One more tidbit on dealing with the Florida sun: I had some west-facing windows that even with Low-E glass, my living room was getting warm in late afternoons. Instead of replacing those (they were already fairly new), I ended up applying a window tint film (ceramic tint) which is almost clear but cuts a lot more heat. It’s an option for anyone who maybe can't replace all windows but wants better heat rejection. Of course, if you're getting new windows, you can often choose glass with a higher solar heat blockage. On my new ones for the rest of the house, I opted for a slightly gray-tinted Low-E. From outside, the glass has a faint reflective quality, but nothing too mirror-like. From inside, you don't notice the tint, just that it's not as blinding when the sun hits.
Aesthetic impact of tints is something to consider – a strong reflective tint can change the look of your windows (some high-rises have that mirror-glass look). For a home, I personally like it to be subtle. Just another thought in the realm of mixing function (heat control) with design (appearance of the glass).
Slightly off-topic, but for those new fancy frames (black, bronze, etc.), how’s the maintenance? Do they chip or scratch with cleaning? I’ve only ever had white vinyl which basically just needs a wipe down. I’m asking because I’m considering black frames but nervous about longevity of the finish.
I’ve been quietly following this thread and just want to say thanks to everyone. As a new homeowner in Tampa Bay (bought a 1978 ranch in Brandon), I was clueless about windows. Now I feel like I have a treasure trove of ideas and knowledge. Can't wait to apply this when we plan our reno. You guys rock!
(Haha, another Sue here!) One idea I didn't see mentioned: if you enjoy outdoor entertaining, consider a pass-through window from the kitchen to the patio. We installed a large awning-style window that flips up (with gas struts) above our kitchen counter, opening directly to our back patio. We put a counter on the outside too, so it serves as a bar. It's been a hit at parties – I can pass drinks and plates through without stepping outside, and it really blends indoor-outdoor living. We made sure it’s impact-rated of course (it's basically like half of a glass door opening). It has a bronze frame to match our other windows and no grids, so when it's closed it just looks like a regular big window. If you entertain or have a nice patio, these kinds of functional yet trendy windows are awesome!
As someone who grew up in Florida and is now renovating my second house here, I just want to say how crucial it is to consider our unique climate in every design choice. Windows are no exception: in another state, you might focus just on looks, but here it’s looks plus hurricane resilience plus heat plus humidity. I think this thread nailed that balance with all the suggestions. Whether it's black, white, bronze, grids or no grids, ultimately the best “trend” is making your home safer and more comfortable while looking great. So kudos to everyone sharing practical style tips that acknowledge our weather realities.
I'm not right on the coast (over in Winter Haven), but we face similar issues with sun and storms. We did our windows last year and went with white vinyl double-hungs all around, mainly because it fit the style of our 80s brick house. Reading through these posts, I see some things I wish I'd known (like the black/bronze trend... might have considered bronze!). But at least we did go impact and energy-efficient.
I just wanted to chime in that even inland, the hurricane windows gave us such peace of mind. When those crazy summer thunderstorms roll in, I no longer rush to put up plywood or worry. It's like the stress level of homeownership here went down a notch. For anyone on the fence about impact vs regular (with shutters), I'd vote impact if you can swing it. It's just one-and-done.
By the way, for anyone still looking for visual inspiration (like I always do), sites like Houzz and Pinterest have tons of photos of Tampa/Florida homes with different window styles. That's where I first fell in love with the black frame look, seeing it on a Spanish-style home. I also saw some cool modern beach houses with giant windows on there. It can help to actually see examples similar to your house style. But warning: it's a rabbit hole – I lost hours browsing dreamy window pics! 😅 This thread plus some online eye-candy = a recipe for a solid plan.
This discussion has been such a nice deep-dive. I'm actually one step ahead on my project now, thanks to all of you. I have a meeting with a window contractor next week and I feel armed with the right questions and a clear vision of what we want. Just wanted to express my gratitude as well.
Super thread! I feel like I can make a whole checklist from this. Quick question, @design_barbara (or anyone): how long did it take from ordering to installation? I'm curious about timeline nowadays. Also, did you consider any other companies aside from Pro Tech? (I'm compiling a list to call for quotes myself.)
I wasn't even planning a window project, but after reading this thread I want to upgrade mine too! 😂 Huge thanks to everyone. Enjoy your new windows – you’ve inspired a bunch of us, it seems!