Best Impact Windows
Explore our picks for the best impact windows on the market today from manufacturers such as Simonton, PGT, Custom Window Systems, Stanek, and more. These windows and patio sliders are built specifically to stand up to severe weather events such as hurricanes and tropical storms.
Specifically, this means thick aluminum or vinyl mainframes, high quality hardware and components, and laminated glass. The glass is perhaps the most important piece of this puzzle. Laminated glass differs significantly from normal window glass. When struck by a hard object, laminated glass splinters without breaking apart. As a result, the window stays somewhat intact, and does not allow the wind and pressure to enter the home and cause massive damage.
Written By John M. - Site Editor
Last Update: January 22, 2025
Simonton 9800 Series
The Simonton 9800 series is not actually an impact window per se. Specifically, it hasn't gone through the rather expensive code requirements to be considered a hurricane window. The 9800 utilizes an upgraded glass package and sill reinforcement. The result is a DP45 rating (required for hurricane designation). All in all, a great option for homeowners looking for the best impact windows without breaking the bank doing it.
Best Impact Windows: PGT
The PGT WinGuard series is a strong and well built hurricane window. Overall, the Winguard series is nice looking, cleanly designed and very robust. Additionally, the 5500 series includes a number of impressive features such as a a constant force and spiral balance system, a SecureConnect and SnapLock auto locking system, an embedded tilt latch, a tilt sash and a beveled meeting rail.
PGT is one of the best impact windows companies and is headquartered in Florida. However, be aware that PGT pricing will be quite steep. Custom Window Systems is a nice alternative to PGT if the bid is simply out of your price range.
Stanek UltraExtreme
The Stanek UltraExtreme is one of the most durable hurricane windows that money can buy. Specifically, the series has a .21 U-value and a 70 design pressure rating (more or less an unbeatable DP rating). Also, the window comes standard with laminated glass and nice corner welds.
However, the Stanek warranty won't cover broken glass and cannot be transferred from owner to owner. One final note: Stanek is similar to Renewal windows in that they require consumers to use their installation teams. Probably a good thing when it comes to the best impact windows really doing what they were intended to.
Stanek UltraExtreme Series Cost
Simonton Stormbreaker
The storm breaker vinyl window is the actual hurricane window from Simonton. Specifically, it includes a .90 interlaced sickness which is quite a bit thicker than the .60 interlayer on the 9800 Series. Also, the Stormbreaker also includes a steel reinforcement on the sash and a laminate or tempered glass pane to achieve A DP 70 rating. Lastly, the Stormbreaker Plus is probably the stronger of the two when compared with the 9800, however it will be considerably more expensive as well.
Simonton Stormbreaker Plus Cost
Best Impact Windows: StormForce
The Loewen StormForce is by far the most expensive impact or hurricane window on our list. Truthfully, the window is really quite a thing of beauty, intricate craftsmanship beautiful materials and wood interior options. Furthermore, on the exterior, is a aluminum cladding that is quite strong and very well put together. The end result is a very expensive and very well-made hurricane window. Loewen is a Canadian based company, although they sell their windows in many states through local distributors and dealers.
Loewen StormForce Prices
Related Topic: Best Storm Windows
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