Living in Florida comes with year-round sunshine, beautiful beaches, and unfortunately, the constant risk of hurricanes. For homeowners, that means taking steps to protect your property from high winds, flying debris, and water intrusion. Many say that one of the most effective ways to reinforce your home is by installing hurricane impact doors.
But are they really worth it? This guide answers the most frequently asked questions about these specialized doors and helps you decide if they’re the right choice for your Florida home.
What Is an Impact Door?
A hurricane impact door is a specially engineered exterior door built to withstand extreme wind pressures and airborne debris common during hurricanes and tropical storms. Unlike standard doors, impact doors are made from reinforced materials like:
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Heavy-duty aluminum or fiberglass frames
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Laminated impact-resistant glass (often two panes with a plastic interlayer)
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High-performance seals to resist water and wind infiltration
These doors are tested to meet strict building codes, including Miami-Dade County’s HVHZ (High-Velocity Hurricane Zone) standards, which are some of the toughest in the country.
In simple terms: a hurricane impact door isn’t just a thicker door; it’s a complete safety system designed to protect your home when the weather turns dangerous.
Are Impact Doors Worth It?
Short answer: yes — for most Florida homeowners, hurricane impact doors are a smart investment.
Here’s why:
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Storm protection: They help prevent catastrophic damage from wind and debris, reducing your risk of interior water damage and structural failure.
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Security: Their reinforced construction makes them much harder to break into compared to standard doors.
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Energy efficiency: Many models are energy-efficient, helping reduce heating and cooling costs.
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Insurance discounts: Many Florida insurers offer reduced premiums for homes equipped with approved hurricane impact products (which includes hurricane windows.)
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Noise reduction: The thick, laminated glass can significantly reduce outside noise.
Considering the increasing frequency and intensity of storms, impact doors offer peace of mind and long-term protection that can far outweigh the upfront cost.
Are Impact Doors Required in Florida?
It depends on your location and the age of your home. In High-Velocity Hurricane Zones (HVHZ) — including Miami-Dade and Broward counties — hurricane impact doors or shutters are required for all exterior openings.
Outside of HVHZ regions, impact doors may not be mandated, but they are strongly recommended and can help your home meet state and local building codes during renovations or new construction.
If you’re replacing a door or building a new home in Florida, it’s best to check with your local building department to confirm what’s required in your area. Regardless of legal requirements, many Florida homeowners choose hurricane impact doors voluntarily for added safety and home value.
Do Impact Doors Increase Home Value?
Yes, hurricane impact doors can increase your home's value in several ways:
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Curb appeal: Modern impact doors come in a variety of styles and finishes that can dramatically enhance your home's appearance.
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Buyer confidence: Florida homebuyers often look for storm-ready homes. Having hurricane impact doors already installed can make your property more appealing.
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Lower maintenance: Impact doors are built to last, meaning fewer replacements or repairs over time.
Combined, these benefits often lead to a higher resale value and faster sale times, especially in coastal or storm-prone areas.
How Do I Know If My Door Is Impact Resistant?
Not all exterior doors in Florida are impact-rated, and it’s not always obvious by appearance alone. Here’s how to check:
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Look for a permanent label: Impact-rated doors often have a label or sticker indicating compliance with specific standards, like ASTM E1886/E1996 or Miami-Dade County approvals.
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Check the glass: If your door has glass panels, look for etched markings that say "impact" or include safety glass codes.
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Review your documentation: If your home was recently built or remodeled, you may have paperwork or a product manual identifying the door as hurricane impact-rated.
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Ask a pro: A certified contractor or FHIA Remodeling specialist can inspect your door and tell you whether it meets current impact resistance standards.
If your door lacks documentation or labeling, it’s safest to assume it isn’t impact-rated until confirmed otherwise.
How to Choose Hurricane Doors
Choosing the right hurricane impact door involves more than checking for compliance. You’ll also want to consider style, functionality, and performance:
1. Door Material
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Fiberglass: Durable, rot-resistant, and energy-efficient.
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Steel: Strong and secure but may rust over time without proper maintenance.
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Aluminum: Lightweight and corrosion-resistant, often used in coastal applications.
2. Glass Options
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Look for laminated impact glass that meets HVHZ standards.
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Consider Low-E coatings for added energy efficiency.
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Tinted glass can help with privacy and sun protection.
3. Style and Configuration
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French doors: Elegant and functional, great for patios.
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Sliding glass doors: Perfect for wide openings, available in impact-rated versions.
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Single-entry doors: Classic look, available in a wide range of designs.
4. Security and Hardware
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Multi-point locking systems are common in hurricane impact doors.
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Reinforced hinges and deadbolts offer additional protection.
5. Certifications
Always check that your door is:
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Florida Building Code (FBC) approved
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Miami-Dade County or NOA certified (for HVHZ areas)
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Tested for wind and impact resistance
FHIA Remodeling offers a wide range of hurricane impact doors that combine beauty, strength, and performance. Our team can guide you through the options that match your home’s aesthetic and local requirements.
Conclusion: Hurricane Impact Doors Are Worth It
In a state like Florida, where hurricane season is an annual reality, the benefits of hurricane impact doors are hard to ignore. Whether you're trying to comply with local codes, protect your family, or boost your home's value, these doors provide a durable, attractive, and practical solution.
Still not sure if your current doors are up to code? Or curious about which styles would work best for your home? FHIA Remodeling is here to help.
Schedule a free consultation today and get expert advice on upgrading to hurricane impact doors that match your home and meet Florida standards.
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