@diy_melissa @cars575 Thank you so much! That helps a ton. I’ll focus on those Florida brands when talking to companies. I was eyeing Andersen for looks, but I don’t think I want the upkeep or expense for the whole house. Maybe for a statement front window I’ll consider it, but likely I’ll stick with high-quality vinyl or fiberglass throughout.
I feel much better informed going into my consultations now. Really appreciate the guidance!
I’ve been quietly following this thread and just want to applaud everyone here. Florida folks sharing Florida-specific tips – you love to see it! 👏
I’ll add a quick anecdote: after my window install (did mine last year in Pinellas), the county inspector actually caught one minor issue – one window didn’t have the required amount of sealant in one corner of the nailing flange. The installer had to fix it and inspector came back to approve. I was impressed that the inspection was that thorough. It made me extra confident that these windows were set to withstand storms.
So yeah, echoing @cexplorer35 and others: don’t skip the proper process, it ensures quality. And our inspectors are on it!
@sgamer48 This has been such an awesome thread. Good luck with your window project! Please update us when it’s done – I’m dying to know what combination of style and features you ultimately choose (and maybe pics? 📸). Your home’s gonna be both stylish and fortified for sure.
I’ve learned so much from this conversation. Huge thanks to everyone who shared their experience and knowledge. This is why community forums rock – real people, real advice. Feeling grateful! 😊
Update/Conclusion: Wow, I am blown away by all the input – thank you so much, everyone! This thread turned into an incredible resource. I’ve taken in all the advice and ideas, and I’m ready to move forward with my window project armed with knowledge and confidence.
Here’s my plan based on your insights:
Frame Color: I’m going with black exterior frames and white interior. I love the modern contrast of black outside (thanks @math109 and others for the reassurance on durability and the two-tone option). Inside will stay white to keep things bright and match my trim.
Grids: I’ve decided to do a mix. Most windows will be gridless to maximize views and keep a clean look (especially in back where we overlook a little pond). However, I’ll add a subtle grid pattern on a couple of front-facing windows for character – likely a simple prairie or craftsman grid on the top sash only, to nod at a classic style without overdoing it. This way the house has some decorative touch from the curb, but I still get clear views elsewhere.
Window Styles: I’ll use double-hung windows in most rooms (I want that tilt-in cleaning and classic look). In a couple of wider openings, I’ll opt for sliders as recommended – for example, our large kitchen window will be a 2-panel slider so we can open it wide for pass-through and breeze. Possibly adding a small awning window high up in one bathroom for light. No major shape changes except maybe adding a transom above the front door if budget allows (to let more light in the foyer – got that idea from this thread!).
Materials & Brands: I’m leaning toward a high-quality vinyl impact window (PGT or CWS or Simonton – I’ll see what the quotes suggest). Those seem to offer the best combo of durability, efficiency, and the colors I want. I’ll be sure to get Low-E double-pane with argon in whatever I choose, and of course impact-rated glass all around (can’t skip that in Tampa Bay).
Installer: I’m going to get quotes from a couple of the companies mentioned. Karoly Windows and ProTech Windows are on my list for sure, since a few of you had good experiences. I’ll ask them lots of questions armed with the knowledge from this thread. I won’t necessarily pick the cheapest, but the one I feel most confident in regarding install quality and service.
Extras: Definitely doing everything by the book – permits, inspections, insurance paperwork for discounts. Also, thanks to tips here, I’ll make sure things like stainless hardware, proper sealing, and any HOA approvals are sorted out. And I won’t be DIYing this 😂 – I’ve seen now how complex it is.
I’m honestly excited for this project now. Instead of dread and uncertainty, I have a vision: my home with sleek black-accented windows that can withstand a storm, lower my energy bills, and look fantastic.
I’ll absolutely come back with an update (and pictures) once they’re installed. I can’t wait to enjoy the improved curb appeal, the quieter and cooler indoors, and the peace of mind next time a hurricane heads our way.
Big thanks again to everyone – @math109, @jmartin52, @fashion378, @mark_chef, @rwilson45, @science536... and really all of you! This turned out to be the perfect blend of style ideas and practical advice I needed.
Here’s to stylish and smart windows for all our Tampa Bay homes! 🏡✨
Sounds like you've got a really solid plan mapped out, and I like the thought you've put into balancing aesthetics with practical considerations. One thing I'd suggest reconsidering, though, is your choice of sliders for the kitchen window. I totally get the appeal—they're easy to open wide and great for ventilation—but in my experience, especially here in Tampa Bay, sliders can sometimes struggle with sealing tightly over time. The wider horizontal tracks can collect dirt and debris easily, making them a bit harder to maintain compared to double-hungs or casements.
