HVHZ Impact Windows: A Pompano Buyer’s Design Guide

You want windows that look beautiful and feel effortless, yet can stand up to Pompano’s storm season and pass inspection the first time. In the High‑Velocity Hurricane Zone, design is only half the story. The other half is code, product approvals, and clean paperwork that protects your investment and your insurance. This guide shows you how to choose impact windows that fit your style, meet HVHZ rules, and move smoothly from permit to final inspection. Let’s dive in.

HVHZ in Pompano Beach

Pompano Beach is inside Florida’s High‑Velocity Hurricane Zone. That means any window replacement or new opening requires a building permit, approved products, and inspections through the City of Pompano Beach. You start the process on the city’s permit portal and forms page, including the Retrofit Window & Door Schedule you will submit with your application. You can find the application steps on the city’s permitting page for window projects. Start at the city’s permit portal.

In HVHZ jurisdictions like Broward County, your windows must carry either a Miami‑Dade County Notice of Acceptance or a Florida Product Approval. These approvals document the testing, design pressures, and installation details that plan reviewers and inspectors rely on. You can verify approvals on the Miami‑Dade NOA page and review Florida Product Approval entries in the state database. See a Florida Product Approval example entry.

How impact ratings work

Impact windows for HVHZ must pass specific tests for debris impact and hurricane pressure cycling. Florida approvals commonly reference TAS 201, 202, and 203 or ASTM E1886 and E1996. For a plain‑English overview of these standards, review this summary of impact testing protocols. Learn how impact testing works.

In the large‑missile test, a 9‑pound 2×4 strikes the glazing and frame at speed. After impact, the unit must endure repeated positive and negative pressure cycles that simulate hurricane gusts. Products are approved for specific sizes and design pressures, which is why you need to match your chosen window to the exact opening and exposure at your property. The approval documents list maximum sizes, allowable design pressure ratings, and required anchorage details.

Pompano permit checklist

Use this quick, local workflow to keep your project on track:

• Choose an HVHZ‑approved product with an active Miami‑Dade NOA or Florida Product Approval. Save the approval documents and manufacturer installation instructions. Verify NOAs here.
• If you have an HOA or condo association, obtain their written approval before submitting your permit application.
• Apply for a building permit through the city portal. Include the Retrofit Window & Door Schedule, product approvals, installer license and insurance, and any requested shop drawings. Apply for a permit online.
• Plan review checks that each opening is covered by the correct approval and that anchorage matches the manufacturer instructions.
• Inspections typically include in‑progress and final checks. Keep the NOA or Florida Product Approval and installation details available on site.
• Close out the permit and store the final approval with your records. This documentation supports resale and insurance credits.
• Optional: You may use a registered private provider for plan review and inspections if you follow the city’s submittal rules. See the city’s private provider guidance.

Design choices that matter

Frame material and profile

• Aluminum: Slim sightlines and strong frames that support larger sizes and higher design pressures. Coastal finishes and marine‑grade hardware help resist corrosion.
• Vinyl or composite: Strong energy performance at accessible price points. Size and pressure limits can differ, so confirm what is allowed in the approval documents.

Glazing, tint, and energy comfort

Impact units use laminated glass that stays bonded to a clear interlayer after breakage, keeping a weather barrier in place during pressure cycling. You can add low‑e coatings and select tints to manage heat and glare. In South Florida, buyers often prioritize lower solar heat gain coefficient to reduce cooling loads. Review ENERGY STAR guidance for window performance in warm climates. Compare ENERGY STAR window options.

Size, configuration, and style

Large picture windows and wide openings are possible if your chosen product was tested at those sizes and pressures. The NOA or Florida Product Approval lists maximum unit sizes and any mullion or assembly requirements. If you want floor‑to‑ceiling glass or expansive views, confirm the limits of use in writing before you order.

