Home Windows Archives - 1st Choice Hurricane Protection

October Maintenance Checklist: Keep Your Impact Windows in Peak Condition

SEO Vectra on November 4, 2025

Impact windows need periodic maintenance to function properly. In coastal areas where humidity is high, your windows require even more care. To keep them in top shape, do seasonal checkups so they continue to offer reliable protection against storms and harsh winds. Here’s a maintenance checklist that provides step-by-step guidance to help you keep your impact windows performing at their best.

1. Clean the Glass and Frames

To clean your windows, use a dry, soft microfiber cloth to wipe and remove any loose dust from the window panes. Wipe the frames, tracks, and sills carefully to remove any built-up debris. After this, use a mixture of mild dish soap and water and apply it with a soft sponge on the glass. Then rinse and dry the window frames completely. Remember to avoid any harsh cleaners or sponges as they can damage the protective coating of your windows.

2. Inspect the Seals

Check the seals of the windows carefully. Look closely to see if there are any signs of cracks, peeling, or worn-out weather stripping. A damaged or loose seal can allow wind drafts to enter your home, reducing energy efficiency and allowing water to seep in during storms. In case you notice any gaps or stiffness in the seals, get them replaced by a professional promptly.

3. Examine the Glass and Frames

Storms and hurricanes can cause flying projectiles to strike your windows. Due to repeated impact, the impact glass can develop cracks. Check the window frames carefully to see if there are any signs of corrosion or damage. If there is any warping, discoloration, or damage, contact a professional to get these issues fixed quickly, before they turn into even bigger problems.

4. Lubricate the Hardware

Moving parts of impact windows, like locks, hinges, and rollers, also need care. Using a silicone-based lubricant suitable for impact windows on all the moving mechanisms can help keep them smooth and rust-free. Regular lubrication can also increase the lifespan of your hardware. Open and close each window a few times so it operates smoothly and doesn’t get jammed.

5. Check Drainage and Tracks

Many impact windows have drainage channels that allow water to escape during heavy rain. Over time, these channels can get clogged with dirt and debris, resulting in water buildup. Use a soft brush or a vacuum to clean out these channels, keeping the tracks free from debris. With clean tracks, you can ensure the smooth operation of your impact windows.

6. Prepare for Seasonal Changes

Major weather changes take place after October, so you must ensure all your windows are tightly locked and sealed to prevent wind and water from entering your home during storms. Trim any tree branches that are too close to your windows, as they can become dangerous projectiles, damaging your windows and affecting their performance.

Contact 1st Choice Hurricane Protection today for service and repair of impact windows in Fort Myers, FL. Our skilled team offers expert services ensuring your impact windows remain your home’s strongest defense against storms and harsh weather. Partner with us to keep your home protected all year round.

Why August is the Most Critical Month for Testing Your Hurricane Shutters and Impact Windows

SEO Vectra on August 27, 2025

When preparing for hurricane season, timing matters the most. August is an important month for testing your hurricane protection. At this time, you should thoroughly check whether your hurricane shutters and impact windows are functioning smoothly or not. Let’s understand how you can use this time to your advantage and keep your home well-protected.

1. Peak Storm Activity

Officially, the hurricane season starts on June 1 and ends on November 30. The peak period is from early August to the end of October. Before the peak storm season begins, you should take action by inspecting your home’s hurricane protection.

2. Avoid Last-Minute Panic

By the time August starts, the hurricanes are almost here, so waiting too long can be risky. Most impact door and window companies see a huge increase in installation and repair requests at this time. Delaying maintenance or replacements any longer can leave you waiting for a long time. By preparing in August, you can ensure your home is well-protected before the weather turns harsh.

3. Annual Testing

Experts suggest testing hurricane windows and doors properly before the hurricane season starts. You should try closing and opening them to make sure that they are smooth and secure. Check their seals and look out for any cracks or locking issues. In case you notice any problems, get them fixed promptly, so that they remain durable even during the harshest of storms.

4. Insurance and Compliance

Getting annual inspections done before the storm season can help reduce insurance premiums and ensure compliance with local safety requirements. Instead of waiting for a hurricane warning, get the annual inspection done early to stay worry-free.

5. More Protection

Impact windows offer comprehensive protection. You don’t need to deploy them in a hurry before the storm, they are always there. All you need to do is check their seals, frames, and latches occasionally. While shutters also provide good protection, they need to be actively deployed. By installing both shutters and impact windows, you can get two layers of protection and keep your home safe at all times.

