Frequently Asked Questions
We've taken the questions we most often hear from homeowners like you and had our engineers and experts answer them—to help you learn more about windows and doors. The questions below have been organized into categories for your convenience. Click on any of the questions below to view its answer.
QUESTIONS REGARDING HURRICANE WINDOWS
- Do I need hurricane windows that meet Miami-Dade/Broward County code requirements?
- Do Gorell windows meet the energy codes?
- Do Gorell hurricane windows meet the impact code requirements?
- Do vinyl hurricane windows operate as easily as standard replacement windows?
- Do I need shutters in addition to hurricane windows?
- Do Gorell hurricane windows qualify for the federal energy tax credit?
- Are hurricane windows and storm shutters comparable products?
- How much of Gorell’s impact windows are actually vinyl?
- Are impact windows available with any options?
- How do various hurricane windows differ?
Do I need hurricane windows that meet Miami-Dade/Broward County code requirements?
Only the actual Miami area and south through Key West require Miami-Dade certification. Please contact your local Gorell dealer to determine the code requirements for your specific location.
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Do Gorell windows meet the energy codes?
Yes, both AIP and Armor Max Plus windows meet the International Building Code requirements. All AIP and Armor Max Plus products qualify for the ENERGY STAR label. Many, if not most, hurricane products do not meet the IBC energy requirements. Don’t forfeit hurricane protection for energy efficiency—get both in one package.
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Do Gorell hurricane windows meet the impact code requirements?
Yes. Gorell Armor Max Plus windows are rated for “D” Level use—right up to use on the coast. Armor Impact Plus windows are rated for “C” Level for use inland and in states other than Florida.
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Do vinyl hurricane windows operate as easily as standard replacement windows?
Some manufacturers modified their existing windows, such as adding larger, beefier latches and braces to help pass impact testing. This makes operation more difficult and results in an ugly product. However, windows specifically designed for impact protection—such as Gorell’s Armor Max Plus products—are as easy to operate as standard replacement windows.
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Do I need shutters in addition to hurricane windows?
No. Windows that are tested and approved for “D” or “C” Level hurricane protection are all you need. These products provide protection that’s as good as—or better than—storm shutters.
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Do Gorell hurricane windows qualify for the federal energy tax credit?
Yes, all Gorell impact windows qualify for the ENERGY STAR label, which means that they also qualify for the energy tax credit in 2007.
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Are hurricane windows and storm shutters comparable products?
In terms of protection, the products are comparable. However, windows are safer and more convenient because they are a “silent sentinel”—meaning you do not need to do anything with them. In the event of violent weather, you can evacuate your home immediately, and your windows will protect your valuables. Shutters require time and a lot of effort to be put up and then taken down at each threat of an approaching storm.
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How much of Gorell’s impact windows are actually vinyl?
The frames of Armor Impact Max (AIP) and Armor Max Plus windows are 100 percent Gorell’s proprietary vinyl compound.
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Are impact windows available with any options?
Absolutely! Hurricane windows can be ordered in a variety of colors, with grids, easy-to-clean glass options and more.
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How do various hurricane windows differ?
There are many variations of hurricanes windows. Most are metal, which have passed impact testing but typically do not perform well in the areas of energy efficiency and maintenance. There are some other vinyl hurricane windows on the market that are simply standard residential products that have been heavily patched up to pass impact testing. Because the windows were not originally designed for storm protection, it’s difficult to know how they will stand the test of time. Also, added modifications typically affect the appearance of these windows.
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