your home against the elements with the best impact window replacement brands from JELD-WEN. Designed to withstand heavy rain, strong winds, and severe temperature fluctuations, these windows offer peace of mind despite nature's unpredictability. Ensure your home's safety and comfort, no matter the weather, with JELD-WEN's reliable window solutions.
- Impact Resistance: ImpactGard® protection is designed to withstand strong impacts from windborne debris, with the ability to resist a nine-pound piece of lumber striking the glass at approximately 34 miles per hour.
- Safety: In the event of glass breakage during severe weather, the fragments adhere to the interlayer, reducing the risk of injury and maintaining the window's structural integrity.
- Building Code Compliance: Windows with ImpactGard® protection meet some of the nation's toughest building codes, ensuring compliance in areas prone to severe weather conditions.
- Forced-Entry Deterrence: The interlayer used in ImpactGard® windows increases resistance to forced entry, making break-ins less likely due to the difficulty of penetrating the glass.
- UV Protection: ImpactGard® technology blocks up to 95% of harmful UV rays, protecting the interior of homes from sun damage.
- Noise Reduction: The laminated glass technology in ImpactGard® windows reduces sound transmission, contributing to a quieter home environment.
- Energy Efficiency: Beyond storm protection, ImpactGard® windows contribute to home energy efficiency, helping to reduce heating and cooling costs.
PGT Custom Window Brand is Top 3
This company has become one of the best in impact-resistant windows and doors. Most hurricane-resistant windows and doors in Florida were constructed by these makers, a trusted brand for windows & doors for homes.
PGT's Win Guard impact-resistant windows and doors can withstand the extreme force of storms. Plus, their impact glass can protect against dangerous winds and prevent a would-be burglar from entering your home.
They likewise help with noise reduction, such as high winds, passing cars, loud dogs, etc. PGT impact windows likewise help lower your energy bill. These energy-efficient windows can reduce your energy bills and protect your home, adding to your home's value.
PGT Win Guard Aluminum 700 Series-PGT Window Designed can exceed even the most rigid local, national, and international building norms. Yes, PGT's Win Guard Aluminum 700 Series impact windows offer protection against extreme climate conditions, including:
- Reduce energy bills
- Intruder prevention
- Corrosion
- Air infiltration
- Noise reduction
PGT impact window installations offer perhaps the best warranty in the business and have been extensively tested under various standards. Thus, you'll struggle to find a line of items that provide so much serenity.
The Win Guard Aluminum 700 Series brings fixed architecture, casement, horizontal rollers, picture, and single-hung windows. So, this variety of window options can meet your requirements—and if aluminum doesn’t fit your home, consider WinGuard Vinyl series products.
Simonton Windows
Simonton Windows is another well-known brand that offers high-quality impact windows. It has been in business since 1946 and has won several awards for its products and services. Its impact windows are made of premium vinyl frames and tempered glass that can withstand extreme weather conditions.
They also offer various options for energy efficiency, noise reduction, and security. Plus, they offer a lifetime product warranty and a double-lifetime warranty on the glass.
CGI Windows
CGI Windows Company brings many years of experience in quality impact windows to its clients, making it one of the nation's most trustworthy makers of hurricane-resistant windows. In addition, CGI Windows has taken steps to address the issues of homeowners and business owners regarding price points and aesthetic desires.
They have been in business since 1992 and have a reputation for excellence and innovation. Their impact windows have heavy-duty aluminum frames and laminated glass that can resist impacts from flying objects and intruders. They also have a variety of styles and colors to suit any home design. They offer a 10-year product warranty and a lifetime warranty on the glass.
Casement Window Series 7300
CGI Window Series 7300 brings an unhindered view, unmatched ventilation, and the capability of a practical impact-resistant casement window. The Casement Window Series 7300 features include:
- Stainless steel hardware
- Aluminum-reinforced framing
- Variety of finishes
- Many glass choices
- Besides features that match your stylish and valuable needs, this is an incredible option for your next remodeling project.
CGI pays close attention to style considerations, just as it does to impact resistance. Therefore, if you need the perfect window for your home but want something aesthetically pleasing, this is one of the window series you'll need to consider.
Pella Hurricane Impact-Resistant Windows
Designed and tested to withstand Florida's harsh weather and strict local coastal requirements, Pella's hurricane-impact windows and patio doors assist with guarding your home and everything inside. No extra storm preparation is required; just close and lock them.
