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  • Best Hurricane-Resistant Home Upgrades for Florida Homes

    Best Hurricane-Resistant Home Upgrades for Florida Homes

    Hurricane season is a genuine concern for homeowners in Florida, where strong winds and torrential rains can cause extensive damage. Protecting your property starts with the right upgrades, such as hurricane home renovations beyond just windows and doors. There are many ways to safeguard your home, from installing hurricane windows and doors to upgrading with storm-resistant home upgrades and impact-resistant doors. Explore these options and learn how they can help prepare your home for the harshest storms.

    Understanding Hurricane Resilience

    True hurricane resilience goes beyond last-minute preparations like boarding up windows and stocking supplies. It’s about designing a home that stands strong against nature’s fury and recovers quickly afterward.

    Hurricanes bring a triple threat: howling winds, flying debris, and torrential rains that can lead to flooding. Older homes or those not built to modern codes often have weak spots that these forces exploit. Roofs might lift away in high winds, walls could crumble under flying debris, and poorly secured windows and doors will likely allow wind and water to breach the home.

    Smart hurricane home renovations address these vulnerabilities by focusing on key areas like roofs, walls, and openings. These storm-resistant home upgrades protect your property, reduce the risk of damage, and help you feel more secure.

    Key Hurricane Home Renovations

    Hurricane-rated windows and doors provide strong protection, but additional upgrades will enhance your home’s resilience. Let’s explore some of the most effective storm-resistant home upgrades.

    Reinforce Roof Structures

    Your roof endures the most intense forces during a hurricane. Hurricane straps and tie-downs secure it to your walls, reducing the risk of it tearing away in high winds. Strengthening soffits and fascia also prevents wind and water from entering these vulnerable points.

    Strengthen Exterior Walls

    Solid walls shield your home from debris and high winds. Upgrading to impact-resistant siding or reinforcing walls with structural sheathing creates a stronger barrier. These improvements increase your home’s resilience and enhance its overall durability.

    Secure Garage Doors

    Garage doors are often the largest and weakest openings in a home. Reinforcing kits can fortify existing doors, while hurricane-rated models provide better resistance against strong winds. Securing the garage door protects your home’s structural integrity and prevents pressure buildup.

    Landscape for Safety

    Your yard can either minimize or amplify storm damage. Choose wind-resistant plants and trees and keep them well-trimmed before hurricane season. Replace gravel or rocks with mulch to reduce the risk of debris becoming projectiles in high winds. Strategic landscaping adds an extra layer of safety.

    Upgrade to Impact-Resistant Windows & Doors

    Impact-resistant doors protect against flying debris and high winds. Their durable construction reinforces your home’s structural integrity and reduces the chance of storm-related breaches. Installing these doors ensures long-term resilience and peace of mind during severe weather.

    Beyond Structural Upgrades: Preparing for the Worst

    Structural upgrades like storm-resistant home improvements work best when paired with regular maintenance to keep them effective. Inspections catch potential weak points early, and timely repairs prevent small issues from becoming major problems.

    Hurricane windows and doors and impact-resistant doors work best when combined with a solid emergency plan. Stock up on essentials, know your evacuation routes, and prepare a communication plan. Mental preparedness and practical readiness go hand in hand with physical upgrades, ensuring you and your family stay safe during hurricane season.

    Safeguarding Your Florida Home

    Hurricanes are a reality for Florida homeowners, but preparation makes a significant difference. Investing in hurricane home renovations, such as storm-resistant home upgrades, hurricane windows and doors, and impact-resistant doors, protects your home and gives you peace of mind.

    Ready to fortify your home? Absolute Window & Door specializes in top-quality hurricane-rated impact resistant windows and doors. Call 941-485-7774 or request a consulation online. Together, we can ensure your home stands strong no matter what Mother Nature has in store.

