Fixed and picture impact windows

Yes. A picture window is a large fixed window that doesn't open. Fixed glass also covers architectural shapes such as arches, half-rounds, trapezoids, and transoms, and it's often set beside casements or rollers so the room still gets air without losing the view.

Per square foot of glass, usually yes, because there's no sash or operating hardware. A very large or shaped unit can still cost more in total, because it needs thicker glass. For example, a 37 by 50 inch fixed window is about $900 installed (average).

Much bigger than a window that opens. PGT lists its aluminum PW7720A fixed picture window at flange sizes up to 42 square feet, with 7/16-inch laminated glass and design pressures up to +90/-130 psf. Larger walls of glass are built from several units joined with approved mulls.

Yes. PGT's architectural line, the AR7720A, makes fixed impact glass in shapes such as half circles, quarter circles, eyebrows, gothic arches, octagons, ovals, trapezoids, and full circles. Shaped units are custom sizes, so they're measured for the opening rather than picked from a standard list.

No. Florida code requires at least one operable emergency escape opening in every sleeping room, and fixed glass can't open. A bedroom with a picture window also needs a casement, single-hung, or roller sized to the escape rule, or a door that leads outside.

On the beach, sea turtle lighting rules can apply. Florida's model ordinance calls for tinted glass with 45% or less inside-to-outside light transmittance on seaward and shore-perpendicular glass of new construction, and local ordinances vary. PGT offers glass options that meet the Sea Turtle Protection Code.

It can, since big glass lets in a lot of sun, so the glass package matters. PGT offers Low-E coatings such as EnergyShield, laminated insulating glass, and tints such as bronze and gray. We'll talk through the glass for west- and south-facing walls during the estimate.