Top 5 Window Styles for Florida Homes
When it comes to choosing windows for your Florida home, style isn’t the only consideration. With the state’s unique climate—hot, humid, hurricanes and salt air—choosing the right type of window can make you more comfortable, more energy efficient and protect your home from the elements.
Luckily today’s windows combine style with performance, giving Florida homeowners a lot of options. In this article we’ll explore the top 5 window styles that can withstand the Sunshine State’s climate while looking and feeling great.
1. Single-Hung Windows
Overview:
Single-hung windows are a classic, cost effective choice found in many Florida homes. These windows have two sashes but only the bottom sash moves vertically while the top remains fixed.
Why They Work in Florida:
- Energy efficiency: The fixed upper sash reduces air leakage and insulates better.
- Storm resistance: Fewer moving parts make single-hung windows less likely to fail in high winds.
- Affordability: Single-hung styles are generally more budget friendly than double-hung.
- Space saving design: Great for smaller rooms or where exterior clearance is limited.
Best Use Cases: Bedrooms, bathrooms or any area where simple ventilation is needed.
2. Casement Windows
Overview:
Casement windows are hinged on the side and open outward with a crank handle. They offer unobstructed views and full top to bottom ventilation.
Why They Work in Florida:
- Superior ventilation: Casement windows can be angled to catch the breeze and cool your home naturally.
- Tight seal: When closed the window sash presses against the frame for excellent air and water tightness.
- Storm performance: When made with impact resistant glass and strong frames casement windows are a top choice for hurricane prone areas.
Best Use Cases: Living rooms, kitchens and areas where maximum airflow and views are important.
3. Awning Windows* Rain friendly ventilation: You can keep awning windows open in light rain without letting water in.
- Energy efficient seal: Like casement windows they close tightly to block out heat and moisture.
- Compact and secure: Their smaller size and positioning—often high on walls or above doors—offer added privacy and security.
Best Use Cases: Bathrooms, basements or in combination with fixed windows for added ventilation.
4. Horizontal Sliding Windows
Overview:
Horizontal sliders open by sliding one sash over the other, making them a practical choice for Florida homes that value functionality and low maintenance.
Why They Work in Florida:
- Easy to use: They’re simple to operate, great for spaces where you need to reach over countertops or furniture.
- Durable in coastal environments: Fewer moving parts mean fewer chances for mechanical failure due to salt air and moisture.
- Wide views and light: Sliders offer a broad clear view of the outdoors and let in plenty of natural light.
Best Use Cases: Living areas, patios or anywhere a low maintenance window with lots of light is desired.
5. Picture Windows
Overview:
Picture windows are large, fixed pane windows that don’t open. They’re perfect for showing off views and maximizing light in a space.
Why They Work in Florida:
- Energy efficiency: With no moving parts picture windows insulate better.
- Hurricane resistance: Fewer seams and no mechanical hardware means less vulnerability during storms.
- Natural light and aesthetics: They brighten up interior spaces and create a sense of openness.
Best Use Cases: Living rooms, stairwells or anywhere you want to highlight an outdoor view or increase indoor brightness.
Florida Homeowner Considerations
While choosing the right window style is important there are several other factors to consider when selecting windows for a Florida home:
1. Hurricane and Impact Resistance
Florida building codes in coastal areas require windows to meet strict impact resistant standards. Consider windows with laminated glass and reinforced frames that are certified to withstand hurricane force winds and flying debris.
2. Energy Efficiency
High humidity and the sun can quickly heat up your home. Look for ENERGY STAR® rated windows with:
- Low-E coatings
- Argon gas filled panes
- Insulated frames. These features help keep your home cooler and reduce energy bills in the summer.
3. UV Protection
Florida’s sun can fade furniture, flooring and artwork. Windows with UV blocking technology protect your home’s interior from sun damage and improve indoor comfort.
4. Maintenance and Durability
Salt air near the coast can corrode hardware and frames over time. Choose window materials like vinyl, fiberglass or aluminum with corrosion resistant finishes to minimize maintenance.
5. Ventilation and Airflow
With Florida’s mild winters you can often use natural ventilation. Window styles that open fully—like casement, awning or sliders—can reduce your need for air conditioning in the cooler months.
Summary
Choosing the right windows for your Florida home is about more than just style. The ideal window style should fit your lifestyle, be energy efficient and protect your home from Florida’s unique environment.
From space saving single-hung windows to breeze catching casements and show stopping picture windows the top 5 window styles here offer a range of solutions for Florida living.
When planning your next renovation or new build consult with a local window specialist to ensure you choose the right options for your location, lifestyle and budget. By investing in the right window styles now you’ll enjoy long term comfort, safety and energy savings for years to come.