     

    Image Credit: Kristi Blokhin

  • How To Prevent Saltwater Damage to Windows

    How To Prevent Saltwater Damage to Windows

    Living near the coast brings stunning views and fresh ocean air, but also creates challenges for homeowners—especially when maintaining windows. Salt air and high humidity can cause significant damage to windows over time. For homeowners near the coast, saltwater corrosion prevention windows and coastal window protection are essential to preserving their home’s safety and curb appeal. Discover practical tips and products like anti-corrosion windows to help protect your coastal home.

    Understanding Saltwater Corrosion on Coastal Windows

    Salt air and humidity accelerate window wear and tear. These elements settle on window frames and glass, creating conditions where metals corrode and materials weaken. Over time, rust, pitting, and discoloration develop, leaving windows less functional and less appealing. Without intervention, saltwater corrosion prevention windows become necessary to stop damage before it worsens.

    Signs of corrosion include discoloration, rough or pitted surfaces, and difficulty opening or closing windows. Glass etching, rust on frames, and weakened seals are also common. These issues can compromise the structural integrity of the windows, allowing moisture to seep into your home. At Absolute Window and Door, we specialize in solutions like coastal window protection and professional maintenance to keep windows looking and performing their best.

    Saltwater Corrosion Prevention for Windows

    Protecting your windows from saltwater corrosion requires consistent maintenance and the use of effective products like anti-corrosion windows. Here are some strategies to keep your windows in top condition.

    Regular Cleaning and Maintenance

    Frequent cleaning removes salt deposits that accelerate corrosion. Rinse windows with fresh water weekly to wash away buildup, and use a non-abrasive cleaner to scrub frames and glass. A soft-bristled brush targets areas where salt builds up, such as corners and joints.

    Regular cleaning protects your windows and helps you catch early signs of damage. Setting up a cleaning schedule ensures your windows stay clear and corrosion-free. Combined with other coastal window maintenance strategies, this habit adds years to your windows’ lifespan.

    Protective Coatings and Treatments

    Protective coatings shield windows from the effects of salt air. Anti-corrosion coatings create a barrier that prevents rust and pitting, extending the lifespan of your windows. These coatings are designed for harsh coastal environments and pair well with saltwater corrosion-prevention windows for added durability.

    Absolute Window and Door offers expert advice on applying protective treatments to meet your home’s unique needs. These coatings are especially effective when combined with professional cleaning and inspections.

    Choosing Corrosion-Resistant Materials

    Installing anti-corrosion windows made from corrosion-resistant materials is a smart investment. Aluminum and vinyl windows are excellent options for coastal homes, as they resist rust and require minimal upkeep. These materials provide long-lasting durability and keep your home looking great.

    Absolute Window and Door offers a wide selection of aluminum and vinyl windows designed specifically for coastal homes. Upgrading to these materials ensures you get the most value and protection for your investment.

    Coastal Window Maintenance Services

    Professional maintenance services extend the life of your windows by addressing damage early. Inspections help homeowners identify issues before they worsen, and regular maintenance ensures the longevity of saltwater corrosion prevention windows and anti-corrosion windows.

    Absolute Window and Door specializes in coastal window maintenance, offering cleaning, protective treatments, and repairs tailored to coastal homes. These services protect your investment and keep your windows performing their best.

    Protect Your Windows from Saltwater Corrosion

    Maintaining your windows is critical for coastal homes. Investing in saltwater corrosion prevention windows, anti-corrosion windows, and coastal window protection can safeguard your home and avoid costly repairs. For expert services, including coastal window maintenance, Absolute Window & Door is here to help.

    Call us at 941-485-7774 or visit us online to schedule your consultation. Let us help you keep your coastal windows in pristine condition.

     

    Image credit: Stephen Orsillo

  • Hurricane-Rated Doors vs Standard Doors: Why the Upgrades is Worth It

    Dealing with the Florida weather as a homeowner is a quest to see how much your home can take the constant heat, humidity, and threat of severe thunderstorms. However, there is a six-month span of time when we also must consider the power and fury of Mother Nature’s scariest and deadliest storms: hurricanes.