6. Extend Longevity

Annual maintenance helps increase the lifespan of impact windows, doors, and shutters. During maintenance, remember to inspect the hardware, look for rust and bent frames. Clean the tracks and lubricate the hinges using the manufacturer’s recommended lubricant. Get repairs done ahead of time so that all slots don’t get booked. By doing all this beforehand, you can make sure your home is storm-ready and avoid last-minute panic. Speak to your insurer to finalize inspection paperwork before premiums increase.

Contact 1st Choice Hurricane Protection

Check your home’s hurricane protection ahead of time to keep your loved ones safe and secure. Get in touch with 1st Choice Hurricane Protection today for installation and repair of shutters, impact doors, and impact windows in Fort Myers, FL. Our expert team provides top-notch services to make sure your home is ready for whatever this hurricane season brings.

Impact Windows and Home Security: How They Help Deter Break-Ins

SEO Vectra on July 20, 2025

When people think of installing impact windows, they usually consider the comprehensive protection these windows offer from hurricanes. While it is true that these windows help protect your home from the strong hurricane-force winds and flying projectiles, they also offer various other benefits. Let us understand how impact windows can better protect your family from harsh hurricanes and deter intruders.

What Makes Impact Windows So Secure?

Impact windows are made with durable and shatter-resistant laminated glass. This glass is built to withstand the strong winds brought by hurricanes. So, even if someone tries to break the window with a hammer or any other heavy object, it won’t easily break. Even if the glass cracks, it will not shatter like standard glass windows do. These windows have multi-layer shatter-resistant glass that keeps the window intact and firmly bonded to its inner layer.

More Than Just Strength

When anyone sees a home with impact windows, they know that it is well protected. Burglars usually look for the path of least resistance, like standard glass windows. As these windows are tough and time-consuming to break, intruders avoid making home break-in attempts. They know that even if they successfully break the window, it would cause a lot of noise and alert the people living nearby.

So when they see a home with impact windows, they usually don’t make burglary attempts there. The added layer of difficulty and the noise it would cause make them feel that the break-in attempt is not worth the risk of getting caught. Thus, by installing impact windows, homeowners can deter intruders and be worry-free that their home is well protected.

Year-Round Benefits

Other than improving your home’s security, impact windows also offer various other year-round benefits such as:

Hurricane Protection – They protect your home throughout the year from strong storms and hurricanes.

Noise Reduction – The thick glass and secure seal help reduce outdoor noise and make your indoor space quieter.

Energy Efficiency – They prevent the indoor air from escaping outside and the outdoor air from entering your home. Thus keeping your home cooler in the summer and warmer in the winter and reducing your energy bills.

UV Protection – They prevent the harsh UV rays from entering your home, keeping your furniture, flooring and other belongings from fading due to sunlight.

By installing these windows, you don’t just upgrade your home’s security, but also the overall comfort and value.

Professional Installation Matters

To get the full benefits of impact windows, it is important to get them installed properly by an experienced professional. Reach out to 1st Choice Hurricane Protection for the installation of robust impact windows in Fort Myers, FL. Our skilled team would be happy to help you select the right style for your home so you can keep it protected from intruders as well as Mother Nature’s fury. Call us today to learn more about how our products and services can boost your home’s security.

The Outdoor Living Upgrade You Didn’t Know You Needed: Motorized Roll-Down Screens

SEO Vectra on June 19, 2025

Upgrading your outdoor living space doesn’t have to be too expensive; however, when most people think about upgrading, they think only of the fancy stuff like getting a high-end grill, installing a swimming pool, or getting new patio furniture. In their long list of upgrades, there is usually no mention of motorized roll-down screens, which are a great way to transform the way you enjoy your outdoor areas. Let’s take a closer look at why motorized roll-down screens could be the outdoor living solution you didn’t know you needed.

Convenience at the Push of a Button

Motorized roll-down screens offer various benefits. One such benefit is how easy they are to deploy. Simply by pushing a button, you can lower or raise the screens. Whether you want to block out the harsh UV rays, keep bugs away, or enjoy the full outdoor view, these screens give you complete control to adjust your surroundings the way you want to. With them, you don’t need to wrestle to lower or raise the screens, so even if the weather takes a turn suddenly, you can conveniently operate the screens by just pushing a button.

