The national average per hurricane window is $2,468. You can expect to spend at least $696 per window on the low end, while the high end can cost around $9,170 per window. Because of their complex construction meant to add incredible durability to your home when a high-wind storm hits, the materials and size of the window are going to be the factors that alter your price considerably on top of the quantity you order. However, because of their high-quality hurricane protection, you might find that the investment is worth it for peace of mind during severe weather.
Let's take a closer look at hurricane windows and determine whether they're right for your home.
Hurricane window cost
National average cost | $2,468 |
Average cost range | $1,777–$6,466 |
Low-end cost | $696 |
High-end cost | $9,170 |
Key takeaways
Hurricane windows protect your home from high winds but are not the same as impact or storm windows. Hurricane windows, though still impact-resistant, are stronger and more durable to withstand extreme winds from hurricanes or other strong storms.
Hurricane windows are engineered with multiple layers of glass and a polymer layer in between that remains intact if the glass layers were to break.
Size and material are the biggest factors in determining the cost of your project.
What are hurricane windows, and do you need them?
Image source: Pella
As the name suggests, hurricane windows are strong windows meant to withstand the brutal forces of high winds from hurricanes, tornadoes, and tropical storms. Contrary to popular belief, hurricane windows, not to be confused with hurricane shutters, are not the same as impact windows. Both are very similar in protecting your home from the impact of flying debris, but hurricane windows are constructed to withstand more force that comes from hurricane winds while also meeting specific building codes. If you live in a coastal state like Florida, hurricane windows can be a wise investment to add durability to your home when a storm arises. Unlike storm windows that are used with existing windows, hurricane windows are their own entity.
Hurricane windows undergo specific construction and testing to make them suitable for high-wind storms. Their engineering consists of several layers to increase durability, closely resembling the glasswork on your vehicle. Hurricane windows have a polymer layer between their multiple laminated glass layers for extra protection that keeps them sturdy during a storm.
Are hurricane windows worth it?
Hurricane windows are greatly beneficial for homes located in high-wind storm areas. Not only are these windows excellent in protecting your home from high winds, but they’re also great at making your home more energy efficient since they have tighter seals and insulation than standard windows. Without them, your home might be susceptible to expensive damage from storm winds or higher energy bills.
Are you still on the fence about investing in a set of hurricane windows? Here are some factors to consider while you weigh your options:
Your environment: If you live in a coastal or tornado-prone area, you may benefit from the strength these windows provide during a high-wind storm.
Insurance costs: Some insurance companies may lower your coverage costs since hurricane windows reduce the risk of property damage.
Home value: Are you planning on selling your home in the near future? This home improvement upgrade can increase your home’s value by 10% to 40%, especially if you live in a coastal town.
Energy efficiency: Because of their tight seals and insulation, hurricane windows can increase the energy efficiency of your home by 10% to 30% and reduce energy bills.
Noise reduction: Hurricane windows are constructed with multiple layers, which cancel out more noise than standard windows.
Factors that affect hurricane window prices
Several factors affect hurricane window costs from the size, frame, glass type, and others, including:
Quantity
Brand
Window location
Permits
Size of each window
The size of your hurricane windows is one of the biggest factors in the price. After all, the larger the window, the more material is needed, which results in more money spent. Below is a chart displaying the average cost of typical hurricane window sizes:
Window size | Hurricane window cost (per window, labor included) |
24″x30″ | $80–$146 |
32″x36″ | $97–$177 |
48″x44″ | $134–$245 |
52″x44″ | $143–$260 |
52″x60″ | $162–$295 |
60″x60″ | $182–$332 |
60″x96″ | $247–$450 |
Cost of hurricane-proof windows by frame material
In addition to size, window frame material is another factor that can majorly affect the price of your windows. The frame is responsible for keeping the glass in place during a severe storm, so the more durable the material you choose, the higher the cost will be.
Frame material | Lifespan of material | Hurricane window cost (per window, labor included) |
Aluminum or steel | Up to 45 years | $133–$242 |
Vinyl | 20-40 years | $144–$262 |
Wood | 10-30 years | $207—$377 |
Quantity
The number of windows you order can increase the overall cost.
Brand
Brands like Pella and Windows by Andersen are important to consider when setting a budget for hurricane windows. Top-rated brands with customizable features will cost more per window than other brands that offer standard windows with less customization.
Window location
If you’re not installing the windows yourself, the location of your windows can increase the price of your project. Installing hurricane windows on a top floor or higher is more complex and risky than only installing windows on a bottom floor. Because of this, labor costs will increase in time spent, complexity, and risk.
Permits
Sometimes, permits are required to replace and install new hurricane windows to ensure compliance with building codes. Permits can cost up to $100 or more.
Additional features
Some window brands offer additional features like custom colors and designs, weather stripping, and more. While these additional features can make your windows and home look pretty, they will also increase your total cost.
Labor cost to install hurricane windows
Labor costs can be high for installing new hurricane windows and replacements. Because of their added durability, intricate construction, and complexity, you’re looking at $134 to $244 for new installation or $168 to $306 for window replacement.
How to save money on hurricane windows
Compare quotes: Before selecting a dealer, gather quotes from multiple window companies or manufacturers to choose the best price for your budget and needs.
Do it in the off-season: Sometimes dealers will run specials during the off-season that reduce the cost of the windows. Winter is the best time to check for off-season deals since most companies do not have much business in the colder months.
Lower insurance premiums: If you live in a coastal area or other high-wind storm town, you might be eligible for a 45% reduction in your insurance costs from installing hurricane windows since they lower the risk of property damage.
Apply for tax credits: Because hurricane windows are energy efficient, some homeowners are eligible for tax credits after having them installed. Check to see if your home applies, and if so, you can be eligible for up to $600 max for windows in tax credit savings.
Consider interior storm windows: If hurricane windows are out of your budget but you still need an extra layer of protection, consider interior storm windows. These windows will still provide your home with durability and energy efficiency savings for a fraction of the cost.
Forego customization: While beautiful, customized windows elevate the detail of your curb appeal, they will also elevate your costs. Consider forgetting customization and going with a standard window to reduce the costs associated with your project.
Hurricane windows: the bottom line
Though pricey, hurricane windows can be an incredible investment for homeowners who live in coastal towns or states prone to tornadoes. Because of their multilayer construction, hurricane windows are highly durable. With their ultra-tight seal, they can protect from damage from high-wind storms while increasing your home's energy efficiency. There are also several monetary benefits to installing hurricane windows, such as discounts on insurance premiums or tax credits.
Frequently asked questions
Hurricane impact windows cost an average of $2,468. Several factors determine the exact price of these windows, such as the size, how many windows you order, glass, brand, and more. Labor costs are also factored in, which may increase the final cost.
Hurricane windows are worth the money if you live in a coastal environment prone to several high-wind storms yearly. These windows protect your home from costly damage while improving the energy efficiency of your home by 20%. They can also decrease your insurance premium by 45%.
The average price range of windows in Florida is between $2,750 and $4,000. Florida building codes change routinely (nearly every three years) to update safety standards for hurricanes, so homeowners are to replace their windows to adhere to codes and increase their home’s safety for possible storms.
The average lifespan of hurricane windows ranges from 10 to 40 years. However, several factors alter this lifespan range. Hurricane windows are built with powerful materials to increase their longevity, but that doesn’t mean they are indestructible. The fewer storms they encounter and staying on top of routine maintenance help your hurricane windows stay functional for years to come.