Free Estimate
Florida homeowners often focus on windows when planning hurricane protection, but exterior doors are another important part of the home's building envelope.
Front entry doors, French doors, patio doors, and other exterior openings can all be exposed to high winds, wind-driven rain, and windborne debris during severe weather.
Impact doors are designed and tested as complete door systems for specified impact and wind conditions. They can provide permanent hurricane protection while also giving homeowners opportunities to improve security, appearance, natural light, and everyday convenience.
Choosing an impact door involves more than finding a door labeled "hurricane-rated." Homeowners should compare the door material, glass configuration, design pressure, product approval, installation requirements, hardware, permitting, warranty, and contractor responsible for the project.
This guide explains what Florida homeowners should know before purchasing impact doors.
What Is an Impact Door?
An impact door is an exterior door system designed and tested to meet specified impact and wind-pressure requirements.
Depending on the product, the complete system can include:
- Door panel or panels
- Impact-resistant glass where applicable
- Door frame
- Locks and hardware
- Hinges
- Threshold
- Weatherstripping
- Anchoring components
The complete system matters.
Homeowners should not assume that replacing ordinary glass with impact-resistant glass automatically turns an existing door into an approved impact door system.
Why Are Impact Doors Important in Florida?
Florida homes can experience hurricanes, tropical storms, strong winds, heavy rainfall, wind-driven rain, intense sunlight, heat, and high humidity.
Exterior doors are part of the home's protective envelope and should be considered when homeowners plan hurricane-related improvements.
Impact doors may also appeal to homeowners looking for:
- Permanent storm protection
- Additional security
- Updated curb appeal
- Natural light through decorative glass
- Reduced need for temporary storm coverings on protected openings
- Durable exterior door systems
How Do Impact Doors Work?
Impact doors are tested as systems rather than simply as individual pieces of material.
Depending on the design, the system may use impact-resistant glazing, reinforced door construction, specialized frames, hardware, and anchoring.
The exact components vary by manufacturer, door style, material, size, and approved configuration.
Proper installation is also important because the door needs to be installed according to the requirements applicable to the specific product and project.
Are Impact Doors Hurricane-Proof?
No exterior door should be described as completely hurricane-proof.
The more accurate term is impact-resistant.
Impact doors are designed and tested to perform under specified conditions, but severe weather can exceed design conditions and exterior products can still experience damage.
Homeowners should look at the applicable product approval and performance information rather than relying on absolute marketing claims.
What Types of Impact Doors Are Available?
Florida homeowners may encounter several types of impact-resistant exterior doors.
Depending on the property and manufacturer, options can include:
- Impact front entry doors
- Impact glass entry doors
- Impact French doors
- Impact patio doors
- Single impact doors
- Double impact doors
- Impact doors with sidelites
- Impact doors with transoms
- Sliding glass impact doors
The correct configuration depends on the opening, homeowner preferences, applicable approvals, and project requirements.
Impact Front Entry Doors
The front door is often one of the most visible architectural features of a home.
An impact front entry door can combine storm protection with a new exterior appearance.
Depending on the product, homeowners may be able to select from different:
- Door materials
- Panel designs
- Glass configurations
- Colors and finishes
- Hardware styles
- Sidelite configurations
- Transom options
Homeowners should make sure the complete configuration being proposed is appropriate for the opening and intended application.
Impact Glass Entry Doors
Some homeowners want an entry door that allows more natural light into the foyer or entryway.
Impact glass entry doors can incorporate impact-resistant glazing into the approved door system.
Glass options can vary by manufacturer and product series.
When comparing doors, homeowners should review both the appearance and the performance specifications of the exact glass configuration.
Impact French Doors
French doors are commonly used for patios, balconies, courtyards, and other exterior areas.
Impact French doors provide the appearance and operation of paired doors while incorporating impact-resistant components into the complete system.
Because double-door openings can be large, homeowners should pay attention to the exact configuration, locking system, product approval, and installation requirements.
Single vs. Double Impact Doors
Some openings use a single exterior door while others are designed for double doors.
A double-door system is not simply two unrelated doors placed beside each other.
The complete configuration needs to work as an approved system.
Homeowners should compare the exact product proposed for their existing opening.
Impact Doors With Sidelites
Sidelites are narrow glazed or decorative sections positioned beside an entry door.
They can add natural light and create a wider, more dramatic entrance.
If sidelites are included in an impact-door project, they should be considered as part of the complete approved opening configuration.
Impact Doors With Transoms
A transom is an opening positioned above a door.
Like sidelites, transoms can introduce additional glass and architectural detail around an entryway.
When replacing a door with sidelites or a transom, homeowners should make sure the contractor evaluates the entire opening rather than focusing only on the central door panel.
Fiberglass Impact Doors
Fiberglass is one material homeowners may encounter while shopping for impact entry doors.