    When you own a home in Florida, you must think about the possibility that your home could be damaged because of a direct hit from a hurricane. That’s why you must consider hurricane-rated doors for your home. Trust us when we say that it’s not an expensive upgrade designed to get more money from you; these doors could save your life.

    Absolute Window and Door knows plenty about hurricane-rated doors. We want you to know that these doors provide peace of mind, protection, and can even upgrade your home’s sense of style. Let’s break it down.

    What To Know About Hurricane-Rated Doors

    Hurricane-rated doors are specially designed to withstand the intense forces of severe storms. Unlike standard doors, they’re built with reinforced materials and undergo

    These doors are crafted from solid materials like fiberglass, steel, and impact-resistant glass, making them much tougher than regular doors. Their robust construction protects your home and improves insulation and energy efficiency.

    Of course, depending on where you live in Florida, you may be dealing with state or local laws that mandate owning these types of doors. It’s always vital that you do your research ahead of any upgrades. Still, when a hurricane strikes, having a door that can withstand the fury of a storm could make the difference between life and death.

    Hurricane-Rated vs. Standard: A Tale of the Tape

    If this were an old boxing match, then it’s time that we go to the Tale of the Tape for a direct comparison between hurricane-rated and standard doors.

    Hurricane-rated doors are structurally designed to resist impacts from flying debris, thanks to their reinforced frames and tougher materials. On the other hand, standard doors can easily buckle or break under similar conditions, leaving your home vulnerable during a storm.

    Wind resistance is another key difference. While standard doors may struggle to stay sealed against strong winds, hurricane-rated doors are engineered to withstand intense pressure, keeping out the elements and maintaining the integrity of your home. This added protection also contributes to better energy efficiency, as these doors often feature superior insulation, potentially lowering your energy bills.

    Aesthetically, you don’t have to sacrifice style for safety. Hurricane-rated doors come in various designs and finishes, ensuring that your home remains beautiful and secure in the face of severe weather.

    So, Why Should I Upgrade to Hurricane-Rated Doors?

    Upgrading to hurricane doors offers plenty to homeowners seeking more from their doors. Of course, these doors are highly rated for protecting your home thanks to their construction and engineering. You virtually run no risk of your door failing during a hurricane or other severe storm.

    Many insurance companies also offer reduced premiums for homes that have these doors. Who can say no to long-term savings?

    Speaking of money, hurricane-rated doors can add more value to your home. In today’s market, you need every leg up on the other guys to make your home stand out. Added protection can be the one thing that gets your home sold quickly.

    But peace of mind is the greatest benefit of owning a hurricane-rated door. If you find yourself in a situation where you want to ride out a hurricane, you want a door that can stand between you and the dangerous flying debris.

    Choose Absolute for Your New Doors

    Absolute Window and Door is your new friend in Florida for the best brands in hurricane-rated doors. We work diligently with customers to ensure they get the best doors at affordable prices. Contact us today if you’re ready for something different with your doors!

  • Window & Door Maintenance Tips in Florida: Protecting Your Home from Heat & Humidity

    Taking care of your home in Florida involves cleaning it, repairing any issues that it may have, and keeping critical systems running so you can live comfortably. However, there’s one issue you may not even be thinking about.

    Owning a Florida home means living where the heat and humidity form a toxic marriage that can make outdoor excursions miserable. Still, think about how the exterior of your home must feel!

    Absolute Window and Door is here to tell you how to properly maintain your windows and doors in the soupy mess we like to call the Florida climate.

    Florida’s Climate: Heat, Humidity, and Misery

    It doesn’t take a meteorologist or a climatologist to tell you it gets hot in Florida – especially in the summer. It’s primarily due to the humidity that makes our tropical climate into something that makes you feel like you’re in a sauna.

    The tropical climate can wreak havoc on your doors and windows if you don’t maintain them properly. Condensation is a common issue, particularly on windows, where it can lead to moisture buildup and potential water damage. Contamination exposure degrades popular materials like wood, vinyl, and aluminum. As a result, materials can warp, swell, or corrode over time.

