If you are considering replacing your exterior storm windows, obviously, your goal is to find the perfect combination of protection, energy efficiency, and aesthetic appeal. However, with so many brands offering different materials, designs, and performance features, finding the right hurricane-rated option can not be as easy as it seems. Therefore, to make your decision easier, we’ve curated a list of top-rated brands that homeowners and industry experts consistently trust. Keep reading to explore the best exterior storm window replacement options for your home.
Key Factors to Consider Before Selecting a Storm Window Brand
1. Product Range and Customization
When selecting a storm window brand, it’s important to choose one that offers various styles, such as interior, exterior, triple-track, or fixed-panel storm windows, as well as options for different materials like vinyl, aluminum, or wood composites. Ensure the brand can accommodate unique sizes, shapes, and colors to match your home’s aesthetic and architectural requirements.
2. Industry Certifications
Look for hurricane-rated window brands with certifications like ENERGY STAR, which ensures energy efficiency, or NFRC (National Fenestration Rating Council) ratings for U-factor, SHGC, and air leakage. AAMA (American Architectural Manufacturers Association) certification is another mark of quality, indicating that the products meet rigorous standards for durability and performance.
3. Cost & Warranty
Compare prices across brands while considering long-term benefits. A strong warranty (5-10 years or more) reflects the brand’s confidence in its product’s durability and performance.
4. Customer Reviews and Ratings
Look for consistent positive feedback from customers regarding product quality, durability, and customer service. Check platforms like Google Reviews, BBB, or specialized home improvement forums.
Brands to Consider for Storm Window Replacement
Here are five well-respected manufacturers that make high-quality hurricane-rated windows. Each one caters to a distinct requirement with its own set of features and advantages:-
1. Simonton Hurricane-Rated Windows
Simonton is a well-established name in the window industry, recognized for its high-performance vinyl storm windows. These hurricane-rated windows are designed to provide excellent insulation, soundproofing, and weather resistance. Simonton’s storm windows feature fusion-welded frames, which enhance structural integrity, ensuring they can withstand heavy winds and harsh climates.
One of Simonton’s standout features is its double- and triple-pane glass options with Low-E coatings and argon gas fills, improving energy efficiency and reducing heat transfer. This results in lower heating and cooling costs throughout the year. Simonton custom storm windows also let you choose multiple color and style options to match various architectural aesthetics.
2. PGT Hurricane-Rated Windows
PGT (PGT Innovations) is a leading manufacturer specializing in impact-resistant storm windows, particularly beneficial for homeowners in hurricane-prone regions. These windows meet Miami-Dade County and Florida Building Code standards, making them one of the most trusted choices for coastal areas.
When looking for storm window replacement with PGT, you can choose from vinyl and aluminum storm windows engineered to resist extreme weather conditions. Their WinGuard® series is one of the best in the industry, featuring laminated impact-resistant glass that enhances home security while reducing noise pollution.
PGT windows offer exceptional UV resistance, blocking up to 99% of harmful UV rays to prevent furniture and flooring from fading. The brand also integrates energy-efficient coatings to optimize indoor temperature control. While PGT hurricane-rated windows are more expensive than standard storm windows, their superior durability and storm resistance make them an excellent long-term investment.
3. Custom Window Systems (CWS) Hurricane-Rated Windows
Custom Window Systems (CWS) is another top-tier brand that focuses on hurricane-rated storm windows with exceptional durability. Their products are designed and tested to withstand high winds, heavy rain, and flying debris, making them a popular choice for storm-prone areas.
This brand also offers vinyl and aluminum-framed storm windows, ensuring customers have various options based on their budget and aesthetic preferences. Their windows are known for tight weather seals and multi-chambered frames, which provide excellent thermal insulation and reduce energy costs.
A key advantage of CWS storm windows is their low-maintenance design, featuring durable materials that resist warping, rotting, and corrosion. Their impact-resistant glass enhances security while providing soundproofing benefits, making homes quieter and more comfortable.
CWS also offers custom sizing and design options, allowing homeowners to match windows seamlessly with their existing architecture. While slightly more expensive than some competitors, CWS storm windows are built to last and provide maximum protection against harsh weather conditions.
4. Andersen Hurricane-Rated Windows
Andersen is a household name in the window industry. It is known for producing premium-quality storm windows with a strong emphasis on energy efficiency and aesthetic appeal. Their hurricane-rated windows are available in wood, aluminum, and composite materials, catering to different durability and design needs.
One of Andersen’s standout offerings is its TruScene® insect screens, which allow for superior ventilation while keeping insects out. The brand’s Low-E glass coatings and double-pane insulation technology significantly reduce heat loss during winter and minimize heat gain in summer, making them highly energy-efficient.
5. ES Windows Hurricane-Rated Windows
ES Windows provides a broad selection of hurricane-rated windows engineered for maximum protection, durability, and energy efficiency. Their impact-resistant windows adhere to stringent safety regulations, including Miami-Dade County procedures, making them appropriate for coastal and hurricane-prone locations.
Popular models, such as the ES-1000, ES-2000, and ES-5100, include laminated glass that can resist high winds, flying debris, and adverse weather conditions. These windows also have excellent design pressure ratings and water infiltration resistance, which ensures long-term performance.
ES Windows’ Elite® Collection offers beautiful and practical solutions for both residential and commercial premises. With a focus on innovation, these hurricane-rated windows improve security, noise reduction, and thermal insulation while retaining an appealing appearance.
Final Words
We hope this discussion on the selection of storm windows exterior and their top brands will be helpful for you. It is clear that investing in high-quality hurricane-rated windows ensures durability and long-term cost savings, but proper installation is just as crucial for maximizing their benefits. Instead of risking improper fitting with a DIY approach, trust professionals. We at The Window Depot offer premium hurricane-rated windows and professional installation services to guarantee lasting performance. Contact us today!
