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The average cost of hurricane-impact windows for an entire home is $1,908 to $10,707, with a national average of $5,332. If you live on the coast, it’s important to protect your home from hurricanes. Replacing your existing windows with hurricane-proof windows, also called hurricane-impact windows, is a great starting point. Here’s what you need to know before making the investment.
*Cost figures are based on prices from The Home Depot and Window Price Guides.
What Are Hurricane Windows?
Hurricane-proof windows use reinforced frames and impact-resistant glass treated with a layer of polyvinyl butyral (PVB) or ethylene-vinyl acetate (EVA). These windows can withstand winds up to 200 miles per hour and other elements of a Category 5 storm. They’re designed not to shatter upon impact, helping to preserve your home’s interior and keep you and your loved ones safe during severe weather.
The Cost of Hurricane Windows
The average cost of hurricane-impact windows for an entire home is $1,908 to $10,707, with a national average of $5,332. The average price for each individual hurricane window ranges from $100 to $500, including installation. The window’s size, material, and customization all influence this price range.
Cost by Size
Window size impacts the cost of any replacement window. Here are the average prices for hurricane windows based on size.
| Size | Price |
|---|---|
|
24″x30″ |
$120 |
|
32″x36″ |
$130 |
|
48″x44″ |
$175 |
|
52″x44″ |
$200 |
|
52″x60″ |
$225 |
|
60″x60″ |
$250 |
|
60″x96″ |
$350 |
Cost by Material
Like standard windows, hurricane windows come in wood, vinyl, and aluminum frames. Below is a breakdown of the typical price for each window frame material, as well as its benefits and drawbacks.
- Aluminum hurricane windows ($90 to $275): Aluminum hurricane windows are the strongest option and have an average life span of up to 45 years. Aluminum frames are also the most cost-effective, ranging from $90 to $275 per window. They’re low-maintenance and easy to clean, but they don’t insulate as well as other frame materials, so you won’t see a reduction in energy costs.
- Vinyl hurricane windows ($100 to $300): Vinyl windows last between 20 and 40 years with proper maintenance. They’re low-maintenance and insulate better than aluminum, but come in fewer style and color options.
- Wood hurricane windows ($175 to $400): Wood frames offer a natural look and excellent insulation. They require more maintenance than aluminum and vinyl frames because you’ll need to strip, sand, and repaint them every few years, but they can last as long as 30 years when properly maintained. We don’t recommend wood hurricane windows for homes in locations where the temperature frequently changes because wood expands in hot weather and contracts in cold weather, causing potential damage.
Factors Affecting Cost
Various other factors affect the price of hurricane windows, including the brand, glass type, labor fees, and more.
Brand
Well-known or premium brands often charge more for their windows. Some brands, such as Pella, back their windows with comprehensive warranties, additional security features, and high-quality materials. Though these features cost more, they’re often worth it.
Extra Features
Weatherstripping and window film can significantly improve a window’s ability to resist damage. These features vary by window line and brand. Features that add durability—such as stabilizer bars, double-pane glass, or energy-efficiency features like low-emissivity (low-e) glass—will increase your price.
Glass Type
Just like other window types, hurricane windows come with different glass options. Each glass type has a different price and benefits.
- Plexiglass ($100–$230): Plexiglass is a flexible plastic. This material is cost-effective, light, easy to work with, and usually stronger than glass, but it can scratch easily and turn yellow over time.
- Standard glass ($150–$300): This is the most popular glass type for hurricane windows. Standard window glass isn’t treated, altered, or tinted. It provides a clear, clean appearance that doesn’t affect your existing windows’ aesthetic appeal.
- Acrylic ($200–$250): Acrylic window panes are flexible, light, and usually stronger than standard glass panes.
- Tempered glass ($200–$400): Tempered glass is often used in locations at high risk for powerful storms. Sometimes called toughened glass, tempered glass goes through a chemical or thermal process to increase its strength and durability.
Labor
Labor costs depend on window size and location, but typically range from $80 to $400 per window. Some companies may offer discounts if you’re installing multiple windows.
Location
Installation costs can vary depending on where your windows are located in your home. Windows on the second floor or higher take twice as long to install, increasing labor prices.
Permits
Permit requirements and costs vary by state, county, and city but typically range from $50 to $200 for windows installation. A professional window installer will usually acquire the necessary permits for your project, but homeowners should always double check to ensure everything is up to local building codes.
Hurricane Windows vs. Impact Windows
Hurricane windows and storm windows are also different products. Storm windows are installed over your existing windows to add insulation, energy efficiency, and noise reduction. They also protect against high winds, but they’re not impact-resistant and are less protective than hurricane windows.
How to Reduce Costs on Hurricane Window Installation
Though hurricane windows cost more than standard windows, they’re often a necessary investment for coastal homeowners. Here are some tips if you’d prefer to save money.
- Check your insurance: Hurricane windows can drastically influence the price of your homeowner’s insurance. Check if your policy offers a discount for hurricane windows.
- Get multiple quotes: You should get multiple quotes from local window installers to ensure you get the best deal. Use the quotes to negotiate with your desired brand.
- Look into tax credits: The Bipartisan Budget Act of 2018 lets homeowners claim a tax credit of up to $200 per window for installing hurricane windows.
- Order in the off-season: We recommend installing new windows before hurricane season (between June and November). Window installers often offer discounts when they’re less busy.
Our Recommendation
Whether you live in Florida, North Carolina, or another hurricane-prone area, we recommend installing hurricane windows. Not every brand offers these windows, and quality can vary. We recommend buying from reputable brands such as Pella.
Hurricane window installation is not an easy do-it-yourself (DIY) home improvement project, so we recommend hiring a professional. Get quotes from at least three licensed local window installers to compare pricing and services. Use our tool below to find window installers that service your address.
Hurricane Window Cost FAQ
Are hurricane windows worth the money?
Yes, hurricane windows are worth the money if your home is in a region that experiences intense storms. In fact, hurricane windows can save you money over time by preventing damage. They can also reduce your insurance costs, as some providers offer discounts on your homeowners‘ insurance premiums for adding hurricane protection.
What are the negatives of hurricane windows?
The only downside of hurricane windows is their high up-front cost. Other than that, they offer durability, security, and noise reduction in similar window styles and materials as standard replacement windows.
Do I need hurricane shutters if I have hurricane windows?
No, you don’t need hurricane shutters if you have hurricane windows. Hurricane windows protect your home and family from hurricane damage, so shutters aren’t necessary. However, you may still want to install hurricane shutters over your hurricane windows if they match your home’s style.