Impact Windows – Page 2 – GM Door Window & Screen

The 2024 Hurricane Season Forecast

Impact Sliding Doors by GM Door Window and Screen in Plantation, FL.

AccuWeather is predicting 2024 to be a very strong hurricane season. The current El Nino pattern, which produces high-level winds that weaken storms, gives way to a La Nina pattern, which is more favorable for storms. This coupled with warmer than usual Atlantic waters, should point to a very busy storm season.

The La Nina storm pattern was in place during the 2005 and 2020 storm seasons, tied to the most active storm seasons in history with 31 tropical systems.

At the end of January, the water temperatures for storms in the Main Development Region were 65 percent higher than the next closest year. Because of these unusually warm water temperatures, this gives storms the potential for rapid intensification, even close to land.

Hurricane windows and doors ensure you are always ready should a storm threaten.

If you are thinking about getting new impact windows and doors, the earlier you act, the better. Don’t get caught having to board up your home when a storm threatens. Hurricane season is from June 1 to November 30. Call GM-Doors, Windows & Screen for a free estimate at (954) 797-0797. We are a family-run business with our own in-house installation team that has been in business since 1968. Gm offers only the finest products and will work within your budget to make your home safe in the event a storm threatens.

By Daniela|2024-02-27T20:36:15+00:00May 24, 2022|Hurricane Shutters, Hurricane Windows, Impact Windows|

Ideas to Improve your Home Office

Today many people are in a work-at-home situation. Most likely, you put together your home office with what you had available to make it work. But if you are working at home permanently, it might be time to take a hard look at your home office setup.

Dedicated workspace

If you have the space convert a spare bedroom into an office, or if you need a shared space, make your office the primary focus of the room. If you are working at home full time, you must have an area primarily dedicated to this purpose.

Desk

If you are at the kitchen table or any makeshift desk, it is time to look at an actual desk that will fit your workspace. It would help if you also considered an adjustable desk that allows you to raise the desk to work in a standing position. An adjustable desk is especially beneficial for those who have back problems and work at a computer all day.

If kids are your spouse are also going to use the space, consider a partner desk setup where two people can simultaneously work at the same desk.

New Windows

Everyone enjoys having a nice view from their office. Old, tired windows that obscure your view can make the room look dark and uninviting. Upgrading your windows can make a big difference in your work environment and change the room’s energy. New windows with expansive panes of glass can let the outside in and provides tons of natural light. It would help if you also considered changing your windows to impact windows with multiple benefits. In South Florida, protecting your home in the event of a hurricane and now your office is paramount. Plus, there is an added benefit that impact windows significantly reduce distracting outside noise. Impact windows are also a significant deterrent to thieves, who often access the home by breaking a window. Breaking through impact glass is virtually impossible with impact windows. With new windows, you might want to invest in some new landscaping to improve your view.

Consider who else might use the office

If you have clients or co-workers visiting, you need to consider seating. This could include table space if you have enough room. Pick your furniture accordingly.

Desk Chair

Proper support is imperative when selecting a desk chair. Borrowing a chair from the dining area is not the best choice for seating when working long hours at your home office desk. Selecting an ergonomic chair with adjustable height, a 360-degree swivel base, adjustable backrest and armrest, and built-in lumbar support is critical.

Monitor Placement

No person is the same, so you might have to experience different setups for your monitor and keyboard. Ideally, everything should be set up, so your spine remains in a neutral position. The monitor should be at least 20 inches away, and your eyes should be looking slightly down when viewing. If you wear bifocals, you should tip the screen back so you are not tilting your head to focus.

Storage

You most likely need office supplies and paperwork storage even in this digital age. Depending on your needs, you need to provide additional cabinet space, or you can even get plastic bins to store away all your office supplies. This will help you feel more organized and keep your work environment tidy.

Wires and Cords

Even with wi-fi, you will have power cords and cables to deal with within your home office. Many cord management systems are available, from simple twist ties to more elaborate designs. Most important is to have cord covers to deal with cords that might be in the path of where someone will walk. You may also need to invest in a wi-fi extender or even a wi-fi mesh system to ensure a strong internet connection.

Lighting

Good lighting is needed to prevent eye strain that can cause fatigue and headaches. Let in as much natural light as possible. Indirect light is also better as it causes less glare.

Invest in yourself

Setting up a proper home work setup is an investment in yourself. Not only will your mode improve, and you will be more productive, but you can prevent back problems and headaches that are brought on by things like eye strain.

Having a great view from your home office is priceless.