Protection From the Elements

The weather can change in the blink of an eye. One moment it might be sunny and the next you may be dealing with strong winds and heavy rains. Motorized roll-down screens act as a reliable barrier against these elements, enabling you to enjoy the outdoor space irrespective of what the weather is like. They help block the harsh UV rays, keep the rain and wind out, and even make your patio much cooler and comfortable.

Keep Bugs at Bay

Mosquitoes and bugs can ruin a peaceful evening outdoors. Although traditional screens help in creating a barrier, they aren’t always suitable for all outdoor spaces. Motorized roll-down screens, on the other hand, are very versatile and can help fully enclose an area. They can keep out bugs, allowing you to enjoy your time outdoors.

Energy Efficiency

Other than offering the benefits above, these screens also help lower the energy bills. They block out the intense UV rays, reducing the strain on your HVAC system. With less heat entering your home, your HVAC system does not have to work as hard to keep the indoor temperature cool. Thus, these screens are a smart investment that can help you make energy savings.

Easy Maintenance

These outdoor screens are made from durable materials that can withstand the harsh outdoor weather. Their maintenance is also very simple and by cleaning and inspecting them periodically, you can make sure everything is working smoothly and properly. With professional installation and minimal care, you can keep your home safe all year round.
Contact 1st Choice Hurricane Protection today to get high-quality motorized roll-down screens that can upgrade your outdoor living experience. Visit our website to learn more about our wide range of products like impact doors and impact windows in Fort Myers, FL and how they can boost your home’s safety.

Hurricane-Resistant Windows: Enhancing Energy Efficiency and Boosting Home Value

SEO Vectra on March 24, 2025

When people hear the word hurricane-resistant windows, the first thing that usually comes to mind is the protection these windows offer from harsh storms and flying debris. While that is the main reason these windows are designed they can do much more than just keep you safe during a hurricane. Let’s explore how they improve energy efficiency, increase home value, and are a smart investment for homeowners.

More Than Just Storm Protection

Hurricane-resistant windows are primarily built to withstand the harsh weather conditions brought on by storms. They are made from impact-resistant glass and robust frames, which prevent them from shattering like regular windows upon impact from debris.

By installing them, you no longer need to struggle with deploying shutters before a storm, as these windows will keep you protected irrespective of whether the sky is clear or cloudy. They offer year-round benefits that go beyond just storm protection, making them a practical upgrade for any home.

Energy Efficiency

Another benefit of hurricane-resistant windows is their ability to improve energy efficiency. These windows are made from high-quality materials that provide excellent insulation. During hot summer months, they help keep the cool indoor air inside, reducing the pressure on your HVAC system. In cool winter months, they prevent the warm air from escaping, helping maintain a comfortable indoor environment without overworking your heating system.

This improved energy efficiency helps reduce energy consumption, leading to lower energy bills. Many of these windows also have special coatings that block UV rays, thus helping keep your home cooler while preventing your indoor belongings from fading due to sun exposure.

Boosting Home Value

Installing hurricane-resistant windows is a great way to increase your home’s value. Prospective buyers find properties equipped with impact-resistant windows to be much more appealing. These windows don’t just improve the safety of your home but also its energy efficiency, which are the two features that buyers actively look for.

Other than attracting buyers, these windows also help reduce your homeowners’ insurance premiums. Many insurance companies offer discounts for homes that are equipped with storm protection features like impact windows and doors. So while installing them involves an upfront cost, the potential savings you may make on insurance makes them a smart investment.

Benefits Beyond Hurricane Protection

Even if you live in an area that is rarely hit by storms and hurricanes, you can still consider getting hurricane-resistant windows. Other than storm protection, these windows offer benefits like reducing outside noise and making your home more peaceful, especially if you live in a noisy neighborhood or near a busy market.

Another benefit they offer is added security. As these windows are designed to resist strong impacts, they are much harder to break as compared to standard windows. They provide an added layer of protection against break-ins, allowing homeowners to be worry-free.

Boost your home’s value and make it more energy-efficient and secure by installing hurricane shutters in Cape Coral, FL. Reach out to 1st Choice Hurricane Protection for help in choosing windows. Our skilled team is here to assist you in making the right choice for your home so you can be worry-free all year round

Why Hurricane Impact Windows are a Must-Have for Florida Homeowners

SEO Vectra on December 20, 2024

Living in Florida offers beautiful scenic beaches, bright sunny days and a relaxed lifestyle, but it also comes with the risk of hurricanes. Each year, Florida residents need to prepare themselves for hurricane season, a period that brings harsh storms, strong winds and the potential for severe property damage.