    But the heat is the other punch that can make things worse in your home. Because of the heat and the moist air, we have the perfect breeding ground for mold and mildew growth in your home.

    Understanding these basic principles can give you all the help you need to protect your home.

    So, What Do I Do to Help My Doors and Windows?

    Regular maintenance of your doors and windows can prevent many issues caused by humidity. Start by cleaning them with your favorite cleaning solution. Wipe down the frames and glass regularly to remove any grime and moisture.

    Next, inspect the seals and weatherstripping for cracks or gaps that allow moisture to enter. Replacing them may be necessary to maintain a tight seal. Lubricate moving parts like hinges, locks, and tracks to prevent rust and ensure smooth operation.

    Condensation management is also crucial here, so don’t be afraid to inspect your home for proper ventilation or buy a dehumidifier for added protection.

    Other Things to Consider

    Florida’s hurricane season brings added concerns for maintaining windows and doors. Consider upgrading to impact-resistant windows and doors, which offer enhanced protection during storms. If you already have these, keep them according to the manufacturer’s guidelines.

    Storm shutters are another layer of protection—regularly check and maintain these to ensure they function correctly when needed. However, even with diligent maintenance, some issues may require professional intervention. If you notice severe problems like extensive mold growth, significant warping, or damaged impact-resistant windows, it’s time to call in the experts.

    Absolute: Your Door and Window Experts

    At Absolute Window & Door, we specialize in helping Florida homeowners protect and maintain their windows and doors in challenging climates. Our team offers professional inspections, maintenance services, and repairs to ensure your windows and doors are in top shape. Don’t wait until minor issues become significant headaches—contact us today for a consultation, and let us help you keep your home safe, comfortable, and looking its best.

  • Best Windows & Doors for Coastal Homes

    Living along the coast of any state is a rewarding experience in itself. From the fresh sea air to the sounds of waves crashing on the water, owning a coastal home is a ticket to rest and relaxation.

    However, owning a coastal home also means understanding its unique properties. The goal is to give your home a look that meets your tastes and styles while also buying products that protect it from the unique climate.

    That’s why finding the best windows and doors for your coastal home is valuable. Absolute Window and Door’s experts are versed in the subject, so here are a few things you need to know about buying the best windows and doors if you live on the coast.

    Importance of Choosing the Right Windows and Doors

    Coastal living means buying higher-quality products due to several factors, such as corrosion from saltwater, the threat of storms and hurricanes, and the constant battle against humidity.

    No one likes buying top-of-the-line products if they are too cost-prohibitive, but it cannot be overstated that buying the best can make a difference. Which is worse: spending plenty of money now on one high-quality item or repeatedly purchasing an item of lower quality?

    Energy efficiency is also a consideration. Coastal communities tend to be much warmer during the summer. Ensuring your home does not lose energy due to a lack of proper seal on your windows and doors is the ticket to saving money.

    Door and Window Materials to Consider

    With several varieties of window and door materials available, it’s vital to consider each one.

    Window Materials

    • Fiberglass: Known for its strength and resistance to saltwater corrosion.
    • Vinyl: A cost-effective solution with low maintenance requirements and resistance to humidity and temperature changes.
    • Aluminum: Strong and lightweight, though it requires proper anti-corrosion treatment.

    Door Materials

    • Fiberglass: Combines the aesthetic appeal of wood with superior durability and weather resistance.
    • Steel: Provides exceptional strength and security, though it needs to be treated appropriately.
    • Composite: These doors blend various materials to balance durability, weather resistance, and visual appeal.

    The Perfect Window and Door Styles for Coastal Homes

    Of course, you’ll want your home to have the ideal door and window styles to fit in with existing homes in the community and provide your home with more features. Consider the following:

    Doors

    • Sliding patio doors: Provides seamless access to outdoor spaces and is perfect for capturing those oceanfront views.
    • French doors: Who doesn’t like adding charm and sophistication to their home with a lovely set of French doors?
    • Bi-fold doors: Are you looking to add more modern flair to your coastal home? These doors can fold out for beautiful panoramic views.

