Picture Windows in Florida? Plus Pros and Cons

There is no better way to enjoy breathtaking views than through large picture windows. These large, fixed windows also create a stunning design element both inside and outside your home. And modern picture windows offer high performance in terms of storm protection, energy efficiency, and air/water barrier. But is it a good idea to add large panes of glass in an area prone to hurricanes? In this article we discuss the use of picture windows in Florida plus give some pros and cons.

What Are Picture Windows?

Picture windows are large, single-pane, fixed windows. In other words, they do not open. They are exceptional at providing you with clear, unobstructed views, especially when the windows do not have window grids. You will see them in both homes as well as commercial offices and residential buildings, such as condos.

As mentioned above, they are fixed windows that do not open. This makes them different from most other windows. You should note that if you want windows that open you will need to pair them with another type of window that does open.

Picture windows are a great choice if you want to fill your space with a ton of natural light. They will allow you and your guests to enjoy clear, unobstructed views, giving your space those “amazing views” everyone talks about. Even if your home does not have an ocean or city view you can enjoy views of your backyard, pool, or patio. They area also a perfect fit if your design calls for filling your interior space with large windows.

Fixed Window Options

• Available in both aluminum and vinyl frames
• Come in multiple color options to meet your property’s design
• Can be used as both new construction and replacement windows

Are Picture Windows a Good Fit for Florida?

Adding large panes of glass to your home may seem silly if you live in Florida. The sunshine state is prone to hurricanes. And strong, hurricane force winds and flying debris are usually a bad mix with large panes of standard window glass.

But the good news is that you have options that are very suitable for hurricane season. First, you can buy picture windows made with impact glass. Or, you can buy picture windows with tempered glass and install hurricane protection over them, such as hurricane shutters. Both of these options mean your home, family, and picture windows will be protected, even in the worst of hurricanes.

In turn, the threat of Florida hurricanes should not scare you away from adding these large, fixed windows to your house.

In addition, these windows are fixed and tightly sealed. This means they will provide great insulation as well as excellent water and air barrier. All of these are helpful for making your home more comfortable and efficient in the extreme Florida weather.

Pros and Cons of Picture Windows

Picture windows offer several benefits, but they also have some considerations. Below we talk about both the pros and cons of these windows.

Benefits of Picture Windows

Some of these benefits include the following:

• Offer clear, unobstructed views, especially for those without window grids
• Provide a ton of natural light into your space, and can convert a dark space into a bright one
• Great curb appeal and design from both the interior and exterior of a property
• Available in a wide range of sizes and shapes, and can be customized to fit into any opening
• Excellent energy efficiency performance reduces HVAC costs and makes your home comfortable
• Fixed, and tight seal creates a high barrier against water and air intrusion
• Tight window seal is also good at reducing noise transmission
• Available in impact glass versions, which can withstand up to a category 5 hurricane
• Approved for use in High Velocity Hurricane Zones (HVHZ)
• Florida Product Approved

Considerations

• Fixed windows that do not open mean a lack of ventilation – if you want windows that open you will need to pair them with another type of window that does
• Tempered glass versions will require hurricane protection, such as hurricane shutters to reduce glass breaking during a hurricane
• Difficulty cleaning if not on the ground floor due to the fact that they do not open up

Picture Windows FAQs

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Our company installs custom impact picture windows throughout Southwest Florida, including Fort Myers, Lehigh Acres, Cape Coral, Naples/Marco Island and more.