What Are Impact Windows? (And Why Florida Homes Need Them)
Living in Florida is great—sunshine, ocean views, and warm weather all year round. But with the good comes the bad, especially during hurricane season. One of the smartest things Florida homeowners can do is install impact windows. But what are impact windows and why are they so important?
In this post we’ll explain what impact windows are, how they work and why they’re necessary for Florida homes in 2025 and beyond.
What Are Impact Windows?
Impact windows, also known as hurricane or storm windows, are designed to withstand strong winds and flying debris during hurricanes or severe weather. These windows are made with layers of glass and durable interlayers, usually made of PVB or EVA, which hold the glass together even if it breaks.
Instead of shattering into sharp pieces like regular glass, impact glass stays intact in the frame—reducing the chance of injury and preventing wind and water from getting into your home.
Impact Window Features:
- Laminated glass with interlayer
- Reinforced frames and hardware
- High design pressure ratings (DP ratings)
- Meets Florida Building Code standards
How Do Impact Windows Work?
Impact windows work like a car windshield. When hit by flying debris—branches, roof tiles, outdoor furniture—the outer layer of glass may crack but the inner laminated layer holds the glass in place. This prevents catastrophic blowouts and keeps your home sealed against wind, rain and pressure changes.
How They’re Tested:
Impact windows are tested with:
- Large missile tests (simulating flying debris)
- Wind-driven rain resistance
- Pressure cycling to simulate hurricane winds
Only windows that pass these tests are certified as impact-resistant by organizations like the Florida Building Commission (FBC) and Miami-Dade County.
Why Florida Homes Need Impact Windows Florida is ground zero for hurricanes and tropical storms. Every year, residents prepare for wind events that can cause massive property damage. Impact-resistant windows offer more than just safety—they offer peace of mind and long-term protection.
1. Hurricane Protection
The biggest reason to install impact windows in Florida is obvious: hurricane protection. Flying debris and extreme wind pressure are the leading causes of window failure during storms. A broken window during a hurricane can allow wind to enter your home, increasing internal pressure and possibly lifting off the roof.
Impact windows keep your home’s envelope safe.
2. Increased Security
Impact-resistant windows also protect against break-ins. The same laminated glass that stops hurricane debris can deter intruders, who find it nearly impossible to break through. This added layer of security means you’re protected 24/7—not just during storms.
3. Energy Efficiency
These windows help regulate indoor temperatures by blocking UV rays and reducing heat transfer. That means lower cooling costs during Florida’s hot and humid summers and a more comfortable home year-round.
4. Noise Reduction
Live near a busy street or in a high-traffic area? Impact windows drastically reduce outside noise, creating a quieter indoor environment.
5. Insurance Discounts
Many Florida homeowners receive home insurance discounts for installing impact-resistant windows, especially if they meet certain wind mitigation criteria. Check with your insurer—you could save hundreds of dollars per year.
Impact Windows vs. Hurricane Shutters
Some Florida homeowners debate between impact windows vs. hurricane shutters. Both offer protection, but they differ in convenience, aesthetics and long-term value.
FeatureImpact WindowsHurricane ShuttersAlways Ready✅ Yes❌ No (must be installed before each storm)Aesthetic Appeal✅ Sleek, clean look❌ Bulky or obstructiveEnergy Efficiency✅ Excellent❌ NoneNoise Reduction✅ Yes❌ NoHome Value✅ Adds value⚠️ Neutral
While shutters are less expensive upfront, impact windows provide year-round benefits without the hassle of installation and storage.
Florida Building Code RequirementsIf you live in coastal Florida or designated High-Velocity Hurricane Zones (HVHZ) like Miami-Dade and Broward counties, impact protection is required by law for new construction and certain renovations. That means you’ll need impact-resistant windows or approved shutters to be compliant.
Even outside HVHZ areas, many local building departments in Central and Southwest Florida now encourage or require impact-resistant upgrades.
Impact-Resistant Window Cost in Florida
The cost of impact windows varies by:
- Home size and number of windows
- Window brand and features
- Frame materials (vinyl, aluminum, wood-clad)
- Installation complexity
Average Costs:
- $800–$1,500 per window, including installation
- A typical 2,000-square-foot home may cost $12,000–$25,000
While the initial cost is higher than traditional windows, the long-term ROI is strong, considering energy savings, insurance discounts and hurricane damage.
Conclusion
For Florida homeowners, installing impact-resistant windows is one of the smartest decisions you can make. They offer protection during the worst weather, energy efficiency and security and increased value.
Whether you’re building a new home or upgrading your current one, these windows give you peace of mind, year-round comfort and lasting value.
Ready to get impact-resistant windows in Florida?
Contact All American Exteriors today for a free consultation and learn how we can install storm windows in your home.
