Understanding the Difference Between Hurricane Impact Windows and Doors vs. Non-Hurricane Impact Options

When it comes to protecting your home or business in hurricane-prone areas, one of the most crucial decisions you can make is choosing the right windows and doors. A key consideration is whether to go with hurricane impact-rated windows and doors or standard, non-impact options. While both types serve similar basic functions, the differences between them are significant—especially when it comes to safeguarding your property against extreme weather events like hurricanes.

In this post, we’ll explore what hurricane impact windows and doors are, how they differ from non-impact alternatives, and why these distinctions matter.

What Are Hurricane Impact Windows and Doors?

Hurricane impact windows and doors are specially designed to withstand the intense winds, flying debris, and heavy rain associated with severe storms, particularly hurricanes. These impact-resistant products are constructed using advanced materials and technologies that help ensure they remain intact during extreme weather.

Key Features of Hurricane Impact Windows and Doors:

1. Laminated Glass: Impact windows and doors are typically made with multiple layers of laminated glass. The glass is sandwiched between two layers of durable, shatter-resistant film. This makes the window or door highly resistant to breaking upon impact from flying debris, which is one of the primary hazards during a hurricane.

2. Reinforced Frames: The frames of hurricane impact windows and doors are constructed from materials like steel or reinforced vinyl to handle the pressure and force exerted by high winds. This extra strength ensures that the windows and doors will not be blown out of their frames.

3. Wind and Debris Resistance: These windows and doors are tested to meet strict standards set by organizations such as the Florida Building Code (FBC) and Miami-Dade County, which are among the toughest in the country. They’re designed to endure winds of up to 200 mph and the impact of large, flying debris.

4. Additional Protection: Besides withstanding high winds, hurricane impact windows and doors also provide extra security by preventing easy break-ins. Even if the glass is damaged, the laminated layers help keep the window intact, preventing intruders from gaining access to your home.

What Are Non-Hurricane Impact Windows and Doors?

Non-hurricane impact windows and doors, also known as standard or regular windows and doors, are designed for everyday use under normal weather conditions. While they offer basic protection against the elements and can be energy-efficient, they are not built to withstand the severe conditions associated with hurricanes.

Key Features of Non-Hurricane Impact Windows and Doors:

1. **Standard Glass**: Non-impact windows typically use single or double-pane glass without the extra layers of laminated material found in hurricane-rated options. This makes them much more vulnerable to breakage when exposed to strong winds or flying debris.

2. **Standard Frames**: The frames of non-impact windows and doors are typically made from wood, aluminum, or vinyl, and while they can be strong, they’re not engineered to handle the pressure or force that hurricane winds can produce.

3. **Limited Wind Resistance**: While non-impact windows and doors can stand up to normal wind conditions, they’re not designed to resist the kind of catastrophic winds produced by hurricanes. If exposed to debris or a high-speed gust, they are likely to crack or shatter, leading to potential structural damage and interior flooding.

4. **Cost-Effective**: Non-impact windows and doors tend to be less expensive upfront compared to their hurricane-resistant counterparts. However, in regions where hurricanes are a threat, they may not offer long-term value because of their inability to provide adequate protection in extreme conditions.

Why Does the Difference Matter?

The difference between hurricane impact windows and doors versus non-hurricane options is all about safety, security, and long-term protection.

- Hurricane Protection: The primary reason people choose hurricane impact windows and doors is to protect their homes from the catastrophic damage that hurricanes can cause. Impact-rated products are designed to hold up against the high winds, rain, and debris that can easily shatter non-impact windows and doors. In the event of a hurricane, having the right windows and doors can mean the difference between a home that is safe and one that is exposed to further damage.

- Insurance Benefits: Many insurance companies offer discounts or incentives to homeowners who install hurricane impact windows and doors because these products help mitigate the damage caused by severe storms. Some areas with frequent hurricanes may even require these impact-rated products as part of the building code to ensure a safe and resilient community.

- Long-Term Value: While hurricane impact windows and doors come with a higher initial cost, they can save homeowners money in the long run. By reducing the risk of damage to your home during a hurricane, these windows and doors can lower repair costs, protect personal belongings, and potentially decrease your homeowners' insurance premiums.

- Energy Efficiency and Noise Reduction: Many hurricane-rated windows and doors also offer energy-efficient features, like low-emissivity (low-E) coatings that help reduce heat transfer. This can result in lower energy bills over time. Additionally, the laminated glass provides enhanced soundproofing, which can help reduce noise from the outside world—ideal if you live in a noisy area or near busy streets.

When Should You Choose Hurricane Impact Windows and Doors?

Hurricane impact windows and doors are especially important if you live in areas where hurricanes are a frequent and significant risk. If you live in a coastal area or anywhere within the path of potential hurricanes, upgrading to impact-resistant windows and doors is a wise investment.

In fact, in many regions, local building codes require hurricane impact windows and doors for new construction or when replacing old windows and doors. Even if you’re not in an area with strict codes, installing these products is an important safety measure that can offer peace of mind knowing your home will be better protected when the next storm hits.

In Conclusion…

Hurricane impact windows and doors offer unparalleled protection against severe weather, keeping your home safe from the destructive forces of hurricanes. While non-impact windows and doors may be suitable for areas with mild weather, they simply aren’t designed to withstand the kind of damage caused by high winds and flying debris.

Investing in hurricane-rated windows and doors not only enhances your home’s safety and security but also offers long-term savings and potential insurance benefits. If you live in a hurricane-prone area, upgrading to hurricane impact windows and doors should be a priority.

Stay safe and protect your home—because when it comes to hurricanes, it's better to be prepared than to wish you had been!