North America · Window Manufacturer

CGI Windows & Doors

🇺🇸 USA · Last reviewed by Justin Orloff

Cgi Windows window systems

Quick Facts

founded

1992

Miami, Florida, USA

primaryMaterials

Aluminium frames, laminated impact glass

glazingPartner

In-house - Miami-Dade approved laminated hurricane impact glass

marketTier

Mid-Range to Premium

Brand at a Glance

Founded: 1992
HQ: Miami, Florida, USA
Market position: South Florida impact window specialist - Miami-Dade HVHZ approved
Primary market: Miami-Dade, Broward, Palm Beach, and South Florida coastal
Key products: SENTINEL Plus, SEQUENT (sliding), FORTÉ (casement)
Website: cgiwindows.com

Product Range

SENTINEL Plus
SEQUENT
FORTÉ

Why This System

CGI products meet Miami-Dade HVHZ approval - the most demanding US residential impact standard. This is the highest-performing category of impact glazing. Miami-Dade approval means the glass, frame, and hardware system has been tested as an integrated unit. The seal integrity between glass and frame is part of the approved system - do not disturb or apply products near the glass-to-frame gasket. South Florida's proximity to the ocean means CGI windows face near-constant salt air exposure. Salt buildup on aluminium frames and glass is the most frequent maintenance issue.

Step 1 of 2: Manufacturer Recommendations

Official Care Guidance

No official guide published. The steps below are based on Justin Orloff's 25 years hands-on experience with this system.

Step 2 of 2: The Orloffs Protocol

The Orloffs Protocol

This is how I clean CGI Windows & Doors windows. The tools and technique below come from 25 years of daily professional work on the glass. Every step has been tested on real installations and adapted specifically for CGI Windows & Doors systems.

Pro Tools

My daily tool list. This is what I carry to every job.

1Ettore Squeegee 18"

2Unger HiFlo Pure Water Pole

3Unger lint-free microfibre

Follow these steps in order. Each one builds on the last. This is the same sequence I use on every CGI Windows & Doors installation.

1
Inspect glass condition
Check each CGI panel for damage before cleaning. Note any chips or cracks near glass edges.
2
Pre-rinse with deionised water
On coastal properties, rinse glass and frames with deionised water first.
3
Apply solution and squeegee
pH-neutral solution. Squeegee glass - no abrasive tools.
4
Wipe frames with microfibre
Non-abrasive microfibre on aluminium frames and around seals.
5
Final deionised rinse
Rinse with deionised water. Dry frames with clean microfibre.

Watch the Window Cleaning Manifesto hereSee these techniques in action. Free, 5 minutes, lifetime access.

Pro Tips

South Florida coastal cleaning frequency needs to be higher than standard residential - salt accumulation is fast. Recommend monthly exterior glass maintenance contracts on oceanfront CGI properties.

What NOT To Do

Do not use abrasive tools on CGI laminated impact glass
Do not use tap water as a final rinse on coastal South Florida properties
Do not use tools near the glass-to-frame seal
Do not clean a CGI unit with damaged glass without advising the client first
Do not use HF-based cleaners on impact glass

Bundle Kits and Tool Recommendations

Bundle Kit

Pro KitThe full professional setup. Brass squeegees, T-bar with applicator cover, tool belt, rags, soap, and bucket. Everything from the daily tool list in one box.Shop now →

Tool Recommendations

Ettore 18-inch squeegee - impact glass protocol

View on Amazon [coming soon]

Unger HiFlo Pure Water Pole - deionised rinse essential on South Florida coastal

View on Amazon [coming soon]

pH-neutral window cleaning solution

View on Amazon [coming soon]

Cleaning Frequency

Exterior glass: Monthly on oceanfront; every 2-3 months on inland coastal (Deionised rinse mandatory on all coastal properties). Interior glass: Every 6 months. Seal inspection: Every exterior clean

Frequently Asked Questions

How often should I clean CGI Windows & Doors windows?

For CGI Windows & Doors windows, Exterior glass: Monthly on oceanfront; every 2-3 months on inland coastal (Deionised rinse mandatory on all coastal properties). Interior glass: Every 6 months. Seal inspection: Every exterior clean. Coastal or urban locations may need more frequent cleaning.

What tools do I need for CGI Windows & Doors windows?

Professional cleaning of CGI Windows & Doors windows requires my daily tool list of: Ettore Squeegee 18", Unger HiFlo Pure Water Pole, Unger lint-free microfibre.

What should I avoid on CGI Windows & Doors windows?

Do not use abrasive tools on CGI laminated impact glass

Does CGI Windows & Doors publish an official cleaning guide?

CGI Windows & Doors has not published an official cleaning guide. The protocol on this page is based on Justin Orloff's 25 years hands-on experience.

Can I use a water-fed pole on CGI Windows & Doors windows?

Yes, purified water via a water-fed pole is one of the safest methods for CGI Windows & Doors glass. Ensure TDS is at or near zero before use and avoid directing high-pressure water at seals or gaskets.

Field Notes

“CGI is the dominant impact window brand in Miami-Dade. Master the impact glass protocol and salt air management and you are equipped for the most common residential window in South Florida. Miami-Dade property owners are often keenly aware of the performance requirements for their windows. Professional, knowledgeable service on CGI windows builds long-term client trust.”

Justin Orloff

What's next for you?

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