One of the best ways to keep your home protected from these intense weather conditions is by installing hurricane-impact windows. These windows not only help safeguard your property but also offer a range of benefits that make them an excellent investment for any Florida homeowner.

1. Protection Against Storm Damage

Hurricane impact windows are specifically built to withstand extreme weather conditions. They are made from two layers of laminated glass with a durable inner layer that holds the glass in place, even if it shatters. Regular windows can easily break under pressure but impact windows can endure wind speeds of up to 200 miles per hour, helping prevent debris from entering your home. This helps prevent glass from shattering and dangerous flying debris entering indoors, giving you and your family a much safer environment during a storm.

2. Year-Round Security

Hurricane impact windows provide protection not only during hurricane season but all year long. As these windows are highly durable, they also help prevent intruders from breaking into your home. The strength of impact windows deters burglars, as they are much harder to break than standard glass windows. With impact windows, you are investing in both storm protection and an added layer of security for your home.

3. Energy Efficiency

The warm climate in Florida often requires air-conditioning which results in higher energy bills. However, installing impact windows can help reduce your energy bills. These windows provide an extra layer of insulation, reducing heat transfer and helping to keep your home cooler in the summer. This added insulation allows your HVAC system to work more efficiently, which can lead to considerable savings on your energy bills over time. Many homeowners find that their impact windows pay for themselves in the long run through lower utility costs.

4. Noise Reduction

If you reside in a busy neighborhood or near a main road, noise can be a constant disturbance. Hurricane impact windows are built with thick, laminated glass that not only withstands strong winds but also blocks out much of the external noise. This added noise reduction helps create a quieter, more peaceful living environment, so you can enjoy your home without the constant background noise from the outside world.

5. Insurance Benefits

These days many insurance providers offer extra discounts to homeowners with hurricane impact windows, as these windows reduce the chances of costly damage claims. By installing impact windows, you are showing your insurance company that you have taken steps to protect your property from storm damage, which can lead to lower insurance premiums. In this way hurricane impact windows can save you money over time, making them a smart financial choice.

6. Increased Home Value

Installing hurricane impact windows is also an investment that can increase your home’s resale value. People in Florida understand the risks associated with storms and impact windows are a desirable feature that adds appeal to a property. Potential buyers appreciate knowing that the home has been upgraded for protection against hurricanes, which can give you an edge in the competitive real estate market.

Contact 1st Choice Hurricane Protection for the installation of impact windows in Fort Myers FL. We specialize in high-quality hurricane impact windows that can keep your family safe, reduce your energy costs and add long-term value to your property. Get in touch with us so our skilled team can help you choose the best hurricane protection solutions for your home.

The Benefits of Installing Energy-Efficient Windows in Your Home

SEO Vectra on November 22, 2024

When thinking about home improvements, energy-efficient impact windows might not be the first thing that comes to your mind. However, by upgrading your windows you can see a considerable improvement in your environment, elevate your home’s comfort and reduce energy costs. Let’s understand the benefits of installing energy-efficient impact windows in Bonita Springs, Naples and Marco Island, FL and explore how it is a smart and sustainable choice for your home.

Lower Energy Bills

One of the key benefits of energy-efficient impact windows is that they help reduce your energy bills. These windows are designed with better insulation, so they prevent indoor air from leaking out during the winter and don’t allow heat to enter your house during the summer. They lower the pressure on your home’s HVAC system so that it doesn’t have to work as hard to maintain a comfortable indoor temperature, leading to lower utility costs. Over time, the savings you get from these windows can add up.

Improved Comfort

Have you ever felt drafts near your windows or noticed that some rooms in your house are too hot or cold? This can happen with older windows that don’t fit properly and fail to provide enough insulation. 1st Choice’s energy-efficient impact windows help maintain a stable temperature inside your home, eliminating uncomfortable drafts and too much temperature difference in different rooms. These windows also effectively block harmful UV rays, so your furniture, carpets and flooring stay better protected and don’t fade easily.

Environmental Benefits

As impact windows reduce your energy use, they not only help you make considerable savings but are also good for the environment. Lower energy consumption means fewer carbon emissions, helping you reduce your carbon footprint. With this small step, you can lead a more sustainable lifestyle. These days many impact windows are made from eco-friendly materials, which adds to their positive environmental impact.

Noise Reduction

If you live near a busy market or in a noisy neighborhood, installing energy-efficient impact windows can help reduce the amount of outside noise that enters your home. The improved insulation provided by these windows not only keeps the temperature stable but also helps to create a quieter, more peaceful environment inside your home. By installing these windows you can prevent outside noise from entering your home and relax better after a long, busy day.