By Daniela|2022-05-10T14:13:26+00:00May 10, 2022|Impact Windows|

How long will it take before my new impact windows are installed?

Professional installation is critical when it comes to getting replacement windows installed.

If you plan to replace your old leaky windows with hurricane impact windows these days, you need to plan ahead. In the past, you could expect to have your windows installed in 4 to 8 weeks once the contract has been signed and the deposit received, but those lead times are now 16 to 20 weeks. Supply chain issues have affected many parts of our everyday lives, which is also true for windows, so it is vital to act quickly.

New windows are part of a complex environment of raw materials, components, manufacturing, and labor that all come together to form the end product. Glass, resin, and vinyl are all in short supply due to hurricanes impacting chemical plants and refineries along the gulf coast. In addition, the slowdown of foreign supply lines that provide some of the raw materials needed to produce windows has also contributed to delays. This, coupled with strong demand and labor shortages, prevent the plants from operating at full capacity.

Replacement windows are custom manufactured and ordered for the exact specification of your home, so it is not possible to buy a prefabricated product for installation off the shelf.

Since product delays impact all window companies, you should deal with a company that has been in business a long while, has roots in the community, and has expert installation. Family-owned and operated, GM – Door, Window, and Screen has been around since 1968. Call us at (954) 797-0797 for a free estimate.

By Daniela|2023-06-14T15:24:01+00:00March 16, 2022|Hurricane Windows, Impact Windows|

New Windows and Doors can Completely Change the Look of Your Home

Replacing your old, poorly functioning sliding glass doors with impact rated sliding glass door will not only make your home look great, but give you piece of mind in the event a storm threatens.

Replacing your windows and entrance doors are home improvement projects that can dramatically improve the look of your home. The before and after transformation will be dramatic for both the exterior and interior of the house, plus you will receive many additional benefits when you change out your windows and entrance doors.

One of the main concerns is the high cost of window and door replacement, but no worries. Fortunately, replacing your windows and doors has one of the highest returns on investment when you decide to sell your home. Window and entrance door replacement both fell into the top 10 of cost recouped when it came time to sell in 2021.

If your windows and entrance door are 15 to 20 years old, they most likely make your home look dated, plus they are likely beginning to fail. As a home settles, weather and sun all begin to take their toll, windows and doors begin not to function properly. Windows start to leak air, and in worse cases, water may be getting into your home through a leaky window. The same thing could be happening with your entrance door. If this happens, you should have a consultation with a window and door professional who can show you many options that will fit your budget.

There are many styles to choose from, and you can select windows and doors that will best fit your home’s architectural style. Popular today is a clean contemporary look with very little in terms of divided lights. These huge glass windows let in dramatically more light, brightening the home’s interior. To complement the windows, homeowners are choosing contemporary glass entrance doors. One type of glass entrance door has an opaque film sandwiched between two panes of glass that block people from looking into the home but allows a flood of light. A client who recently installed an opaque glass front door commented they had to check them several times the first few days, thinking they had left the door wide open because there was so much light coming into their previously dark foyer.

In South Florida, when it is time to replace your windows and doors, it is recommended that you select impacted-rated windows and entrance doors, also known as hurricane windows and doors. This way, you will always be ready if a storm threatens. Nothing ruins a summer vacation than if a storm suddenly pops up and you have to worry about securing your home. With impact windows and doors, your home is secure 100 percent of the time. In addition, not only are you secure from hurricanes, but thieves most often gain entrance to a home by breaking a window or door. That is almost impossible when you have an impact-rated product, and thieves will move on to select an easier target.

Repainting your home can give your home a facelift, but if you have old windows and an old entrance door, you will not get the effect you desire. Windows and the entrance door make up a large portion of the home’s exterior. Replacing your windows and doors will give your home instant curb appeal. Using impact-rated products will help you get a premium price for your home when it is time to sell. Plus, your home will likely sit less time on the market as buyers will look favorably on homes with already installed impact windows and doors.

GM – Door, Window & Screen is a family-owned and operated business operating since 1968 that specializes in impact replacement windows and doors. With our in-house installation team, we provide the finest products and will work within your budget. Give us a call for a free estimate at (954) 797-0797.

By Daniela|2022-03-09T14:15:43+00:00March 9, 2022|Door Category, Impact Windows|

When should I replace my windows and doors?

Window and Door Replacement by GM Door Window and Screen in Plantation, FL. — **New impact windows and doors will add tremendous curb appeal to your home.**

In South Florida, windows and doors should last from 10 to 25 years before you start seeing issues. The life span of windows of doors depends on the materials utilized and the quality of the installation. Salt air, using inferior products, lack of maintenance, and poor installation can all lower the life expectancy of your windows and doors.

