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 |2021-11-16T20:15:46+00:00May 21, 2021|Door Category, Impact Windows|
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Impact / Hurricane Windows and Doors versus Shutters

There are many considerations when deciding between hurricane shutters and replacing your windows and doors with impact / hurricane rated windows and doors.  Both provide significant protection in the event of a storm, but homeowner’s these days really appreciate how brand new impact windows and doors really update the look of the home.  Now if budget is your main concern then shutters might be the best choice. 

GM –Door, Window & Screen offers both options and will help you decide what is best for your circumstance.  

Impact / Hurricane Windows and Doors versus Shutters

  • Shutters need to be put up and taken down before and after each storm threatens.  Hurricane windows and doors provide continuous protection. 
  • Shutters are a more budget friendly option over impact windows and doors. 
  • Both Shutters and impact rated windows and doors can reduce your home owners insurance cost.  One should be aware that all openings: windows, sliding glass doors, exterior doors and garage doors need to be impact rated or have a shutter installed to enjoy a rate reduction.  
  • It should be note having shutters or impact windows and doors will increase the value of your home, plus make it easier to sell when the time comes. 
  • Finding space to store shutters when not in use is often an issue for homeowners.
  • Old windows and doors will need to be eventually replaced, so installing hurricane shutters over old windows and doors will cost more in the long run when it comes time for replacement.
  • New impact rated windows and doors have the following added benefits:
    • Increased energy efficiency – Energy consumption will most certainly be reduced replacing old leaky windows and doors.
    • Increased security – Kicking in doors or breaking windows is the main way thieves gain access to a home.  This is virtually impossible with impact rated windows and doors. 
    • UV light protection – new impact windows will significantly reduce UV light which damages furniture, flooring and artwork.   
    • Noise reduction – With new impact windows and doors you will see a significant reduction in the amount of outside noise entering your home. 
  • With shutters you may end up sitting in the dark if the power goes out day or night.  Many prefer impact windows that gives them a view of the activity that is going on outside, while still remaining safe.    

Whether you choose hurricane / Impact resistant windows and doors or shutters , GM – Door, Window & Screen does it all with our own professional installation team.  Family owned and operated since 1968.  Give us a call for a free estimate (954) 979-0797. 

By |2021-04-30T16:30:23+00:00April 30, 2021|Door Category, Hurricane Shutters, Impact Windows|
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Door, Window and Screen Installation and Repair – Do it Yourself, Hire a Handyman or Hire a Pro?

In most cases installing exterior doors, windows and screen enclosures is best left to the professionals.   And the answer is…Yes, to the question, “Do I need a permit?” 

For repairs the biggest challenge is finding the right part.

New windows can greatly enhance the look of your home.

However, if you do have the skill and experience these are jobs that can be tackled by a highly skilled do it yourselfer, who possesses advanced carpentry skills and possesses the proper tools.  Before taking on such jobs yourself, another factor to keep in mind is the time it will take to complete the job and is it worth it. 

In regards to hiring a handyman or independent contractor for such jobs, you should check how long they have been in business, check references and see if they have the necessary experience and  certifications.  Improper installation will cause you to not pass inspection or void the product warranty.   Be sure to research the product warranty requirements.   

GM – Door, Window & Screen not only does residential and commercial installations and repairs, but has established itself as a leading distributor and supplier of high-quality products and parts for the do-it-yourselfer, handyman or independent contractor.  We work with a wide variety of well-known manufacturers to give you plenty of options from which to choose.  If you are a contractor, handyman or do-it-yourselfer we can supply Impact and Non-Impact rated Windows, Impact and Non-Impact rated Sliding Glass Doors, Impact and Non-Impact rated Entrance Doors, Impact and Non-Impact Rated Garage Access Doors, and Impact and Non- Impact rated Exterior French Doors.  GM also carries everything needed for Patio / Pool Screen Enclosures, Insulated Roof Screen Enclosures, and Screen Doors.  

We can source most all replacement parts for windows and doors specializing in old, hard to find and in some cases discontinued parts.  GM is also your go to resource for glass and mirror replacement.  We can cut while you wait for immediate repairs of broken glass on your non-impact windows.  

As part of our service, we also manufacture window screens for all types of windows as well as sliding screen doors.

Located in the heart of Broward County in Plantation you can pick- up products and parts in our store.   We are family owned and operated and have been in business since 1968.  Our bilingual staff is ready to assist with your projects.  Give us a call at (954) 797-0797.   