    Windows

    • Double-hung windows: There’s nothing wrong with keeping it simple for your coastal home. These standard windows provide two sashes that can open.
    • Casement windows: These windows provide superior ventilation and a tight seal against harsh weather, making them secure and energy-efficient.
    • Picture windows: Perfect for maximizing stunning ocean views and allowing plenty of natural light.
    • Awning windows: If you want windows that open out to protect during rainstorms, they can make it happen.

    Added Features for Coastal Windows and Doors

    You may want plenty of other features for your windows and doors to add additional protection or bolster them against the climate.

    • UV protection: The sun can cause plenty of fading for doors and windows.
    • High-impact resistant glass: Some parts of Florida require these windows for safety.
    • Weatherstripping and seals: Don’t let any of your cold air escape your home.
    • Rust-resistant hardware: The salty air can damage your hinges.
    • Energy-efficient glazing options: Any feature you can add to your home to help save energy is a must.

    Don’t Settle for Anything Less

    Absolute Window and Door wants you to have the best doors and windows for your coastal home. If you’re upgrading anything in your home, contact us today to get started!

  • Sliding vs French Doors for Florida Hurricane Protection

    Living in Florida comes with its own set of challenges as a homeowner. From frequent air conditioning issues, nearly daily severe thunderstorms during the summer, and the constant threat of hurricanes, there’s no shortage of things to worry about when you own a home.

    Surprisingly, finding the right door for your home is something you should consider as a homeowner. During hurricane season, having a proper door can make a big difference. If you’re trying to decide between French or sliding glass doors, let the Absolute Window and Door experts help!

    With our experience, you can have the door of your dreams and protect your home from the dangers of hurricane season. Are you ready to learn more?

    The Basics

    Of course, it helps to know what you’re dealing with regarding both products. So, what do you get when you choose either of them?

    French Doors

    If you want to add a bit of drama and character to your home, a set of French doors can do the trick. French doors are a pair of two-hinged doors that can swing inwardly or outwardly. These are typically attached to kitchens and bedrooms that lead to a seating area.

    Sliding Glass Doors

    A sliding glass door provides a very simplistic approach to doors. These doors slide open and closed via a horizontal track and are usually attached to kitchens or living rooms. They provide large viewing areas to see more than a French door.

    Things to Consider for Both Door Varieties

    Both door varieties have pros and cons regarding structural integrity, materials and durability, and installation concerns. You should consider all options for a robust door that can withstand hurricane season.

    Structural Integrity

    For structural integrity, French doors come with sturdy frames that can be reinforced with more robust materials. They aim to provide exceptional wind and impact resistance. However, like other doors on your home, they can be weak at the hinges and more accessible to rip off during high winds.

    Sliding doors, on the other hand, have fewer moving parts and are less likely to fail during high winds. There are plenty of brands that offer impact-resistant glass or better-reinforced materials. Still, these doors with large glass panes can become hazardous if not enforced properly.

    Materials and Durability

    Both door varieties have strengths and weaknesses in terms of materials and durability. French doors, for example, can be equipped with impact-resistant glass to enhance their durability. They are made from sturdier materials like fiberglass and steel.

    Sliding glass doors can also be engineered with laminated or impact-resistant glass. Made from aluminum or vinyl, the frames can offer better durability from harsh weather.

    Door Installation Needs

    When installing either door type, you must understand that more precautions are taken because of where we live.

    French doors are usually complex to install because of the extra work necessary to ensure stability and a tight seal. Unfortunately, these doors are not for DIY types, so put away your hammer and screwdriver.

    Sliding glass doors can be easier to install because they have few moving parts. However, it’s wise to call upon an expert to ensure proper sealing against water and wind infiltration.

    So, Which Do You Choose?

    Both options have strengths and weaknesses. French doors offer a classic aesthetic and can be reinforced for better durability, but they may require more maintenance and have potential weaknesses.