You should regularly inspect and maintain your windows and doors, which can extend their life expectancy. Every six months and more, if you live near the ocean, you should clean your windows, doors, and sliding glass doors. Maintenance includes cleaning and washing your windows and doors, checking for proper operation, and clearing the tracks of dirt and debris.

Cleaning the window and sliding glass door’s window tracks is especially important to ensure smooth operation. The first thing you should do is use a vacuum or shop vac to remove the debris. Next, spray a mild household cleaner and wipe the tracks with a paper towel or old cloth to remove the dirt and grime. Paper towels tend to fall apart, so we recommend using a cloth for this job, but you can certainly use paper towels. To get into the corners, you can use an old toothbrush, cotton swab, or wrap the cloth around a butter knife to reach into the corners. Use a dry cloth to wipe down the tracks till they are completely dry. As a final step, you can lubricate the track. Petroleum-based lubricants attack dirt, so we recommend using a spray silicone lubricant. Spray down the track two or three times and exercise the door to make sure everything runs smoothly.

Exterior door failures are most likely caused by wear and tear in addition to weather damage, or the door becomes out of plumb from the house settling. High humidity will cause wooden doors to swell and stick. It is essential to direct water away from the door. Door gaskets should be replaced every 5 to 8 years. Fiberglass, steel, and solid core wood door can last the lifetime of your home if properly maintained. However, in storm-prone South Florida, you should have an impact-rated entry door, also known as a hurricane-rated door, that has been installed correctly in the event of a hurricane.

It would be best if you regularly inspect your windows and doors for water and outside air intrusion during your cleaning. You can sometimes repair small leaks in your windows by removing the old caulk and re-caulking with a silicone caulk designed for windows and doors. However, if you have significant air and water intrusion or your windows and doors no longer operate properly, have major rotting, it is time to look at getting them replaced. The window or door was most likely not correctly installed, leading to its failure.

When it comes time to look at replacement options, it only makes sense to look at impact-rated products in storm-prone South Florida. If you have impact-rated windows and doors, you are always prepared in the event of a storm. Plus, nothing gives your home a new facelift like new windows and doors. You also might be able to save money on your homeowner’s insurance if you have installed all impact-rated windows and doors. New windows and doors have a great return on investment that will pay off when you sell your home. Prospective buyers come to expect impact windows and doors when looking for a new home.

GM Door, Window & Screen is a family-owned and operated business. GM has been servicing South Florida since 1968. Call us for a free estimate at (954) 797-0797.

By Daniela|2023-06-14T15:24:25+00:00January 11, 2022|Condominium Window Replacement, Door Category, Hurricane Windows, Impact Windows|

Florida Building Code as it relates to Impact Windows

Patio Door Replacement by GM Door Window and Screen in Plantation, FL.

Replacement windows are subject to current building codes and require a building permit. In South Florida, a window’s function is not just to allow light and air into the home but can be a safety measure in the event of a storm. One should seriously look at adding impact windows, also known as hurricane windows, to receive protection from storms and many more benefits. An impact window in a Florida home has a multi-functional role: it must allow the sun’s light to pass through, but not the sun’s heat; it must keep cool conditioned air inside but not allow condensation to form on the surface of the glass. It must not allow hot, humid outside air to leak into the home in summer, nor allow warm inside air to leak out of the house in winter. Plus, as a result of Hurricane Andrew in 1992, we know hurricanes can breach older windows, making them a primary access point for wind, rain, and wind-borne debris.

Florida Building Code (FBC)

The FBC requires windows to be impact-resistant or protected with shutters if located within one mile of the coast where the wind speed is 140 mph or greater during a storm. (Of course, even if your home is not located in this area, impact windows are getting to be the norm in all of South Florida.) A window is a complex system, and it’s more than just glazing (glass): it also includes the frame, sash, and any operable elements as well.

Florida Building Code prescribes performance and construction requirements for exterior windows and glass doors installed in-wall systems. Testing by an approved testing laboratory is required. Approved labels affixed to the window must identify the manufacturer, performance characteristics approved product certification agency, testing laboratory, evaluation entity, or Miami-Dade notice of acceptance (NOA). To pass inspection, the city inspector must view this sticker affixed to your windows, so make sure not to remove the sticker before the inspection. And the answer is yes to the question, “Do I need a permit to install impact windows?”

