Frequently asked questions
Plain answers, in one place.
Every question we get during a free estimate, written down once.
- Miami-Dade NOA
- Licensed & Insured in FL
- 7 Years in Florida
Made in the USA
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General
Before you start shopping.
Which impact-window brand should I choose?
It depends on your budget, your home's architecture, and the openings being replaced. Because our impact windows and doors are made in the USA, we recommend the series, frame color, and glass package that fit each opening — and explain exactly why.
What's the difference between impact windows and hurricane shutters?
Impact windows are permanent, factory-built units with laminated glass that absorbs storm debris on impact. Hurricane shutters are removable panels that you deploy before a storm. Impact windows protect 24/7, qualify for larger insurance credits, and don't require last-minute installation.
Already have a quote from another company — will you match it?
Yes. We built GlassIQ for the second-quote shopper. Bring the other quote during your free estimate. We match the same Miami-Dade-certified product spec line by line and tell you where we can do better. No bait-and-switch, no cheaper glass.
Impact windows
About the windows themselves.
Are aluminum or vinyl frames better in Florida?
Both work. Aluminum frames are stronger and handle larger openings — typical for sliders, picture windows, and oversized configurations. Vinyl frames have better thermal performance and are usually less expensive — a fit for smaller openings and energy-focused retrofits.
What window types do you install?
Single-hung, picture (fixed), casement, horizontal roller, awning, bay & bow, and geometric custom shapes. See the full impact windows page for spec details.
What is impact glass, exactly?
Two glass panes bonded to a polymer interlayer (PVB or SentryGlas). When struck, the outer pane may crack but the interlayer holds every shard in place. Full breakdown on the.
Impact doors
Front, sliding, French, garage.
Are sliding glass doors really hurricane-rated?
Yes. Hurricane-rated sliding glass doors use the same laminated impact glass and reinforced aluminum framing as impact windows, plus heavy-duty rollers and multi-point locking. .
Can I get an impact garage door?
Yes. Hurricane-rated garage doors are reinforced steel or aluminum panels with bracing and optional impact-glass inserts. Garage doors are the largest opening on most homes — failing in a storm causes catastrophic pressurization. Often the highest-ROI single upgrade.
What's the difference between impact doors and storm doors?
An impact door is the primary, structural entry door — laminated impact glass, reinforced frame, Miami-Dade NOA. A storm door is a secondary outer door for weather and pest protection. Most Florida owners replace the primary door with a certified impact unit rather than layering a storm door on top.
Process & install
From quote to inspection.
How long does the whole process take?
From free estimate to installed, plan on 8 to 12 weeks. Manufacturing is the longest phase at 6–10 weeks. Permitting takes about a week. Install itself is 1–3 days depending on window count. Full timeline on the installation page.
Does GlassIQ use subcontractors?
No. Every install is performed by GlassIQ's in-house crew. The same team that quoted you will be on the truck on install day.
Do you handle the permits?
Yes. We file the building permit with Sarasota, Manatee, Charlotte County, or your local jurisdiction. The permit fee is included in your quote. We coordinate the inspection after install and hand you the signed report.
Can I stay in my home during installation?
Yes. We work one room at a time, prep the openings with protective plastic, and contain dust to the work area. The house stays livable.
Financing
How the money works.
Do you offer financing?
Yes. We partner with national home-improvement lenders. Most approvals come back within one business day. Terms run 12 to 144 months, with promotional 0% APR and reduced-rate programs available. Full financing details.
What credit score do I need?
Most of our lender partners have programs starting at 640. Higher scores (700+) qualify for lower APRs and longer terms. We pre-screen against multiple lenders to find the one with the best terms for your profile.
Are there promotional rates?
Yes — common ones include 0% APR for 12–18 months (no interest if paid in the promo window) and reduced-rate 60-month programs. The available promos rotate; we walk through current options during the estimate.
Insurance & warranty
After install — what's covered, what you save.
Will impact windows lower my homeowners insurance?
Yes. Florida insurers offer a wind-mitigation credit for verified impact-rated windows and doors. Most clients see a 20–40% reduction on the wind portion of their premium. We provide the documentation your insurance carrier needs.
Are GlassIQ's products certified for hurricane zones?
Every window and door we install is certified to Miami-Dade and Broward County specifications — the highest impact rating issued in the United States — and meets Florida Building Code (FBC) and HVHZ requirements.
What does the GlassIQ warranty cover?
Two warranties cover every install. The factory warranty from the manufacturer covers the product. GlassIQ's 10-year installation warranty covers the workmanship. Both are issued in writing on the day you sign the contract. Full warranty details.
How do I file a warranty claim?
Call us first at 941 310 7028. We diagnose the issue, determine whether it falls under factory or installation coverage, and handle the manufacturer correspondence. You don't need to track down paperwork — we keep a copy of every install record on file.
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