    Sliding doors provide a modern look, are generally easier to install and maintain, and can be engineered for high-impact resistance. Ultimately, the best choice depends on what you’re seeking.

    That’s Where We Come In

    Absolute Window and Door can provide personalized advice and help you explore high-quality, hurricane-resistant door options. We are here to help you find the perfect doors to protect your home and enhance its beauty. Contact us today to learn more about our options.

  • Why Florida Homes Benefit From Impact-Rated Doors

    Living in Florida comes with its own set of challenges regarding the way our homes are constructed. Thanks to near-daily severe thunderstorms during the summer and the ever-constant threat of hurricanes during the Atlantic Hurricane Season, Florida homeowners tend to be hyper-vigilant about preparing for damage to their homes.

    Regardless, state rules and regulations for homes in the Sunshine State sometimes require a little more durability. That’s especially the case with doors or any opening in your home.

    So, what do you need to know about impact-rated front doors if you’re in the market as a new home builder or trying to replace your old doors? Absolute Window & Door knows plenty about how to manage home improvement in the Florida market, so allow us the opportunity to educate you!

    What Does Florida Law Say?

    Buying a new door for your home in Florida requires understanding the necessary regulations. According to state law, windows and doors installed on homes must be impact-resistant.

    As previously stated, hurricanes and severe thunderstorms that threaten the state can cause tornadoes or high winds to turn any loose material around your home into a volatile projectile. You’ve probably seen a few episodes of Mythbusters to know what happens when a loose 2×4 or wood slat picks up enough speed and power to crash through a window or front door. It’s simple – you don’t want anything to fly through your door or window during a storm.

    Tell Me About Impact-Rated Doors

    If you’re in the market for a new door, you must know what to look for in terms of materials. Impact-rated doors are designed to withstand severe weather like thunderstorms and hurricanes.

    These doors are engineered with more robust materials like steel, reinforced glass, or fiberglass so they can withstand the type of punishment dealt out by severe weather. But it’s not just about impact resistance with these doors. Breaches to your home can cause interior pressurization or structural failure during a storm.

    It’s vital to note that these doors undergo rigorous testing to meet certification standards written by the Florida Building Code or local municipal codes.

    If you have any questions, speak with your favorite home improvement company or a contractor who lives by and studies these codes for a living.

    Standard Doors vs. Impact-Resistant Doors

    We shouldn’t have to tell you this, but the difference between a standard door and an impact-resistant one is stark. It may not be apparent on the surface, but impact-resistant doors are built to higher standards to help protect your home against weather and even forced entry.

    Although they may be more expensive upfront, their long-term value becomes evident through reduced maintenance and enhanced protection.

    Standard doors, while less expensive initially, often lack the resilience needed in hurricane-prone areas like Florida. That means you’ll spend more money to repair them after the storm has passed.

    Don’t be fooled, though. Impact-resistant doors offer nearly the same style and color options as standard doors. You’ll never compromise on style for safety again!

    What About Installing Impact-Resistant Doors?

    Yes, impact-resistant doors do require professional installation. Hiring a professional ensures that your door is installed to code and will require less maintenance. You’ll still need to perform regular maintenance on your door, though, such as annual inspections and cleaning.

    An expert installing your impact-resistant door also opens you to extended warranties and guarantees. Trust us: any small amount of extra money you spend on your home for these warranties is worth it in Florida.

    Trust Absolute Window and Door for Impact-Resistant Options

    When you’re ready for new doors or windows for your home, trust the experts at Absolute Window and Door to deliver. You can protect your home for decades with several impact-resistant door and window options. Ready to learn more? Get in touch with us!

  • How Do You Protect Your Windows for a Hurricane?

    The Atlantic Hurricane Season is a part of life when you choose to live in Florida. However, that doesn’t mean you deserve to live in fear or anxiety. Instead, preparing for the worst ahead of the annual period is always recommended.

