Hurricane Window Inspection Checklist: What Broward County Homeowners Should Check Before Peak Season

Hurricane season in South Florida runs through November, and we're heading into the peak months. If you haven't inspected your windows yet, now is the time. A compromised window can cost you thousands in water damage, and it's one of the easiest things to check yourself.

Here's what you need to look for—and when to call a licensed contractor to assess replacement.

The 6-Point Window Inspection Checklist

1. Check the Frame for Cracks or Water Damage

Look at the wooden or aluminum frame around each window. Are there visible cracks, soft spots, or peeling paint? Water damage appears as discoloration or swelling. If you see these signs, water has already gotten into the frame—and that usually means the seal is compromised.

What to do: If damage is light (surface cracks only), a paint touch-up might work. If the frame is swollen or soft to the touch, the window likely needs replacement.

2. Inspect the Weather Seals and Caulking

Run your hand along the seal where the window meets the frame. Is the caulk cracked, peeling, or missing? Can you easily pull the weather stripping away from the frame? A broken seal is the #1 reason windows leak during a hurricane.

What to do: Small gaps can be re-caulked (inexpensive). Large missing sections mean the window should be re-sealed professionally or replaced.

3. Look for Condensation or Fogging Between Panes

Open up double-pane or triple-pane windows on a cool morning and look inside the glass. If you see condensation or fog trapped between the panes, the seal has failed. The window is losing its insulation value—and more importantly, it's vulnerable to water infiltration.

What to do: Fogging between panes cannot be repaired; the window needs to be replaced.

4. Test for Air Leaks (The "Candle Test")

On a breezy day, hold a lit candle or lighter near the window frame and sash. Watch the flame. If it flickers or blows out, you have an air leak. This matters because air leaks = water leaks in a hurricane.

What to do: Minor leaks can be sealed with caulk or weather stripping. Significant leaks suggest the window frame is warped and needs replacement.

5. Verify Hardware Is Operational and Secure

Open and close each window. Are the locks tight? Do they close smoothly without sticking? Check that hinges and operators are not rusty or loose. Loose hardware won't hold a window shut under hurricane pressure.

What to do: Tighten hardware with a wrench. If hinges or operators are corroded (common in coastal salt air), they may need replacement.

6. Check for Impact Resistance (if applicable)

Look for a label or sticker on the window that says "Impact Rated," "Hurricane Rated," or gives a frame test rating (e.g., "ASTM D6886"). In Broward's High-Velocity Hurricane Zone (HVHZ), impact-rated windows are strongly recommended—and often required if you've had recent window work done.

What to do: If your windows are not impact rated and you live in the HVHZ, schedule an assessment. Non-impact windows won't hold up to flying debris.

When to Repair vs. Replace

Issue	Repair?	Replace?
Cracked caulk	✓ Yes, usually	Only if frame is also damaged
Fogging between panes	✗ No	✓ Yes, required
Frame rot or swelling	✗ Temporary only	✓ Yes, soon
Loose or rusty hardware	✓ Yes	Only if hardware cannot be tightened
Non-impact windows in HVHZ	✗ Not recommended	✓ Recommended for hurricane protection

The Bottom Line

A pre-season window inspection takes 20 minutes and can save you thousands in water damage during the hurricane season. If you spot serious issues—frame rot, fogging, or non-impact windows in an HVHZ property—get quotes now, before demand spikes.

Renomatix can connect you with licensed contractors who specialize in hurricane-rated window replacement and repairs. Get a free assessment of your windows today.