There are testing standards set forth by the American Society for Testing & Materials (ASTM) and/or others that must be met before a window is certified as being impact-resistant. One of the most stringent testing requirements is referenced in the High-Velocity Hurricane Zone (HVHZ) section of the Florida Building Code, which applies to Miami-Dade and Broward Counties. To pass inspection and be eligible for insurance discounts, every exterior opening, residential or commercial, must be protected by shutters or impact-resistant windows against wind-borne debris caused by hurricanes in the HVHZ. A company may have its products approved for local or state use. Broward and Miami-Dade Counties have the strictest test protocols in the country for wind-borne debris, positive and negative air pressure, and water tests.

Impact-Resistant Glazing

Impact-resistant glazing is available as laminated glass and is also considered a type of safety glazing. Laminated glass consists of two or more panes of clear glass bonded together with transparent plastic-like film (usually polyvinyl butyral) sandwiched between the two. This inner “filling” ranges in thickness from .015 to .090 inches, which can be ordered in various colored tints to help reduce UV damage in the home. The laminated glass does not shatter but holds hold the glass together upon impact. If cracked or broken, the glass fragments adhere to the plastic interlayer, thus preventing water, wind, or wind-borne debris from entering the structure. Note that the frames for laminated glass are generally beefier than for regular residential windows because although the glass may not break, a strong force could hit the window hard enough to cause the entire frame to give way. The window is tested as a unit that includes the glass, frame, attachment hardware, and the installation method when undergoing testing. Products designed to protect your home’s openings must be both tested and approved for wind load and wind-borne debris. Keep in mind that all glass other than impact-resistant window glass, even if tempered, reinforced, or insulated, needs to be protected with shutters during severe wind events.

Proper Installation

The proper attachment of the window to the structure is critical to the performance of the window. Each manufacturer specifies how its impact-resistant windows must be installed to offer the maximum amount of protection when confronted by storm-driven debris. The FBC has specific requirements for window installations but primarily refers to following the “published manufacturer’s recommendations.” Detailed information about window and door installation is provided in the American Society for Testing and Materials (ASTM) standard ASTM E 2112 (Standard Practice for Installation of Exterior Windows, Doors and Skylights), a comprehensive installation guide. Look for an installer who has extensive experience and is familiar with this document or other installation specifications as available through the American Architectural Manufacturers Association (AAMA) and who follows the manufacturer’s installation guidelines.

Insurance Benefits

Visit the Florida Wind Insurance Incentives website to search for wind insurance incentives, such as impact-resistant glazing or shutter protection for windows, which reduce wind damage. Check with your homeowner’s insurance carrier to see what kind of a discount is available. Benefits from impact-resistant windows extend beyond storms to broader security concerns such as reduced break-ins and theft.

The window sticker must remain affixed in order to pass inspection by your municipality.

Design Wind Pressure Rating

The pressure rating measures the window’s performance and is expressed as positive and negative wind pressure and is measured in pressure per square foot (PSF). Required design wind pressure is based on wind speed, the surrounding terrain (proximity to the coast, open terrain…etc.), the building height, the size of the window, and the window’s location on the building. An independent laboratory tests the window to 150% of the design pressure rating. Florida Building Code for Risk Category II structures (one-and-two family dwellings and townhouses not more than three stories in height) specifies a wind speed of 175 mph in Miami-Dade County and 170 mph in Broward. The higher the pressure rating, the better.

Energy Performance of Windows

The National Fenestration Rating Council (NFRC) offers a voluntary testing and certification program for thermal performance for windows and residential door products with glass. The NFRC does not conduct structural characteristics, such as impact resistance, but instead serves as a complementary program that can test the whole window (including frame) for the following features: U-Factor, Solar Heat Gain Coefficient (SHGC), Visible Transmittance, Air Leakage, and Condensation Resistance. Remember that just because a window has an NFRC certification label, it does not mean a window or door is energy efficient. Instead, it provides information about energy performance that users can then use to determine if the product is efficient for the region or situation. You’ll note the window sticker contains other information as well, including company name, framing material, product type, etc., so be sure to compare similar products with each other. The SHGC rating is the most important in Florida since we usually try to block the most heat from coming while admitting the most visible light. NFRC Label Solar Heat Gain Coefficient (SHGC) SHGC measures how well a product blocks heat caused by sunlight. The SHGC is the fraction of incident solar radiation admitted through a window, both directly transmitted, absorbed, and subsequently released inward. SHGC is expressed as a number between 0 and 1. The lower a window’s solar heat gain coefficient, the less solar heat it transmits in Florida. Select windows with an SHGC of 0.40 or less.

