Fortunately for your family, Tad Newman and his father decided to tap into the rewarding market of installing impact resistant windows. They acquired the passion for the trade fixing and selling houses in the days of the hot real estate market. So Tad and his father obtained their general contractor licenses and jumped into the window world, and today, three years later, Newman Windows and Doors is an expert installer of impact-resistant windows and doors. For the Newmans, craftsmanship is paramount - employees get bonuses based on the quality of their work, not the number of installations. Tad took time recently to answer a few questions about the product.

What trends are you seeing in regard to impact-resistant windows and doors?

Impact-resistant windows are now being installed in a growing percentage of new construction, and of course, we do installations in existing houses and buildings. They continue to be the optimal window choice for protecting people and valuables from high winds. New technology in the manufacturing of vinyl windows is making them stronger and less expensive than aluminum windows.

Are there industry standards that customers should look for?

Homeowners shopping for replacement windows should look for a Miami-Dade certification sticker, or ask the salesperson if the windows are "Miami-Dade approved." If so, that means the product has undergone strict testing standards established by Miami-Dade County after Hurricane Andrew in 1992. In the industry, this standard is generally thought to be more rigorous than those of some other national product-certification groups.

What type of windows will help homeowners conserve energy?

We recommend "Low-E" coated windows, which reflect heat, helping keep interior rooms cooler when it's hot out and warmer when it's cold out. There are different layers of Low-E coatings, and thus different levels of thermal transfer, which allow the products to be offered in a range of price options, which is helpful to homeowners. It's also important to note that most modern windows offer protection against ultraviolet light. That's important because UV light can fade your furniture, drapes and artwork. Homeowners need to realize, however, that UV protection does not restrict the transfer of heat through the glass - that's why Low-E coating is just as important.

What should customers look for in a window contractor in terms of quality of work, as well as site prep and cleanup?

A reputable window company will go the extra mile in terms of quality, such as using stainless steel screws and high-quality caulking that will ensure that window seals last for years. A reputable contractor will stand by its work no matter what. If a sill is cracked in the process, they'll replace it. If drywall or stucco gets damaged, they will repair it. As far as cleanup, a good company will use a vacuum filter system to clean the air around the window opening during install.

Newman Windows & Doors, Inc. 561. 640.1092, is an American owned and operated company that specializes in impact resistant windows and doors. Newman Windows & Doors' factory-trained technicians are equipped to install many types of energy conserving windows and glass doors. Newman Windows & Doors is a member of www.ReferredHomeServices.com, a website of respected, experienced, dependable businesses who meet or exceed RHS's rigorous review process which requires proof of proper licensing, certifications, insurance and ten verified customer references. Referred Home Services 561-401-4004. www.ReferredHomeServices.com.