Increased Home Value

These windows are an excellent investment, especially if you are considering to sell your house in the future. Potential buyers typically prefer homes with energy-saving features and upgraded windows can make your home more attractive on the market. Plus, as homes with energy-efficient impact windows often sell for a higher price, these windows can add to the value of your investment.

Hurricane Protection

Choosing energy-efficient impact windows from 1st Choice Hurricane Protection provides many safety benefits, particularly in hurricane-prone areas. These robust windows are designed to withstand harsh winds and flying debris, safeguarding your home during severe weather events. By installing impact-resistant windows and doors, you not only protect your property but also improve its resilience against nature’s most destructive forces, helping you gain confidence that you and your family are safe.

Durability and Low Maintenance

1st Choice Hurricane Protection’s high-impact windows are durable and built to last. They are made from high-quality materials that can withstand severe weather conditions including hurricanes and storms. These windows usually come with special coatings that make them easier to clean and maintain. As these windows are low maintenance you will have to spend hardly any time and effort on their upkeep.
Enjoy a more comfortable and quieter home, by installing high-quality impact windows in Bonita Springs, Naples and Marco Island, FL from 1st Choice Hurricane Protection. You can improve the safety and comfort of your home with our top-notch offerings like custom entry doors, sliding glass doors and other storm protection solutions. Contact us today to explore our wide range of high-quality offerings, including ES Doors and Windows to ensure your home is equipped with the best protection.

Signs That Your Home Windows Are Due for Replacement

SEO Vectra on July 30, 2024

When was the last time that you took a good look at your home’s windows? While we don’t often pay attention to them, windows play a major role in our lives by providing natural light and fresh air and improving the aesthetics of our homes. Just like any other thing, windows don’t last forever. Here are some signs that can indicate that your home windows are due for replacement.

Drafts and Poor Insulation

An obvious sign that your windows need to be replaced is feeling drafts even when they are closed. If you notice that there is a considerable difference in temperature near your windows and the rest of the room, then it’s possible that your windows aren’t insulating properly. This can put more pressure on your home’s HVAC system to maintain a comfortable temperature and lead to higher energy bills.

Difficulty in Operation

Opening and closing windows should be a smooth and easy process. If you struggle to operate them then they may be too worn out. Windows that don’t open smoothly or slide back down when left open, can cause injuries. They can also pose a major safety risk, especially during emergencies where exiting quickly is essential.

Visible Damage or Decay

Look at your window frames carefully and check for signs of damage such as water seepage, soft or decaying wood and bent frames. If you notice any of these signs then it’s time to get new windows installed, as these signs can indicate moisture problems that could cause substantial damage to your property if not addressed quickly.

Condensation Between Glass Panes

Condensation on the inside or outside of your windows is normal when there is a big difference in temperature indoors and outdoors. However, if there is condensation or fogging between two layers of the window pane then it could indicate a broken seal. This can lead to poor insulation, water seepage during rainy days and higher energy bills.

Increased Noise Levels

If you live in a crowded or noisy area and your windows don’t help much in keeping the traffic sounds out then it might indicate that they are too old and need to be replaced. Windows these days are designed to look not only more stylish but also to provide better sound insulation. They help ensure that your home remains a quiet haven where you can relax in peace.

Faded Furnishings

Have you noticed your curtains, furniture, or carpet fading? This might be due to your windows being old. Older windows can allow strong UV rays to pass through, causing your belongings and furnishings to lose their color and become faded over time. Modern windows are equipped with special coatings that help block these UV rays and protect your furniture and other belongings from sun damage.

Moisture and Mold Issues

Windows that leak during monsoons and allow water to seep in can create a breeding ground for mold and mildew. This can lead to serious respiratory problems and various other health issues. So it’s important to get rid of the mold around your windows and prevent it from coming back in the future by replacing the old windows with new ones.

Don’t let outdated windows harm the well-being of you and your family. Upgrade your windows to improve the comfort of your home and boost its energy efficiency and overall value. Trust 1st Choice Hurricane Protection for installation of quality impact windows in Fort Myers, FL. Visit our website to explore our diverse collection of impact windows and doors that provide thorough protection during hurricanes and can help elevate the aesthetics of your home.

Give us a call at 239-325-3400 and let our friendly and knowledgeable staff help you with your project today!