U-Factor

U-factor measures the amount of heat that escapes through the product. The lower the rating, the better the window prevents heat loss (as imagined, this is more of a concern in northern climates). NFRC certified products require U-factor ratings. In Florida, select windows with a U-factor at least as low as 0.65. Air Leakage* (AL) AL is indicated by an air leakage rating, expressed as the equivalent cubic feet of air passing through a square foot of window area (cfm/sq ft). Heat loss and gain occur by infiltration through cracks in the window assembly. The lower the AL, the less air will pass through cracks in the window assembly.

Condensation Resistance* (CR)

CR measures the ability of a product to resist the formation of condensation on the interior surface of that product. While this rating cannot predict condensation, it can provide a credible method of comparing the potential of various products for condensation formation. CR is expressed as a number between 0 and 100. The higher the CR rating, the better that product is at resisting condensation formation.

Visible Transmittance (VT)

VT measures how much light comes through a product. Visible transmittance is an optical property that indicates the amount of visible light transmitted. VT is expressed as a number between 0 and 1. The higher the VT, the more light is transmitted. * This rating is optional, and manufacturers can choose not to include it.

GM Door, Window & Screen has the most affordable solutions for your home remodeling project. We specialize in the installation of hurricane-ready / impact windows, sliding doors, and entrance doors. In business since 1968, we have been family-owned and operated. GM takes your vision and works within your budget to provide the perfect finished product. Upgrade and make your home safe from storms with new doors, windows, shutters, and more. Call today for a free estimate (954) 797-0797.

Review the various ratings with your salesperson to select the best window for your home or business.

By Daniela|2023-02-10T18:41:47+00:00November 16, 2021|Impact Windows|

What to expect during your window and/or entrance door replacement consultation

Fantastic, you finally decided to replace your old inefficient windows and doors with hurricane-rated impact products but are unsure of the process. Here is an overview of what you should expect.

Before the consultation

It would be a good idea to do a little research before meeting with a widow and door company. That would include driving the neighborhood to see what type of windows and doors might be a good replacement option for your home. You can also cut out pictures from magazines or look on the internet to get an idea of the type of windows and styles and doors you like.

GM- Door Window & Screen works with a large number of quality manufactures, so we have an extensive selection of options from which to choose. If you are still unsure, no worries, we will help you through the process. Our consultants have decades of experience to help you make the right selections.

Your sales consultation

Ideally, your sales consultant should be highly experienced and have previously done work in your neighborhood. With that background, they will have ideas and suggestions for what products, manufacturers, and styles will work best with your home’s architecture. Also, having worked in the area previously, they will often be knowledgeable about the unique design characteristics of the homes built in the area. They should also be ready with references from previous work they have completed.

GM – Door, Window & Screen has been doing business in South Florida since 1968, so we have extensive experience, pages of reference and will be able to help you find the best window and door replacement option for your budget.

Items to cover during the consultation

Which materials will work best for your home and budget?

Impact Windows- Vinyl and aluminum impact windows are your two main choices. Advances in vinyl technology make vinyl impact windows an excellent and affordable option. Quality vinyl windows will not crack, fade, or warp, plus they are very energy efficient. Quality replacement vinyl windows should last for decades. Aluminum impact windows are inherently strong but lightweight. They are made with durable powder-coated finishes that are resistant to corrosion.

Impact Entrance Doors – Your entrance door is often the first impression when visitors or guests visit your home. In storm-prone South Florida, it should be as beautiful as it is strong. Your main choices of materials are fiberglass, aluminum, steel, and entrance doors made with impact-rated glass. Nothing beats the look and feel of a real wood door, but a wood door will need to be coupled with a shutter system to protect the opening in the event of a storm. Better choices for storm-prone South Florida are fiberglass, aluminum, and steel doors, which can all be manufactured to simulate a wood grain door and are excellent options when it comes to storm protection. While they mimic the look of natural wood, these products are resistant to moisture, humidity, warping, and splitting. Doors made with impact glass are another popular choice and give the home a fantastic contemporary look, plus impact glass doors let in natural light that brightens up your entranceway.

GM Door, Window & Screen will review all your material options with you, and you can select the best choice for your style of home that will work within your budget. GM sells a wide variety of affordable, solid, and durable impact products.

Do impact windows block UV rays, and should I get my windows tinted?