Pella Hurricane Shield Series impact windows are tested by shooting a 2x4 piece of wood flying at 50 feet per second at the glass. They also test the window design on thousands of positive and negative pressure cycles.
Although a sturdy frame is essential for effective resistance, proper installation is recommended for best performance. Therefore, select Pella impact-resistant windows with pre-drilled holes, guaranteeing the right installation, best performance, and serenity. Pella impact windows require no extra storm planning or ladders.
Marvin Impact Windows
Marvin has built a reputation for combining fiberglass durability with a more architectural, high-end look, making it a popular choice for homeowners who want storm protection without sacrificing curb appeal. Their impact-rated lines are engineered to meet Florida's toughest coastal codes while offering strong energy performance.
- Fiberglass and wood-fiberglass hybrid frame options
- Wide range of custom shapes and finishes
- Strong warranty coverage on both frame and glass
Learn more about Marvin's impact-resistant window options.
Impact Window Brand Comparison
| Brand | Frame Material | Glass Type | Warranty |
|---|---|---|---|
| Andersen | Fibrex composite | Low-E, laminated impact glass | 20-year product; transferable limited glass warranty |
| JELD-WEN (ImpactGard®) | Vinyl or composite | Laminated glass with protective interlayer | Limited lifetime on most residential lines |
| PGT (WinGuard®) | Aluminum or vinyl | Laminated insulating glass | Limited lifetime frame; 10-year laminated glass |
| Simonton | Vinyl | Tempered, impact-rated glass | Lifetime product; double-lifetime glass |
| CGI Windows | Heavy-duty aluminum | Laminated impact glass | 10-year product; lifetime glass |
| Pella | Vinyl, wood, or fiberglass | Laminated impact glass | Limited lifetime on most impact lines |
| Marvin | Fiberglass / wood-fiberglass hybrid | Laminated impact glass | Limited warranty on frame and glass (varies by line) |
Note: warranty terms change periodically—always confirm current terms directly with the manufacturer or your installer before purchase.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best impact window brand for Florida homes?
PGT and CGI are the most widely installed brands in Florida because their aluminum-framed lines are built specifically for high-velocity hurricane zones (HVHZ) and coastal salt-air exposure. Andersen and Pella are strong alternatives if energy efficiency and design flexibility matter as much as storm protection.
Are impact windows required by Florida building code?
Impact-rated windows or shutters are required in the Florida Building Code's wind-borne debris regions, which include most of Pinellas County. Homes built or renovated in these zones must meet minimum design pressure and impact resistance standards.
Do impact windows lower homeowners insurance?
Many Florida insurers offer premium discounts for homes with certified impact windows, since they reduce the risk of storm-related claims. Savings vary by carrier and county, so ask your insurance agent for a wind mitigation credit estimate.
Vinyl vs. aluminum impact window frames—which is better?
Aluminum frames are stronger and thinner, making them popular for larger openings and contemporary homes. Vinyl frames insulate better and typically cost less, making them a good fit for homeowners prioritizing energy efficiency and budget.
Impact Windows for Clearwater & Pinellas County Homes
Homes in Clearwater and along Pinellas County's coastline fall within Florida's wind-borne debris region, meaning code-compliant impact windows aren't optional in many cases—they're required for new construction and major renovations. Coastal exposure also means salt air accelerates frame corrosion faster than inland areas, so material choice matters more here than in most parts of the state.
For most Clearwater homeowners, aluminum-framed brands like PGT and CGI hold up best against salt-air corrosion, while vinyl options like Simonton offer a lower-cost path to code compliance for homes slightly further from the coastline. Crystal Clear Windows and Doors installs all major brands and can help match the right product line to your home's specific wind zone and budget.
Conclusion: Top 5 Impact Window Replacement Brands
Hurricane windows and doors can have high prices, but the safety of your home and family doesn’t have a price. Thus, don't get cheap in terms of security and safety. Instead, pick one of your home's top 5 impact window replacement brands.
At Crystal Clear Windows and Doors, we can install any impact window and door brand. Therefore, protecting your home from Florida's harsh storm conditions, besides reducing noise inside your home, helps lower your energy bill and prevent a burglar from breaking a window.
Are you ready to increase your home value, protect your family, and get a discount in Pinellas County? Then, give us a call for a free in-home window estimate!
