Impact Windows in Sewall's Point, FL

Impact windows and large impact sliding glass doors are what most Sewall's Point owners ask about, because the houses here are built around views. The town sits on a narrow peninsula with the St. Lucie River to the south and west and the Indian River Lagoon to the east. About 71 percent of its 4.13 square miles is water. Waterfront homes tend to have wide glass walls, multi-panel sliders and tall picture windows, and each of those openings needs protection rated for open-water exposure.

Close to two landfalls

Hurricanes Frances and Jeanne both came ashore on Hutchinson Island just east of Sewall's Point in September 2004, exactly three weeks apart. Homes on the point took wind straight off the lagoon. Many owners who lived through that season decided they were done with panels on glass walls that are 12 or 16 feet wide.

Large sliders done right

An impact sliding glass door is tested with a specific number of panels, panel sizes and configuration. Wider and taller openings need heavier frames and are rated for lower pressures than smaller units, so the biggest openings take the most care in product selection. We look at:

• The required design pressure for that wall based on height and exposure
• Whether the opening fits a tested configuration, or needs a mullion or a different layout
• Sill height and drainage so wind-driven rain does not come in under the door
• Whether you want a pocket door that disappears into the wall or a stacking unit

Get a Free Estimate

Older peninsula homes

Sewall's Point was settled in 1889 and incorporated in 1957, and its 931 homes include older houses alongside newer waterfront builds. On older homes, openings may need structural work before larger impact units can go in. Changing the size of an opening is structural and typically needs engineered plans, so we tell you early if your idea crosses that line.

Town permits

Sewall's Point is its own incorporated town. Check with the town's building office for its permit process, which can differ from the county's. We prepare the application with product approvals and schedule the inspections.

Low elevation, high water

Much of the town sits about seven feet above sea level. That does not change the window rating, but it affects how we plan work at ground level, flashing and sill heights on doors that open toward the water. We pay close attention to door thresholds facing the lagoon and river.

Picture windows and transoms

Waterfront homes often pair sliders with fixed picture windows and transoms above them. Fixed units have no moving parts and can be rated for high pressures at larger sizes than operable windows. Where you want maximum view and do not need the window to open, a fixed impact unit can be the strongest and cleanest choice. We combine fixed and operable windows so each room still gets airflow where you want it.

Care for frames near salt water

With water on three sides, salt air reaches every wall. Rinse frames and tracks with fresh water every few months, keep weep holes clear so water drains out of the sill, and check that sliding door rollers move smoothly before storm season.