Coastal durability details

Ask for corrosion‑resistant finishes, stainless or approved fasteners, and marine‑grade hardware. The approval documents and installation instructions specify anchorage types, fastener patterns, and sealants that must be followed in coastal environments. Warranties often depend on proper maintenance and approved hardware.

Interior comfort benefits

Laminated impact glass can reduce outside noise compared to single‑pane glass, and tight seals can help with air infiltration. With the right low‑e choice, you can improve comfort and manage energy use while still letting in plenty of daylight.

HOA and architectural fit

Many associations regulate frame colors, muntin patterns, and external appearance. Secure HOA approval early so your chosen style and finish align with community guidelines and your permit timeline.

What it costs in South Florida

Installed impact window pricing varies by size, style, frame, and design pressure. Published Florida ranges show:

• Small or basic units: roughly 400 to 800 dollars each installed
• Typical mid‑size windows: roughly 800 to 1,500 dollars each installed
• Whole‑home projects: from the low tens of thousands upward, especially for large custom openings or coastal HVHZ requirements

Use these as starting points and request itemized local quotes. See typical Florida cost ranges.

Insurance credits and grants

Florida insurers often provide premium credits for documented opening protection. To receive credits, you will typically submit a Uniform Mitigation Verification Inspection Form (OIR‑B1‑1802) completed by a qualified inspector, along with photos and permit closure documents. Access the OIR wind mitigation form.

Florida has periodically funded home‑hardening grants that may include impact windows. Program phases and eligibility change, so check current details before you buy. Review the My Safe Florida Home program.

Installation and inspection tips

• Follow the approval: Installers must follow the exact anchorage pattern, fasteners, bucks, and sealants shown in the NOA or Florida Product Approval and the manufacturer’s instructions.
• Match the paperwork: The installed product model, size, and glass configuration must match the approval used for permitting.
• Keep records: Store your NOA or Florida Product Approval, permit, inspection photos, and final closeout in a safe place. Insurers and future buyers will ask for them.

Care, warranties, and service

Impact windows are low‑maintenance compared to storm shutters. Keep weep holes clear, clean operable tracks, and check exterior sealant periodically. Ask for both the manufacturer’s product warranty and the installer’s workmanship warranty, and confirm that the installed units match the approval numbers on your permit. Your NOA or Florida Product Approval verifies tested performance, not warranty terms.

Quick buyer checklist

• Get the NOA or Florida Product Approval for every window type and size
• Confirm design pressures and size limits match your openings
• Choose frame, glass, and finish that fit your aesthetic and HOA rules
• Secure HOA approval before you submit your city permit
• Submit a complete permit package to avoid delays
• Photograph installation steps and keep all approvals for insurance
• Schedule a wind mitigation inspection after final permit closeout

Ready to align design, code, and value?

If you want your Pompano window upgrade to enhance everyday living, pass inspection smoothly, and support resale, bring in a local advisor who treats the details like they matter. For a personalized plan and introductions to vetted installers, connect with Alexandra Gonzalez.

FAQs

Do you need a permit to replace windows in Pompano Beach?

• Yes. Window replacement that alters exterior openings is a code‑regulated activity in Pompano Beach and requires a building permit and inspections through the city.

What are Miami‑Dade NOAs and Florida Product Approvals?

• They are official documents that prove a window was tested for impact and pressure performance and show allowed sizes and required installation details. In HVHZ locations, inspectors rely on these approvals to sign off on your project.

Do impact windows replace the need for storm shutters?

• Generally yes. Impact windows are considered permanent opening protection, so separate shutters are usually not required for debris protection, though you should confirm any HOA or insurer specifics.

How do insurance discounts for impact windows work?

• Carriers typically require a wind mitigation inspection using the OIR‑B1‑1802 form plus proof of permitted installation. Discounts vary by carrier and property.

Can an engineer’s letter replace an NOA or Florida Product Approval?

• In typical residential replacements, the most accepted path is to use windows with existing NOA or state Product Approval for the exact sizes and configurations. Always confirm with the city plan reviewer in advance.