By |2021-03-30T19:02:26+00:00March 30, 2021|Door Category, Impact Windows, Screen Enclosures|
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Financing Options for Impact Windows and Doors

Hurricane / Impact windows and doors are a great investment to protect your family, increase your homes energy efficiency and may also reduce the wind portion of your property insurance cost by up to 77% depending on the age of your home and the type of improvement. 

So what are your home improvement financing options if you do not have the liquid cash to spend? 

One option is to take a traditional home equity loan.  Sometimes these loans can take several weeks to secure, but this will not make sense if your repair or upgrade is needed quickly.  Also, if you have an impaired credit score that could exclude you from qualifying for a home equity loan.    

A great financing option for eligible Florida property owners is through Ygrene’s Property Accessed Clean Energy (PACE) financing program.  Homeowner’s can receive up to 100 percent financing to make energy efficiency and wind resistance home improvement and repairs.  Financing is based upon available home equity, ability to pay, along with other factors. The funding is repaid through an assessment included on 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.    

The PACE program was made available by the state legislation and approved by local governments, but is not a government incentive or subsidy program.  It is a long-term, fixed rate source of financing that allows homeowners to do energy conservation and hurricane hardening improvements to their property.  PACE financing was specifically designed to fill the gap when financial institutions were reluctant to finance these types of home improvement projects.      

PACE assessments can be paid off at any time and residential PACE programs do not have any early prepayment fees.  The PACE program makes it easy for homeowners to make home improvements by eliminating up-front cash payments and provides a competitive interest rate.  In addition, there are no interest rate adjustments and no balloon payment. 

The PACE assessment is attached to the property, rather than the property owner, so if you sell the property before the assessment is paid off the balance of the assessment remains with the property.   At the time of sale you can pay off the assessment or negotiate with the buyer to pay off the balance.

Call GM – Door, Window and Screen to set up a free estimate.  

By |2024-04-03T16:12:13+00:00February 25, 2021|Door Category, Hurricane Shutters, Impact Windows|
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Condensation on your New Impact Windows and Doors

When you upgrade your windows and doors with high efficiency, impact products you may experience condensation issues.   This has nothing to do with improper installation, but just the opposite is true.  Now that your home is properly sealed the temperature differential between the interior and exterior of the home coupled with high humidity can cause condensation.  

Let’s take a look at some common causes and some recommended solutions to reduce condensation. 

Exterior Condensation

Exterior condensation, also known as dew, is the result of the window or door being cooled from the indoor temperature as compared to the temperature outside, which is a common scenario in South Florida.  Exterior condensation on a properly sealed home is perfectly normal.   An air conditioning vent blowing directly on an exterior window can also cause exterior condensation.   

Potential Solutions

  • Sunshine and the daily heat of the day typically takes care of exterior condensation. 
  • Position air conditioning vents from directly blowing on windows.
  • If it really bothers you take the time to wipe down the outside of your windows or doors. 

Interior Condensation

This is a result of high indoor humidity that can be caused by the following reasons:

  • Air conditioner is not working properly and removing indoor humidity.
  • Poor ventilation.
  • Showering & Bathing.
  • Cooking.
  • Laundry.

Potential Solutions

  • Reduce Moisture
    • Have your HVAC system checked to make sure it is properly dehumidifying your home.
    • Purchase a dehumidifier or employ a moister eliminator, such as Damp/Rid. 
  • Circulate the Air
    • Install bathroom and kitchen exhaust fans and utilize them during and for 15 minutes after cooking, bathing and doing laundry.
  • Improve Ventilation
    • Open window and door coverings during the day.
    • Install ducting that will take air to the outside of your home when washing or drying clothes.
  • Raise the temperature in your home. 

Condensation between the Glass Panes

Condensation buildup between glass panes is abnormal and is indicative of a faulty window or door seal.   First try to wipe the interior and exterior panes to determine if the condensation is indeed between the glass panes.  If there is still moisture then you will want to contact the manufacturer or dealer to determine how to handle the faulty window or door. 

By |2021-02-11T23:19:38+00:00February 10, 2021|Door Category, Impact Windows|
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Window and Sliding Glass Door Maintenance and Care Tips

Most people take their windows and sliding glass doors for granted, but they require some regular maintenance to make sure they operate properly.   In South Florida with the exception of a few short months your windows remain closed and that can be an issue when you finally do go to open them and find they are stuck.  So aside from just cleaning the glass, at least once a year you should give all your windows a thorough inspection.      

