PGT and CGI are the two dominant impact-window manufacturers in Florida residential. Both meet Florida Building Code Section 1626 in their certified product lines. The differences come down to product depth, frame finishes, regional availability, and pricing.
Quick comparison table
| Factor | PGT | CGI |
|---|---|---|
| Top-tier DP rating | +90/-105 psf (WinGuard Vinyl) | +85/-100 psf (Sentinel) |
| Standard Brevard pricing | $700-$1,200 per window installed | $750-$1,400 per window installed |
| Frame materials | Aluminum, vinyl, hybrid | Aluminum, vinyl, hybrid |
| Frame finish options | 15+ standard colors | 12 standard colors |
| Lead time (Brevard) | 4-8 weeks | 6-10 weeks |
| NOA coverage | Comprehensive, including HVHZ | Comprehensive, including HVHZ |
| Warranty | Limited lifetime | Limited lifetime |
When PGT is the right choice
- You need a wide color/finish palette to match existing exterior trim
- You want a slightly faster lead time
- You are in a budget-conscious project where every $200/window matters
- Your contractor has long-standing PGT relationship and pricing tier
When CGI is the right choice
- You want premium aluminum frames with cleaner sightlines
- You are building or renovating to higher-end aesthetic standards
- You need their specialty products (large-opening doors, architectural sizes)
- You are not in a hurry and can wait the extra 2 weeks
What does not actually differ much between them
Both PGT and CGI use laminated glass with PVB or SGP interlayer that meets ASTM E1996 large-missile impact testing. Both carry Florida DBPR NOA certification. Both qualify for the same insurance wind-mitigation discount tier when installed per their NOA approved methods. The "which window is safer" question is mostly marketing - they are functionally equivalent at the same DP rating tier.
Our recommendation for Brevard County homes
For most Brevard remodels in 2026, PGT WinGuard is the practical pick. The pricing is competitive, the lead time is shorter, and our installation crew has years of experience with their hardware and NOA documentation requirements. For luxury homes targeting top resale market or specific architectural details, CGI Sentinel is worth the premium.
Either way, the installation quality matters more than the window brand. A perfectly-installed mid-grade window holds up better than a poorly-installed premium window. Verify your contractor's NOA documentation and installation method certifications before signing.
What to verify with your contractor
- Specific NOA number for the exact window model you are buying
- DP rating sized to your home's wind zone (ASCE 7 calc per opening)
- Approved installation method (anchor type, anchor spacing, sealant)
- Post-install wind-mitigation inspection (Florida form 1802) coordination
- Insurance carrier discount tier confirmation before signing