This might be a bit tangential, but for anyone getting new windows: did you need to get Homeowner Association (HOA) approval or special permits? In my neighborhood, any exterior change visible from the outside requires HOA approval. Technically windows count, especially if the grid pattern or frame color changes. I submitted for mine and it was fine since I kept the white frame and same grid style. Just something to be aware of for folks in HOA communities – check your guidelines so you don’t get in hot water.
Permit-wise, since we’re dealing with Florida, a permit is almost always required for window replacements (especially because of impact ratings and such in the building code). The company I hired pulled the permit with the city and we did have an inspector come out after installation to approve it. That’s routine. The inspector basically checked a random sampling of windows, looked at the stickers (to ensure they meet the code for impact or energy, etc.), and that the egress windows were the right size (bedroom windows need to meet a certain open size for escape, etc.). It was all good. Just don’t skip the permit – it can bite you later if you try to sell and it’s discovered you changed windows without one. Good thing is, professional installers will handle it, but if a company says “we don’t need a permit” – red flag 🚩. Yes, you do need it in our area.
@geo733 – 100% correct about permits. We did our project in Hillsborough County and the installer (Karoly Windows, in our case) took care of the permitting. The inspector came the day after installation. It was quick – he checked a couple of windows and our new door, looked at the labels for the Florida Product Approval number and the impact rating (we had some impact, some not – he mainly cared that the ones marked as impact had the proper sticker, etc.). He also checked that they operated and closed properly. We passed with no issues.
As for the HOA, we’re lucky not to have one 🙌. But my parents’ neighborhood does, and when they changed their windows, they had to get the HOA architectural committee to sign off. The HOA was mostly concerned that the frame color remained bronze (to match all homes) and that the grid pattern (grilles) matched the community standard. So yes, anyone in an HOA, definitely get that approval. It’s usually a formality if you aren’t changing the look too much. If you plan to change frame color (say from bronze to white, or add/remove grids) that could be something they scrutinize.
One more thing tangentially: after getting new windows, keep the documentation like warranty info and the NFRC stickers (or at least a photo of them). Those might be needed for rebates or future reference. I took pictures of each window’s NFRC label before the installer removed them (they usually peel them off at the end). This helped when I applied for the TECO rebate and the tax credit, because I had all the efficiency ratings handy.
Anyone have insights on the timeline from ordering to installation? I’m about to sign a contract for 10 windows and 2 doors and the company (a local window outfit) told me it could take 8-12 weeks for the windows to arrive after ordering, before installation can happen. Is that normal? They said manufacturing lead times are still a bit backed up. I was hoping to get this done before the hottest part of summer, but it might slide into it. Not a huge problem, but I’m curious how long others waited.
Also, how long did installation itself take for your projects? If they do 10 windows, is that like a one-day job or more like two? I assume if a company has a big enough crew, they can knock out a bunch in a day. But I’m trying to plan ahead, like should I take a day off work to be home, etc.
@puzzle5701092 – Your timeline sounds about right. Mine was about 10 weeks from contract sign to install. We signed in March and got installation in early June. It largely depends on the manufacturer’s backlog. During 2021-2022, some window lead times were crazy (like 4-5 months) due to supply chain issues, but it’s gotten better now. 8-12 weeks is pretty average for custom-made windows. If you’re ordering impact windows or any special shapes, lean towards the longer side. Standard sizes might come a bit quicker if they’re in stock, but most replacements are custom-sized to your openings.
As for installation duration: for 10 windows, I’d say 1 to 2 days. A skilled 2-3 person crew can usually do about 5-6 windows a day, depending on complexity and if they run into any snags (like wood rot that needs repair, etc.). In my case, I had 15 windows and 1 slider, and it took 3 full days with a 3-man crew. They probably could have rushed and done it in 2 long days, but they took their time and did it carefully, which I appreciated.
I would recommend you be home during installation if possible, at least on the start day, to go over any details with the lead installer (like which windows are impact vs not, any special instructions, etc.). Plus you’ll want to secure any pets, and having someone home is good for security of the house since windows will be out of their openings for a while. It’s quite a process to watch – they usually do one window at a time or a couple at a time, so your house isn’t just wide open everywhere. They’ll remove one, put the new one in, then move on. There will be some noise (sawing, hammering) and dust, but a good crew will minimize it. I put down some sheets to cover furniture near the work areas just in case.
After install, do a walk-through with them. Make sure all windows open, close, lock properly, screens are in, etc. And that they cleaned up. Most installers really want you to be satisfied, so don’t be shy pointing out if something looks off. It’s easier for them to fix it while they’re still on site.
I just want to express appreciation for everyone sharing their experiences. As a fellow Tampa Bay homeowner, this kind of detailed info is gold. A lot of us have similar homes and challenges (heat, hurricanes, etc.), and hearing real-world outcomes is so valuable. It’s one thing to read a sales brochure promising the world, and another to read neighbors talking about a realistic 15% bill reduction and how much happier they are.
When I started reading this thread, I was skeptical about spending so much on windows. Now, by the end, I’m feeling convinced that it’s one of those quality-of-life improvements I won’t regret. The fact that nearly everyone who’s done it is glad they did speaks volumes.
Plus, I’ve learned about things I wouldn’t have thought of: e.g., mixing impact and non-impact, checking for rebates, locking in permits/HOA approvals, and paying attention to installation details. This is like the ultimate cheat-sheet for window replacement in our area 😄.
So, thank you all! I’ll be joining the ranks of new-window owners soon and will share my story when I do.
I’ll wrap up with a little humor – I got my new windows installed last summer, and afterwards my cats were confused because suddenly their favorite sunspot wasn’t toasty anymore! They used to lounge by this one window because the sun made that area warm like a little sauna for them. Post-window upgrade, that spot is just normal room temperature. The cats actually started seeking out sun on the patio instead because inside it wasn’t as hot 😂. So, apologies to our pets perhaps, but for us humans it’s a big win.
On a more serious note, count me in as another happy customer of energy-efficient windows. It’s been over a year and I still occasionally put my hand on the glass on a hot day and go “wow, that really is keeping the heat out.” Science is cool. And my electric bills, while still not cheap (thanks Florida humidity), are definitely lower than they used to be.
If anyone reading this is still unsure, I’d say: if you can afford it and plan to stay in your home, go for it. It sounds like a cliché, but it truly makes your home more enjoyable to live in. And in the end, isn’t that what home ownership is about? Enjoying your space, not just worrying about the spreadsheets? The numbers help justify it, but feeling comfortable in your own house is priceless.
This has been a great discussion. See you all in other threads, and good luck to everyone getting their window projects done!