  1. To ensure smooth operation you should routinely clean out the tracks of windows and sliding glass doors.  Use a dry brush to remove dirt and debris, a shop vacuum or vacuum also comes in handy to clear out the tracks.  You may have to do this more often if a tree or a bush is near the window and is constantly dropping debris onto the track.     
  2. After clearing the tracks you should wash the tracks and frames using a mild soap using a soft cloth or sponge.  Then dry then using a clean dry cloth.  Do not use scouring pads, steel wool or a scrubbing pad which can damage the window frame surface.    
  3. Exercise or open and close all windows and sliding glass doors to make sure they operate properly.  A window sliding glass door that has been left shut for some time will likely be difficult to operate.  
  4. As a word of warning do not use petroleum based products to lubricate your windows or sliding glass doors.   Not only can this ruin the finish, but oil will attract dirt, dust and debris.  Instead choose an oil free silicone based lubricant available at your local home improvement store.  Spray the track evenly with a light coat and open and close the window or sliding glass door several times to evenly distribute the lubricant. When applied this will help with the smooth operation of your window or sliding glass door.  
  5. If you live close to the ocean salt air is extra tough on windows and sliding glass doors.  We recommend you thoroughly clean your windows and sliding glass doors quarterly.  
  6. While cleaning your windows and sliding glass door you should give them a thorough inspection.    Over time a house can settle and changes in temperature will cause a natural expansion and contraction of your home.   This can cause the seal on your widows to fail and your home will no longer be weather tight.  These gaps can cause air leaks and that will increase your energy bills and these gaps will also allow water intrusion.  You will need to replace any caulk at the joints if you see it beginning to fail and repair any windows that have become misaligned.  Even a small leak can cause significant damage over time.   If you see discoloration on the walls or window sills or paint bubbling that is a sign of a leak and that should be addressed immediately.   Use touch up paint to cover any paint chips that you find on the frames. 

Regular window and sliding glass door maintenance will extend the life of your investment and give you years of trouble free operation.    

GM – Door, Window & Screen is a family run business that has been around since 1968.  If you need service or window replacement please gives us a call at (954) 797-0797.      

Homeowner's Insurance by GM Door Window and Screen in Plantation, FL.
It is important to regularly maintain your windows and sliding glass doors.
By |2023-02-10T18:27:56+00:00January 15, 2021|Impact Windows|
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Proper Installation of Impact Windows and Impact Doors

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

In storm prone South Florida just as important as selecting quality impact windows and exterior doors is making sure they are properly installed.  All work should be done by an experienced professional.  Be wary of purchasing windows and doors from companies that use subcontractors to do the installation or using a handyman.  Improper installation can be a very expensive mistake.    In order to qualify for insurance discounts you need to make sure your windows and doors are installed according to the manufacturers’ specifications.  And the answer is yes to the question; do I need a permit for installing impact windows and impact exterior doors?   

Here are the top 10 things to look for when installing impact windows and doors. 

  1. Double Check the Measurements – A proper fit is needed to make sure impact windows and doors will function properly and will protect your home in the event of a storm.     
  2. Careful Removal of the Old Existing Window – In most cases the old windows can be removed without issues.  With that said at times there is prexisting damage to the structure, facing, sills or molding or unavoidable damage from removing old windows.   Often the installer will repair typical damage and do minor stucco work.  Established with the installer what repairs they will handle and when you might need to bring in other professionals.    
  3. Replace or Repair Old Framing – Because of previous water damage, wood rot or termite damage framing might need to be repaired or replaced.  Extensive damage of this type might involve additional cost or bringing in an outside professional to make repairs, so make sure to always address leaks and termite issues as soon as they become apparent. 
  4. Positioning of the New Windows and Doors – Your new windows and doors need to be installed so they are square, level and plumb, meaning they are 90 degrees at the corners.   This is necessary to make sure the windows and doors will operate properly.  
  5. Insulation – At times spray foam insulation is used to reduce unwanted air infiltration and spray foam insulation is very good at resisting heat infiltration. 
  6. Exterior Caulking – A thick bead of quality outdoor caulking is needed to insure a waterproof seal. 
  7. Interior Finishing – Make sure to review with the installer the finish work that will need to be done on the inside of the home. 
  8. Worksite Clean – Up – Professional installers will clean up after their work daily, and that should include disposing of the old windows. 
  9. Painting – Invariably you should be prepared to do paint touch up work on the interior and exterior around a new door or window installation. 
  10. Walk Through with your Installer – Once everything is installed you should go around with your installer to make sure all the windows and doors open, close and lock properly. 