Impact windows provide up to 99 percent protection from damaging UV rays generated by the sun, while regular glass windows only provide 60 percent protection. Over time, UV rays will fade furniture, wood flooring, carpet, and artwork. When you order your windows, you also have the option of getting your windows tinted. Getting your windows tinted can also help keep your home cooler, which will lower your energy bill. Windows can be ordered clear, but tint options are available in various shades of bronze, gray, blue, and green. The tint can be lighter or darker depending on your needs. Glass entrance doors are often ordered with a white opaque interlayer that provides absolute privacy but allows natural light to flow into your home, brightening the entrance.

GM Door, Window & Screen recommends in many cases to select a tint that works with the color scheme of your home, which will help keep your home cool in the intense South Florida heat.

What style impact windows and entrance door should I choose?

This is where you doing some research before meeting with the consultant will come in handy. Our knowledgeable consultant will help you narrow down your choices and advise you on what impact windows and doors will work best for the architectural design of your home. We walk you through the available impact window choices: single hung, horizontal rolling windows, casement windows, fixed windows, and specialty shapes. We will show you entrance doors that make a bold statement and more subtle entrance doors that complement the design of your home.

GM Door, Window & Screen has been in business since 1968, and we have worked in every neighborhood in South Florida and done installations in every type of home architecture. Using this experience, we will help you select the perfect impact windows and entrance door for your home.

Preparing the quote.

Once we have settled on the type of impact windows and entrance door, we will go around your house to measure all the openings. Depending on your style and materials selection, we will reach out to our manufacturers to secure the absolute best pricing for your project for the quote. Often manufacturers will have promotions where we can pass the savings along.

I am ready to sign the contract!

We go over the contract to ensure everything is to your satisfaction and collect a deposit to get things rolling. You heard the old say, “Measure twice, cut once.” We do the same thing for each opening. Every opening is remeasured, and we confirm the product, style, and color for the job. We also provide the paperwork needed to pull a permit with the city. And the answer is YES to the question, “Do I need a permit?” You would be foolish not to have the installation properly inspected for a significant investment like window replacement and a new entrance door. Plus, your insurance company will ask to see the paperwork showing the impact windows and doors have passed inspection to qualify for discounts.

Since the windows are built to your home’s specifications, they are ordered at this time, and a second deposit is collected. While you are excited about getting your new impact windows and entrance door, almost always, you will need to be a little patient as the products are manufactured to your specifications. This will take a little time and that time varies depending on how busy the manufacturer is producing product. All window companies incur this delay, but it will be well worth the wait.

Are there financing options available?

Hurricane / Impact windows and doors are an excellent investment to protect your family, increase your home’s energy efficiency, and may also reduce the wind portion of your property insurance bill by up to 77% depending on the age of your home and type of improvement. Qualified property owners can get up to 100 percent financing to make energy efficiency and wind resistance improvement and repairs through Ygrene’s Property Accessed Clean Energy (PACE) financing program. Financing is based upon available home equity, ability to pay, along with other factors. The funding is repaid through an assessment included in the annual property tax bill. Wind resistant improvements include wind-rated / hurricane resistant windows, doors, and storm shutters. The PACE program is not based upon credit score, pays the contractor directly, stretches payments out over terms up to 30 years, and is at a fixed interest rate.

Time to install your impact windows and entrance door

GM Door Window & Screen has expert, in-house installation teams to do your job. Be wary of companies that use outside contractors to do the work. Proper installation following the manufacturer’s instructions is critical to avoid leaks and the proper function of your impact windows and entrance doors. This is a job for experienced pros and not a handyman. In most cases, the team can do an average size home in two or three days. The only preparation needed by the homeowner is moving furniture or objects a couple of feet away from the windows, both inside and outside, giving workers room to work. We do minor stucco repair if there is damage when the old windows are removed. You should be prepared to do so some touch-up painting after the job is complete. On occasion, we may see more significant problems where there is structural damage due to a leaking window or considerable damage to the stucco or window sills tied to removing the old products. Then separate arrangements will have to be made to address these problems. Looking at the job, we can most often advise you upfront of potential issues.

GM Door, Window & Screen expert installation team are all in-house employees and do meticulous work. We carefully clean up the job site each day, so there is very little mess associated with your installation.

After your impact window and entrance door installation is complete

Aside from being the envy of all your neighbors, we will arrange for the final inspection by the city. Once everything passes inspection, we collect the final balance. Now you can enjoy being prepared ahead of time in the event of a storm. With new impact windows and entrance doors, there are also other added benefits, like a significant reduction in outside noise coming into the house, a reduction in your energy bill and added security. Thieves most often enter a home by breaking the glass on a window or kicking in a door, but that is almost impossible with impact products.

