Hurricane Windows and Doors
What are Hurricane Windows and Doors?
Hurricane impact windows and doors were created after the devastation of Hurricane Andrew in 1992. After seeing the widespread destruction caused by the storm, Florida-based manufacturers began devising new windows and doors that could withstand not only the impacts of wind-borne debris, but also the forces exerted on the home by strong winds and rapid changes in atmospheric pressure.
The most common difference between non-impact products and hurricane windows and doors is the impact-resistant glass. Laminated glass, the technical name for impact glass, is constructed with a vinyl interlayer that prevents objects from penetrating through the glass into the home.
Hurricane windows and doors do have many benefits over hurricane shutters, including being a completely passive system. The final decision of hurricane windows and doors vs hurricane shutters will depend on your ultimate goals and budget.
Read MoreImpact glass is not shatter-proof, it is impact-resistant. This means that the glass can crack, but it will not break into pieces or away from the frame.
Read MoreFor an accurate cost, our consultants will walk you through all our products and their options. Every project we do includes custom ordered products from a variety of manufacturers, permitting, installation, and in some cases additional items like engineering and concrete xrays. We present a fair and competitive price upfront during your free consultation.
Read MoreCustom impact windows and doors have several advantages. It makes installation easier and more secure, and it can change the look and function of a space.
Read MoreCustom hurricane windows and doors will always take some extra time to create. Lead times vary week to week, and we work hard to continuously update this information for our clients. Right now, we are still experiencing some extended lead times as a result of COVID-19 changes in manufacturing, supply chain issues, and increased demand in the building industry.
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Hurricane Windows and the Florida Building Code
Any structure in the State of Florida, both residential and commercial, must abide by the most current edition of the Florida Building Code (FBC). Since this code is specially tailored to the climate and challenges faced in Florida, especially in South Florida, there is extensive information about required hurricane protection for your home and family.
According to the FBC, hurricane windows and doors must go through and pass extensive testing in order to be approved for use throughout the state. Products may earn a Florida Product Approval (FLPA), a Miami-Dade Notice of Acceptance (NOA), or both. The location of your home or business, the size of the building, and its proximity to the coastline or other large areas will determine exactly what specifications your hurricane impact windows and doors need to meet. Our consultants are well-versed in the Florida Building Code and will guide you to the right code-compliant solution for your project.
No, impact windows and doors are not specifically required in Florida. However, it is required to have some form of hurricane protection for all windows and doors, but you can choose between impact windows and doors, shutters, or other building code-approved coverings.
Read MoreHurricane impact windows and doors undergo stringent tests including missile impact tests, static water tests, and cyclic testing.
Read MoreImpact windows are not rated by hurricane category, but testing can mimic category 5 and stronger storm conditions.
Read MoreIt is highly recommended to choose a licensed, qualified contractor to install your new impact windows and doors. A quality installation is essential to ensure that your windows and doors meet the Florida Building Code and withstand storm winds and rain.
Read MoreHVHZ stands for High-Velocity Hurricane Zone and WBD stands for Wind-Borne Debris. The WBD zone indicates areas of Florida where products need to meet wind speeds of 130 mph. The HVHZ includes Broward and Miami-Dade counties, and here products must withstand higher wind speeds and undergo more stringent testing.
Read MoreBenefits of Hurricane Windows and Doors
Hurricane windows and doors got their name by being a great form of protection against storm damage. After installation, all you will ever need to do is close and lock your windows and doors to prepare them for a storm. This is especially helpful for those who may not live in their home year-round - no more scrambling to find someone to deploy your shutters for you.
Beyond storm protection, hurricane windows and doors are a great investment because they provide a variety of other benefits simply because of the way they are constructed. The vinyl interlayer used to make laminated (aka impact) glass helps to reduce sound and protect your home from intruders. There are also potential monetary benefits like reducing energy and insurance costs and improving your overall home value.
Some additional benefits of impact windows and doors include noise reduction, intruder protection, improved energy efficiency, potential insurance savings, and provides a high return on investment.
Read MoreImpact windows are not fully soundproof, but they have been proven to reduce exterior noise by up to 75%.
Read MoreWhile there is no guarantee that impact windows will increase the value of your home, Realtor Joseph MacFarlane says “Generally speaking, impact windows on a property appreciate the value since we are smack in the middle of hurricane country.
Read MoreThe short answer is yes, they can. Check with your homeowner’s insurance company to verify their requirements.
Read MoreAll hurricane windows and doors are more energy efficient than standard non-impact products. Glass options like Low-e and thermally broken frames can further improve energy efficiency.
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