    From June to November, Florida residents should be mindful of the high possibility that a hurricane or tropical storm can strike seemingly at will. So, what do you do for your windows if a hurricane is getting ready to strike? Absolute Windows and Doors is here to educate and inform you on how to prepare your windows for hurricane season.

    What to Know About Hurricanes

    The Atlantic Hurricane Season begins annually on June 1 and ends on November 30. For those six months, Florida almost feels like a sitting duck regarding hurricanes. However, hurricanes are more prevalent during the August and September months, which is considered the peak of the hurricane season on the Atlantic Coast.

    The National Hurricane Center rates storm types from Category 1 to 5. Each type can carry its own concerns, including heavy rains, high winds, flooding, and even the ability to spawn tornadoes.

    Getting your home—and your windows in particular—ready before a hurricane’s potential landfall is crucial to reducing the chances of costly repair work.

    Be Prepared

    If you’ve watched Disney’s The Lion King over the past few years, then you know one of the songs in the film is called “Be Prepared.” Regardless of the song’s message, the advice in the title is solid. For hurricane season in Florida, it is best to be prepared. So, how do you prepare your windows for potential damage during hurricane season?

    1. Assess Your Window Vulnerabilities

    A thorough inspection of all your windows will tell you plenty. In this stage, the goal is to check your windows, discover any issues, and ultimately establish a plan to fix them.

    Check your window frames for deterioration. Look for broken or cracked panes of glass. Search for any seal troubles that may also cost you money in energy costs.

    This process will allow you to understand which windows will need work ahead of what could be a busy hurricane season.

    2. Reinforce Window Strength

    Understanding the strength of your windows before hurricane season is vital. While not every home can have impact-rated windows, you may want to invest in new windows that can withstand the power and strength of Mother Nature.

    Storm shutters can help here, too. A strong storm shutter can shield your windows if the wind picks up and launches a 2×4 at your home.

    Of course, there is always the time-tested method of boarding up your windows with plywood before the storm hits if you’re looking for a budget-friendly alternative.

    3. Seal and Waterproof

    During the inspection phase, note all the seals around your windowsills. Not only can you be wasting energy by not correctly sealing your windows, but you’re also opening up your house to potential water leaks.

    Replace any worn-out weatherstripping quickly, ensuring a tight seal between the window sash and the frame. This will prevent energy loss and provide valuable waterproofing.

    Don’t forget about caulking! Use a high-quality exterior caulking product that is designed to withstand weather extremes. Remove old caulking with a utility knife or tool, clean the area thoroughly, and apply a smooth, continuous bead of caulking along the seams and joints. And consider placing prefab walls around your yard to block some of the storm.

    Stay Informed!

    You’ll want to pay attention to your favorite local news stations or newspapers ahead of potential storms. Staying informed will allow you to make informed decisions and prepare your home for damage.

    If you need window help before the season begins, contact Absolute Windows and Doors today!

  • Aluminum vs Vinyl Windows for Southwest Florida Homes

    If you’re thinking about a window replacement project for your home in Southwest Florida, you’ll want to find replacement windows that offer the best value, performance, and aesthetics for your home. Two of the top types of replacement windows you’ll come across in the Southwest Florida area are aluminum windows and vinyl windows. If you’re weighing your options between them, here’s what you need to know to decide if aluminum or vinyl windows are better for your Southwest Florida home.

    Important Window Features for Southwest Florida Homeowners

    First, it’s important to understand what types of features to look for in your new windows. For Southwest Florida homeowners in particular, there are several important factors you’ll want in your windows. These include:

    • Energy efficiency – With the high heat and humidity we experience through most of the year in Southwest Florida, having energy-efficient windows is a must. Features like multi-pane glass, Low-E glass coatings, premium weatherstripping, and multi-chambered frames are important for reducing thermal transfer and contributing to a more comfortable and energy-efficient home environment.
    • Hurricane resistance – Another important feature for Southwest Florida homeowners to look for in their new windows is hurricane and impact resistance. In many coastal areas of Southwest Florida, hurricane-resistant windows are required to meet current building code standards. However, even in areas of Southwest Florida where they’re not a requirement, hurricane-resistant windows are still a smart choice for protecting your biggest and most important asset—your home.