Finally, it is time for the final inspection by your municipality to confirm your impact windows and impact doors have been properly installed.  The inspection will confirm your impact windows and exterior impact doors meet local building code requirements.   There are stickers affixed to the windows and doors that must remain in place for the inspection.  This sticker shows the inspector the manufacturer, impact rating, wind pressure rating, and energy efficiency.

GM Doors, Windows and Screen employs  its own professional, in-housed installation team.   We make sure the job is done right and on time.   Give us a call for a free estimate (945) 797- 0797.     

By |2023-02-10T18:33:01+00:00January 12, 2021|Door Category, Impact Windows|
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Top 10 Reasons to replace your old windows with Impact Windows.

  1. Impact Windows, also known as Hurricane Windows, provide turnkey protection against major storms.

Hurricane or Impact Windows main function is to provide protection from wind, water and wind born debris in the event of a storm. Impact-resistant glazing, also known as hurricane windows, are windows that have been tested for wind loads and wind-borne debris. Broward, Coastal Palm Beach and Miami-Dade are located in a High Velocity Wind Zone and Impact Windows must meet the most stringent testing requirements. Impact windows are laminated glass consisting of two or more clear panes of glass bonded together with a clear plastic-like film (usually polyvinyl butyral) sandwich between the two panes. If cracked or broken the glass fragments will adhere to the plastic interlayer preventing water, wind or debris from entering the home. Impact windows generally have heavier frames than regular residential windows. If a storm does threaten, your home is hurricane ready with no worry about hanging up plywood or putting up hurricane shutters.

2. Impact Windows provide a tremendous return on investment.

Are impact windows and doors worth the cost? In South Florida there is no doubt you will instantly receive a nice return on your investment. When it comes time to sell your home having new impact windows will return on average 70 to 77 percent of the cost. Replacing older windows is always listed in the top 10 for the best ROI by real estate and remodeling websites.

3. You may save money on your homeowners insurance

South Florida has the highest homeowners insurance rates in the state. Windstorm coverage is a special type of property-casualty insurance that protects policyholders from property damage caused by hurricanes and tornados.  Adding impact windows and impact doors, along with an impact garage door can provide a substantial discount on the wind mitigation portion of your policy.

4. Adding impact windows will be a great selling point when you decide to leave your home.

A common real estate adage says “kitchens sell houses”, however a mid-range kitchen remodel will have an ROI of only 59 percent. In hurricane prone South Florida, outdated windows and doors that require you to hang up shutters when a storm approaches will often deter buyers who are looking for safety and security. Buyers will most certainly request a credit for new windows. Moreover, before you sell your home you will get to enjoy turnkey storm protection, energy efficiency, better sound proofing and tremendous curb appeal. Having impact windows is a great selling point and can help you get top dollar when it comes time to sell your home.

5. Additional security.

Not only do you get protection from storms, but thieves know that it is virtually impossible to break through hurricane windows. Breaking and entering through a window is one of the primary ways thieves gain entrance to your home.  Once a thief sees that you have impact widows they will often move on to find a home that is an easier target. 

6. Adding Impact Windows will give your home amazing curb appeal.

Windows making up on average 35 percent of the exterior of any home.  Replacing your tired looking and non-functioning windows with new impact windows will give your home an updated and fresh look. 

7. There are special financing options that can make replacement impact widows an affordable option.

GM – Doors, Window and Screen offers financing options to qualified property owners to make energy efficiency and wind resistance improvement and repairs through Ygrene’s Property Accessed Clean Energy (PACE) financing program. Here is how it works – property owners can get up to 100% financing based upon available home equity, ability to pay, along with other factors. The funding is repaid through an assessment included on 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.

8. New Impact Windows will help reduce your energy bills. 

Old windows often leak air causing your air conditioner to continuously run driving up your energy costs. New impact windows will keep your home air tight. Radiant energy from the sun is another way windows transfer heat.  You can opt for tinted windows that will provide greater energy efficiency by reducing radiant heat. 

9. Adding a tint to new impact windows will reduce Ultra Violet (UV) light that causes items in your home to fade.     

The inner filling of new impact windows can be ordered in various color tints to help reduce UV damage. UV light from the sun over time does plenty of damage to the contents of your home – including artwork, furniture, wood floors, carpets and home furnishing.  

10. Impact windows significantly reduce outside noise.

Because of their thickness Impact Windows provide insulation from the amount of outside sounds coming into the home. You will immediately notice the peace and quiet provided by new impact windows.  

GM – Door, Window & Screen is a family owned and operated business operating since 1968 that specializes in impact replacement windows and doors.  With our own 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 |2020-12-19T16:55:19+00:00December 19, 2020|Impact Windows|
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