The 30-Second Verdict
PGT wins for Florida-specific hurricane impact windows — it's a Florida-born brand with the deepest Miami-Dade NOA product library and the widest FL installer network. Andersen wins on wood-look and premium aesthetic for non-impact replacement windows. For hurricane protection, PGT is the clear choice.
Head-to-Head Breakdown
Andersen Windows
Pros
- Premium wood-interior and wood-look options not available from PGT
- Strong brand recognition — adds perceived value in non-hurricane markets
- Wide range of aesthetic styles for historic or luxury homes
- Excellent energy efficiency ratings on premium lines
- Strong nationwide warranty and service network
Cons
- Not primarily designed for Florida's hurricane impact market
- Fewer Miami-Dade NOA approvals vs. PGT for HVHZ applications
- Higher cost for equivalent hurricane-rated performance vs. PGT
- Less Florida installer network depth
PGT Innovations
Pros
- Founded in Florida specifically for hurricane protection — deepest HVHZ product library
- Widest Miami-Dade NOA product approval portfolio of any window brand
- Most Florida window/door contractors are certified PGT installers
- WinGuard series is the benchmark for Florida impact window performance
- Competitive pricing for impact performance vs. national brands
Cons
- Aesthetic options are narrower than Andersen on wood-look and specialty profiles
- Less national brand recognition outside hurricane states
- Premium impact products still carry significant cost ($800-$1,500+ per window installed)
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Andersen Windows | PGT Innovations | |
|---|---|---|
| Florida impact specialization | Secondary market | Primary market — Florida-founded |
| Miami-Dade NOA approvals | Limited | Industry-leading portfolio |
| HVHZ approval | Select products only | Full WinGuard line |
| Wood-interior options | Yes — premium offering | Limited |
| Warranty | 20-year glass, 10-year non-glass | Limited lifetime on WinGuard |
| FL installer network | Moderate | Very deep — most FL contractors |
| Typical installed cost | $900-$1,800/window | $750-$1,500/window |
| Best for | Premium aesthetics, non-impact | Hurricane protection, FL-specific |
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need Miami-Dade NOA approval for my windows?
If your home is in Miami-Dade or Broward County's High-Velocity Hurricane Zone (HVHZ), yes — all replacement windows and doors must carry a Miami-Dade Notice of Acceptance (NOA). Outside HVHZ, Florida Product Approval (FPA) is required. PGT's WinGuard line carries both. Always verify the specific product approval before installation.
How much do impact windows save on homeowners insurance in Florida?
Florida insurers are required to offer wind mitigation discounts for verified impact windows and doors. Typical savings run $300-$1,500 per year depending on the insurer and home. A wind mitigation inspection ($75-$150) documents the installation and is required to claim the discount. Most impact window projects recoup insurance savings within 7-12 years.