Tampa Bay Homeowners Compare Window Replacement Quotes and Costs

Bookmarking this thread for future reference. Tons of great info here. Thank you all!

I'm blown away by how detailed this discussion is. As someone about to start gathering quotes in Pinellas, I feel MUCH more prepared now. You all rock!

Jumping back in to say thanks for the negotiation tips above (shoutout @zshadow38). I used the advice and got one of my quotes down by $1,000 just by showing a competitor's lower bid and politely asking if they could beat it. They did!
So yeah, haggling works, folks. 💪

Slightly off topic, but when the install day comes, do you guys tip the window installers? If so, what’s customary? I'm about to schedule mine and was wondering if I should budget for a tip for the crew.

@geocacher77 - I don't think it's required, but I did give the install crew a tip because they did a great job and worked in the summer heat. I gave each of the 3 guys $50 and cold Gatorades during the work. They were very appreciative but by no means did anyone expect it.
Others might do less or more; I'd say it's like any service - if you feel they did excellent work, a tip is a nice gesture. If the crew is just doing their job adequately, no one will fault you for not tipping.

Budgeting a little extra for it isn't a bad idea, especially if you have a lot of heavy windows or a tough install (second story, etc.).

@geocacher77 - To echo @hiker61, totally optional. I didn’t tip my window crew because the owner of the company was actually on the install team (small local biz) and I already felt I paid a fair price. I did buy lunch for the crew though.
It really depends on the situation, but a nice gesture (cash or food/drinks) is always welcome if you’re happy with the work.

For reference, my quote in Odessa (Pasco) for 8 non-impact windows (vinyl, double-pane) was4,900fromalocalguy(GlassKing).Impactwouldhavebeen 
4,900fromalocalguy(GlassKing).Impactwouldhavebeen 
7,500. (Went with non-impact + shutters in the end.)

After reading all this, I'm actually excited to tackle my window project. Knowledge is power (and savings!). Thanks, everyone.

This thread is making my head spin a bit (so much info!), but better to know now than be surprised later. Grateful for all the insights here.

FYI, if you're in the city limits of Tampa, the permit costs and red tape might be a bit more than in the county. My permit for 10 windows was about $400 through City of Tampa (whereas I see some of you quoting $200 in Pasco). Not huge in the grand scheme, but something to note for budgeting if you’re in city vs county.

Side note: after I got impact windows, I sold my old aluminum hurricane shutters on Craigslist and got $300 back. 😂 Every little bit helps offset the cost!

This thread needs to be framed like a new window and stuck to the top of the forum. 😁 Such valuable info from everyone!

@waffles_campbell love the summary! I'm a data guy too, and that's exactly the ballpark I was coming up with from these posts. Good to know what "normal" is in terms of $/window.

On the tipping topic: I gave my install crew a case of beer to take home at the end of the job. They seemed pretty happy with that. 🍺

I spent more on my windows than I planned, but after going through a storm season with them, no regrets at all. The peace of mind and comfort are worth the cost. For anyone on the fence, it's a big expense but one that pays off in safety and savings long-term.

If you're not in a rush, consider scheduling your window install in the winter months. Some companies have off-season discounts or more flexibility (fewer backlogs than summertime). I got a small discount for a January install because it's a slower season. Florida winters are mild, so it's actually a convenient time to have windows out and in. Just a thought for budget timing!

Threads like this are why I love this community. Neighbors helping neighbors figure stuff out. Good luck to everyone with your window projects!

I'm so glad I stumbled on this thread. I was about to accept the first quote I got, but now I'm definitely going to get a couple more and compare line by line. You all might have saved me a bunch of money and grief. Thanks!

Glad to hear you got a great deal, @lindafisher438! That's what it's all about. Enjoy those new windows (and the lower AC bills hopefully!).

Alright, I'm convinced. Time to start calling around for my own quotes armed with all this info. Wish me luck!