If you have a security system with sensors on your windows, don't forget to coordinate that. We had wired alarm contacts on all our windows (little sensors that detect if the window opens). When we got the new windows installed, those had to be removed and could not be reused as-is. We ended up having the alarm company come back after installation to put new wireless sensors on the new windows. It was an extra cost I hadn't initially thought about until the installer mentioned it.
So just a pro-tip: budget for redoing any security sensors (or at least notify your alarm company so they can work with you on timing). We had our alarm guy come the day after window install to stick on new sensors. Now all good.
One random thing we encountered: our existing window blinds didn't fit the same after replacement. The new windows had a slightly different frame depth and slightly smaller glass area (due to thicker frames). Most of our old blinds still covered the windows, but one or two we had to replace with new blinds because the mounting hardware wouldn't fit the new frame properly. It wasn't a huge deal, but just something to check. If you have custom blinds or shutters on your windows, mention it to the installer. They sometimes can put in a filler trim piece or advise on how the new windows will affect those treatments.
In our case, we ended up getting new cordless blinds after the install as part of our "home refresh," so it worked out. But heads up if you plan to reuse everything as-is around the windows.
Late to the party, but this discussion is fantastic. I'm learning a ton. Thanks everyone!
I'm right in the middle of gathering quotes and this thread is a godsend. Now I have a checklist of questions to ask each contractor (about permits, warranty, DP ratings, etc.) that I wouldn't have known otherwise. Feeling much more prepared, thank you all!
One more tip: after installation, take pictures of the stickers/labels on your new windows (the ones that show the model, glass rating, etc.) before the installers remove them or before you paint over anything. This way you have record of the product numbers and ratings if you ever need it for insurance or future reference. Our inspector actually took note of those, but I kept photos just in case.
On the insurance note - I just got my homeowners insurance renewal after getting impact windows and it went down about $500/year for having all openings protected. (This is with Citizens Insurance, which many of us end up with in Florida if others drop us). Previously I only had shutters on some windows and got a smaller credit. Now with windows + an impact-rated garage door, I'm getting the full wind mitigation credit. So, while $500/yr won't pay off the windows quickly, it's definitely nice to have that savings and it will accumulate over time. Plus, some insurers simply won't fully insure a house unless you have protections, so it helps keep you insurable too.
Nice, @donnabaker. My insurance also went down after window upgrades. Every bit helps given how insurance rates are these days.
I'll share a cautionary tale I heard from a neighbor: they hired some unlicensed jack-of-all-trades to do their windows for super cheap, and he didn't pull any permits. Well, apparently another neighbor reported it (or an inspector noticed during another job), and my neighbor ended up with a stop-work order and a headache of fines. They had to then get the work inspected and some of it wasn't up to code, so it was a mess.
Moral: Always use a licensed company and get the proper permits. It's not worth saving a few bucks only to risk your safety and wallet down the line. Most stories here thankfully are folks doing it the right way, but I just wanted to toss that out there as a reminder.
Did anyone add any extra window tint or film after installation, or is the Low-E coating enough for privacy/heat? I had reflective film on my old windows (for privacy), but with the new impact glass I'm not sure if I need it. The Low-E has a slight tint but not as mirrored as my old aftermarket film was. I'm thinking of maybe adding a light ceramic tint on the west side windows. Curious if others felt the need to add tint or were happy with just the factory Low-E.
@tech905 I debated adding an extra tint too because I was used to the mirror-like privacy film on my old windows. In the end I decided to live with the new windows as-is for a while. It turns out the Low-E glass in the new windows already does a decent job; from outside in daytime you can't really see in due to the reflection, at least on mine. It's not as dark as an aftermarket tint, but it's sufficient for me.
One thing to note: adding aftermarket tint on impact windows can sometimes void the warranty or affect the glass (if it causes more heat absorption). My window manufacturer explicitly said do not apply aftermarket film as it could cause thermal stress and crack the glass. So check your window's documentation or ask the manufacturer before you stick any film on.
So far, I'm happy without additional tint. It’s bright inside and not too fishbowl-y from outside. If I do anything, I might install some window treatments like shades or reflective screens for the hottest part of the day, instead of messing with the glass itself.