In most cases, thieves decide to move on to easier targets when they encounter impact windows and doors. You should also connect with your homeowner’s insurance company. You may be eligible for significant discounts on your home’s insurance policy. Finally, you will be shocked at how much better your home looks with new impact windows and a new impact-rated entrance door. While a significant investment, these home upgrades will pay off when you decide to sell your home down the road. In South Florida, home buyers will almost always look to purchase a home with upgraded impact windows and doors and pay a premium. GM Door, Window & Screen is a family-owned and operated business. GM has been servicing South Florida since 1968. Call us for a free estimate at (954) 797-0797.

By Daniela|2021-09-29T14:53:49+00:00September 29, 2021|Door Category, Impact Windows|

Should I get all my Windows and Doors replaced all at once with Impact Windows and Doors?

While it is a significant investment to replace all of your windows and doors simultaneously with Impact windows and doors, it does pay off in the long run. And yes, it is an investment that will have a good return.

Here are some excellent reasons to have all your home’s windows and doors upgraded all at once with impact products.

Cost Savings – You will be able to save significant money on labor and materials by replacing all of your windows and doors at once. Sending out a team of installers at various times over a year or two will increase the cost of labor, set up and clean up for each upgrade. Plus, the cost of materials is likely to rise over time, making new windows and doors more expensive.
Insurance Savings – To qualify for a discount on your wind-storm portion of your home’s insurance, every opening, both windows and doors, must be covered with a product rated for hurricane protection.
Energy Savings – Old windows and doors are likely to be leaking air, causing you not only to be air conditioning your own home but the surrounding neighborhood. When properly installed, new impact windows and doors make for an air-tight seal of your home, saving money on your electrical bill every month. Proper installation following the manufacturer’s instructions is critical. It is always better to work with a company that uses its in-house installers and no contractors to control the quality of the installation work.
Safety and Security – If all of your windows and doors are impact rated, also known as hurricane rated, you will be ready at all times if a hurricane threatens. No need to worry about putting up shutters or plywood; you are hurricane-ready at all times. Many people take summer vacations during storm season, making it unnecessary to rush back home if a storm threatens. And no need to find someone from afar to make your home hurricane-ready while you are away. Thieves have also learned to move on to easier targets when confronted with impact-resistant windows and doors. Kicking in a door or breaking a window are the number one ways thieves gain entrance to a home. It is almost impossible for thieves to gain entry through a locked impact window or door. Getting your windows and doors done in stages leaves openings for storms and thieves to penetrate the envelope of your home through those weak points.
Aesthetics – Brand new impact windows and doors will dramatically improve the appearance of your home. Doing some windows and not others will create a disjointed look. Old windows with a grid design over the glass obscure the view from inside the home are going out of style. Sliding, Single-hung, and picture windows are all good for maximizing your home’s views and giving your home a modern look. Impact entrance glass doors are also great for letting in natural light. Entrance doors can be fitted with obscured impact glass that lets the light in but does not allow anyone to see into the home. This modern look is great for lighting up a dark entryway during the day.
Return on Investment – Aside from ongoing energy savings, it is estimated that replacing old windows and doors with impact-rated windows and doors can return as much as 78% of their cost at the time of resale. Plus, your home is likely to sell more quickly with new impact windows and doors.

Often, financing options are available to get all your windows replaced simultaneously rather than making these home improvements in stages. Call GM – Door, Window & Screen for a free estimate. We have been doing this since 1968 and are family-owned and operated. Call us at (954) 797-0797.

By Daniela|2021-11-16T20:15:35+00:00July 13, 2021|Door Category, Hurricane Shutters, Impact Windows|

A word about Unique Shaped Windows.

Most windows are rectangular in shape, but to add visual interest, uniquely shaped windows are often incorporated into the design of a home. These are also known as architectural fixed windows. Aside from giving a custom look to a home, unique shaped windows allow for additional light and often enhance the view from inside the home. If you want your home to stand out from the others in a neighborhood, a unique shaped window makes a statement.

In South Florida, unique-shaped windows may pose a challenge if you are looking to replacing your old windows. Most people these days opt for impact windows, also known as hurricane windows when doing window replacement for their home. If you have a unique shaped window(s), no worries, GM – Door, Window, and & Screen will work with our manufacturers to design an impact replacement window that will fit your unique window opening. We also have experienced in-house installers who have worked with unique windows and other challenging installations. Proper installation is just as important as the impact widow itself to withstand storms and for the window to have no leaks.