A casement window might actually be a better fit for your kitchen pass-through. They crank open fully and provide an unobstructed opening without the center divider you'd have in a slider. Plus, casements tend to seal more tightly against wind-driven rain, which is definitely something to think about during hurricane season. I've installed quite a few of these in kitchens around here, and homeowners usually love how easy they are to operate and clean.
Also, I noticed you're leaning toward vinyl impact windows from PGT, CWS, or Simonton. Those are all solid brands, but don't completely rule out aluminum-clad wood if budget allows. They're pricier upfront, sure, but the durability and aesthetics—especially for black exterior frames—can be exceptional over the long haul. I've seen vinyl frames fade or chalk slightly over many years of intense Florida sun exposure, even high-quality ones. Aluminum-clad wood tends to hold up beautifully and can add some extra resale value down the road.
Anyway, just some food for thought based on what I've seen work well (and occasionally not so well) around here. Your overall vision sounds fantastic though—can't wait to see those pics once it's all finished!
Great points about casements, especially with our Tampa weather. Curious though, have you seen many issues with the crank mechanisms on casements over time? I've had a couple homeowners mention that after several years, the cranks can sometimes get sticky or harder to operate, especially in humid climates. Maybe it's just been their luck or the specific brand they chose...
Totally agree about the aluminum-clad wood frames holding up better aesthetically than vinyl long-term. But I'm wondering—do you find the maintenance on aluminum-clad wood more demanding than vinyl in terms of upkeep? I've seen some pretty faded vinyl frames around here too, but I've also had clients hesitant about aluminum-clad wood because they assume it'll require more attention.
Either way, sounds like you're really dialed into the details and thinking ahead. Looking forward to seeing how it all turns out.
"Curious though, have you seen many issues with the crank mechanisms on casements over time?"
Yeah, I've noticed the crank issue too—had a friend whose casement window cranks got pretty stiff after about 5-6 years. He ended up spraying some silicone lubricant every now and then, and that seemed to help a lot. As for aluminum-clad wood vs vinyl, honestly, I haven't found aluminum-clad wood to be much fussier. Vinyl fading can look pretty rough after a while... aluminum-clad just seems to age more gracefully.
I've had casement windows for about 8 years now, and yeah, the crank mechanisms can definitely get a bit stiff or gritty after a while. Like you mentioned, silicone lubricant does wonders—it's pretty much my go-to fix whenever they start feeling rough. I usually spray it once or twice a year, especially after the rainy season here in Tampa, since moisture seems to make things worse. But honestly, other than that minor maintenance, they've been pretty reliable.
"Vinyl fading can look pretty rough after a while... aluminum-clad just seems to age more gracefully."
Couldn't agree more with this point. When we first moved into our current place, the previous owners had installed vinyl windows on one side of the house (I guess to save money?), and aluminum-clad wood on the front facade for curb appeal. After just a few years, the vinyl windows facing south and west started looking noticeably faded and chalky from all the intense Florida sun. Meanwhile, the aluminum-clad ones up front still look sharp—no peeling or fading issues at all. Sure, aluminum-clad is pricier upfront, but it seems worth it if you plan on staying put for a while.
One thing I'd add about casement cranks—sometimes stiffness can also come from slight misalignment or sagging hinges over time. If silicone spray isn't helping as much as you'd like, check to see if the window sash itself is sitting straight in the frame. Adjusting or tightening hinges just slightly can make a surprising difference.
Overall though, casements have been great for ventilation and aesthetics in our home. The crank issue is minor enough that I wouldn't let it deter you from choosing them if that's what fits your style and needs best. Just keep a can of silicone spray handy and you'll probably be fine...
Good points about the aluminum-clad windows holding up better in our Florida sun. I've seen plenty of vinyl windows around here that look pretty rough after just a few years—chalky, faded, and honestly kind of cheap-looking. Aluminum-clad definitely ages better, but I wouldn't completely write off vinyl either. Some of the newer vinyl products have UV-resistant coatings that seem to hold up surprisingly well. I've installed a few sets for clients who were on tighter budgets, and they've held their color longer than I expected.
As for casement cranks, you're spot-on about alignment issues causing stiffness. Silicone spray is great for maintenance, but if you're constantly needing it, there's probably something else going on. Usually it's hinges or hardware that's slightly out of whack—especially if the window's been opened and closed frequently over the years. A quick adjustment can save you from having to crank so hard (and save your wrist too).
Overall though, casements are solid choices for ventilation and style in Tampa homes. Minor quirks aside, they're still one of my top recommendations when clients ask about window upgrades.