    Vinyl vs. Aluminum Windows for Southwest Florida Homes

    You’ll be happy to know that vinyl windows and aluminum windows are both great options for your home and both come in hurricane-resistant, energy-efficient designs. Your choice between the two will therefore come down to personal preference more than anything else. Many homeowners in Southwest Florida prefer vinyl windows because they are virtually maintenance-free, offer reliable durability, and are customizable to suit your aesthetic preferences. However, aluminum windows may be preferred if you’re looking for a strong frame, enhanced security, and a more environmentally friendly option.

    Essentially, you can’t go wrong with aluminum windows or vinyl windows for your home in Southwest Florida. It’s more important to choose your window company carefully to ensure you’ll receive top-of-the-line windows from trusted brands, have impact-resistant window options available to you, and can be confident that they’ll be properly installed.

    Your Source for Aluminum and Vinyl Windows in Southwest Florida

    At Absolute Window & Door, we proudly offer and install both vinyl windows and aluminum windows for homeowners throughout Southwest Florida. Our windows feature the hurricane resistance and energy efficiency you need to enhance and protect your home inside and out. You can rely on our professionals to help you weigh your options so that you can choose the aluminum windows or vinyl windows that will best suit your needs. Contact us today to learn more.

  • Are Impact Windows Worth the Investment for Florida Homes?

    Impact windows, also called hurricane windows, are uniquely designed to withstand the high winds and sudden impact that can occur during hurricanes, tropical storms, and other inclement weather. While impact windows aren’t essential for homes in many parts of the country, they are more common in areas like Florida that are at risk of hurricanes and similar weather throughout the better part of the year. However, if you live in Florida or another hurricane-prone area, you may be wondering if these more expensive windows are worth the investment. Here’s what you need to know about investing in impact-resistant windows for your home.

    Hurricane Impact Windows May Be Required

    The first thing to know about impact windows is that they may be required by your local building code. While your home may not currently have hurricane windows installed based on building codes at the time of their installation, any window replacement project will need to adhere to current building code standards. In Florida, impact windows are currently required anywhere within a mile of the coastline as well as inland areas that can experience wind speeds of at least 120 mph. If impact windows are required where you live, there’s not much to consider for your window replacement project. However, if you live in an area where they’re optional, it can still be a worthwhile investment to consider for your home.

    Anatomy of Impact Windows - Absolute Windows & Doors

    Benefits of Hurricane Impact Windows

    Florida homeowners can experience a wide range of benefits when they invest in hurricane-impact windows. The most obvious benefit is the enhanced protection against hurricanes and other inclement weather. Impact-resistant windows feature a sturdier frame that’s more securely affixed to the home compared with standard replacement windows, helping to prevent the entire window from being ripped from your home in high winds. Impact windows also feature a unique laminated glass design that helps prevent the window from shattering or caving in if wind-swept debris hits the window with extreme force. In addition to this protection, hurricane-impact windows can offer the following benefits:

    • Potential discounts from your insurance company for enhanced protection of your home
    • Tax benefits and home hardening grants are available through the state
    • Enhanced energy efficiency to keep your home cool and comfortable when the weather is hot and humid
    • Potentially lower energy bills thanks to the enhanced energy performance
    • Less noise pollution from outside transferring through your windows

    Over the long term, impact windows can offer numerous benefits over traditional windows that make them well worth the investment. From incentives that can help make the upfront cost more affordable to the long-term cost savings of a more energy-efficient home, impact windows can help pay you back in the long run.

    Get Impact Windows for Your Home

    If you’re interested in having hurricane-impact windows installed on your home in the Southwest Florida area, turn to the professionals at Absolute Window & Door. We proudly offer and install impact-resistant windows for homeowners throughout the region. Contact us today, and we’d be happy to provide you with durable new hurricane windows that meet your needs as well.