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Impact windows are a type of window made with impact-resistant glass, designed specifically for hurricanes. The glass, treated with ethylene-vinyl, can withstand winds up to 200 mph, as well as flying debris. Brands sometimes test their impact windows with large missile impact tests.

Impact windows may be required in some places. For instance, the Florida Building Code requires homes to have impact-resistant windows if they live within a mile of the coast where wind speeds can reach 110 mph or more.

Yes, it is generally better and more cost-effective to replace all your windows at once. Contractors often lower the per-window labor and material costs for larger projects, saving you money in the long run. Installers may also quote a flat rate for overhead, making multiple small jobs more expensive than one large one.

Replacing all windows simultaneously offers other advantages:

• Aesthetics and Home Value: It creates a cohesive style and uniform energy efficiency, which is appealing to potential home buyers.

• Efficiency: The entire replacement process, which can take several weeks, is completed in a single, more efficient project.

However, replacing all windows requires a significant upfront investment. While you can replace just a few windows, experts recommend replacing at least five to eight at a time to avoid high overhead costs. An exception is when a single window is damaged; in that case, it can be replaced on its own.

Adding windows to a house is expensive. Budget roughly $5,800 to add a single window, and double or triple that to add two or three. In some cases, adding a single window can exceed $20,000, depending on the type of exterior wall, the size of the window, the type of window, local permit costs, and other factors.

There are several downsides to choosing casement windows for your home. Firstly, casement windows can cost significantly more than standard windows—especially if you need to install custom windows. If you plan on installing window AC units, then casement windows aren’t the best option, as it can be difficult to fit an AC unit into windows that open sideways or outwards. 

The hinges on casement windows also pose a higher risk for break-ins, as rust and wear and tear can make the hardware easier for burglars to break into.