Special shaped replacement windows are ordered and are designed for a precise fit.

To be eligible for an insurance discount, every window and door of the house needs to be fitted with an impact/hurricane-rated product, including fixed and unique-shaped windows.

Primary Types of Unique Shaped Windows

Half Circle Windows

These windows are often positioned above a rectangular window or door to give the appearance of an arch.

Quarter Circle Windows

Usually, two-quarter windows are paired together and placed side by side to form a half-circle. Quarter Arches are also used in the same manner.

Full Circle or Oval Windows

A full circle window, also known as an oculus window, is a complete 360° round shape. Often these are used to light areas like stairwells where space is a premium. The oval window is an elongated circle window.

Radius or Arched Windows

This window has a soft curve or arch at the top of the window to complement the traditional horizontal and vertical lines of the bottom part of the window. Other varieties of arched windows are also eyebrows, fans, and elliptical shapes.

Trapezoid Windows

Trapezoid windows are often associated with modern homes. A trapezoid window is where the window most often is positioned to follow the slope of the roofline and is usually positioned above other windows. sliding glass doors or even French doors. Going back to your geometry class, a trapezoid is a quadrilateral (four sides) with only one pair of parallel sides. The non-parallel side is the side that follows the angle of your roofline.

Pantagon and Hexagon Window

This window shape makes a statement when incorporated into the architecture of any home. These are five-sided or six-sided accent window that is most often a fixed window.

Octagon Windows

Octagon windows have eight sides and are shaped like a stop sign. This architectural window is often a fixed window and is a great source to allow in extra light.

Triangle Windows

As the name denotes, these are fixed windows in the shape of a triangle equilateral or a ninety-degree triangle.

Sidelight Windows

These are narrow vertical windows located on one or both sides of a door and, as the name indicates, allow additional light at the entrance of a home. These can be individual units but most often are built into the same frame assembly as the door.

There are many other custom types of windows out there, and we work with all shapes and sizes of windows.

GM – Door, Window & Screen has been in business since 1968 and is family owned and operated. Give us a call for a free estimate. (954)797-0797

By Daniela|2021-06-23T20:46:37+00:00June 23, 2021|Impact Windows|

What are impact windows and glass impact glass doors?

Impact windows and glass impact doors are made with impact-resistant laminated glass consisting of two or more clear panes of glass bonded together with a clear plastic-like film (usually polyvinyl butyral) sandwich between two panes. If cracked or broken the glass fragments will adhere to the plastic inter-layer preventing water, wind, or debris from entering the home. Impact windows and doors generally have heavier frames than regular residential windows.

Hurricane or impact windows and doors’ main function is to protect from wind, water, and wind born debris in the event of a storm. Impact-resistant glazing, also known as hurricane windows or glass doors, are windows and doors that have been tested for wind loads and wind-borne debris.

Broward, Coastal Palm Beach, and Miami-Dade are in a High-Velocity Wind Zone, and Impact Windows and doors must meet the most stringent testing requirements.

Energy Savings – Leaky windows run up your energy bill by making your air conditioner run longer to cool your home. Impact, laminated glass windows provide greater insulation, and adding a tint will help block the sun’s rays to keep your home significantly cooler.

Tints – Impact glass can be clear, but because of the amount of sunshine in storm-prone areas most often the glass is tinted. Commonly available tint choices are bronze, grey, green or blue.

UV Protection – Tinting your impact windows can help reduce ultraviolet light, which not only causes damage to your skin, but can also fade furniture, artwork, and carpets in the home.

Privacy Impact Glass – Impact windows can be made with obscured textured privacy glass and are commonly utilized on bathroom windows. Another popular choice on entrance impact glass doors is a white opaque privacy interlayer. The white interlayer makes the glass opaque yet lets in loads of light and provides a clean, modern look.

Noise Reduction – Old windows offer little insulation or soundproofing. Impact windows are much thicker than a standard widow and that will significantly reduce the amount of outside noise intrusion.

Security – Breaking windows is a very common way thieves gain entrance to a home. Impact windows are designed to resist impacts. Thieves will often bypass homes with impact windows knowing how difficult they are to breach.

Let the pros at GM Door, Window and Screen give you a free quote about upgrading your doors and windows, so you can be ready for storm season. Family-owned and operated, GM Door Window and Screen has been around since 1968. Call the pros at GM Door Window and Screen to get a free estimate.

(954) 797-0797.

By Daniela|2021-11-16T20:15:46+00:00May 21, 2021|Door Category, Impact Windows|