Depending on the product, fiberglass doors can offer a variety of styles and finishes while being designed for exterior use.
Homeowners should compare the specific approved door system rather than assuming that all fiberglass doors provide the same level of performance.
Steel Impact Doors
Steel exterior doors may also be available in impact-resistant configurations.
Depending on the product, homeowners may consider steel for its construction, appearance, security characteristics, and available designs.
As with any impact door, the specific product approval and complete system should be reviewed.
Aluminum and Glass Impact Doors
Aluminum-framed glass doors can provide a modern appearance with larger glazed areas.
These designs may be attractive to homeowners who want natural light and contemporary architecture while maintaining an impact-resistant exterior opening.
The amount of glass, frame design, size, and configuration can vary significantly between products.
Which Impact Door Material Is Best?
There is no single door material that is automatically best for every Florida home.
The appropriate choice depends on factors such as:
- Opening size
- Architectural style
- Desired amount of glass
- Product approval
- Design requirements
- Exposure conditions
- Maintenance preferences
- Budget
Homeowners should compare exact products rather than choosing based only on the broad material category.
Impact Doors vs. Standard Exterior Doors
Standard exterior doors and impact-resistant doors are not necessarily designed for the same conditions.
Impact door systems can incorporate specialized construction, glazing, frames, hardware, and anchoring designed for specified impact and wind-pressure requirements.
When comparing doors, homeowners should verify whether the specific product is approved for the intended application.
Impact Doors vs. Hurricane Shutters
Some homeowners use temporary or permanent shutter systems to protect exterior openings during storms.
An impact door takes a different approach because the storm protection is incorporated into the permanent door system.
This means homeowners generally do not need to cover an impact-rated door with a separate temporary storm panel each time a hurricane approaches, assuming the installed system provides the applicable opening protection for the project.
Statewide Windows & Doors does not sell hurricane shutters.
Can Impact Doors Improve Home Security?
Impact-resistant doors can provide an additional obstacle compared with some ordinary exterior door systems.
Impact-resistant glazing is designed differently from ordinary glass, and the complete door can incorporate robust frames, locks, and hardware.
However, homeowners should not interpret impact resistance as a guarantee that a door can never be forced open.
Security should be evaluated as one benefit of the complete door system rather than an absolute promise.
Can Impact Doors Have Decorative Glass?
Yes, depending on the manufacturer and product.
Impact entry doors can be available with a range of glass designs.
Homeowners may be able to choose options that balance:
- Natural light
- Privacy
- Exterior appearance
- Architectural style
- Impact performance
The exact decorative glass option needs to be part of an approved product configuration where required.
Can Impact Doors Help Reduce Outside Noise?
Some impact door systems may help reduce certain exterior sounds compared with older or less substantial door systems.
Actual results depend on factors including:
- Door construction
- Glass configuration
- Weatherstripping
- Installation
- Surrounding walls and windows
- Type of exterior noise
No exterior door should be expected to make a home completely soundproof.
Can Impact Doors Help With Energy Performance?
The energy characteristics of an exterior door depend on its construction and configuration.
For doors containing glass, factors can include:
- Glass configuration
- Low-E coatings where available
- Amount of glass
- Frame construction
- Weatherstripping
Homeowners interested in energy performance should compare the specifications of the exact products being proposed.
Why Weatherstripping Matters
Weatherstripping helps manage air and water around the operable portions of a door.
Over time, weatherstripping can wear or become damaged.
Homeowners should periodically inspect exterior doors for visible deterioration and follow the manufacturer's maintenance recommendations.
Why the Door Threshold Matters
The threshold is located along the bottom of the door opening.
It is part of the complete entry system and can play a role in operation, weather management, and the transition between interior and exterior surfaces.
Threshold details can vary significantly between products and applications.
Why Impact Door Hardware Matters
Door hardware is more than a decorative detail.
Depending on the system, components may include:
- Hinges
- Locks
- Handles
- Multi-point locking systems
- Flush bolts
- Other product-specific hardware
Homeowners should understand which hardware is included with the quoted door.
What Is a Multi-Point Locking System?
Some exterior doors use locking systems that secure the door at multiple points rather than only at a single lock location.
The exact hardware varies by manufacturer and door series.
Homeowners should ask how the proposed door operates and how its locking system should be maintained.
Do Impact Doors Need Product Approval in Florida?
Florida building projects can involve product approval requirements for applicable exterior products.
Homeowners should verify that the specific impact door and configuration proposed for their home is approved for its intended application.
Do not assume that every product marketed broadly as an "impact door" is appropriate for every Florida property.
Miami-Dade NOA vs. Florida Product Approval for Impact Doors
A Miami-Dade Notice of Acceptance, commonly called an NOA, is one recognized product-approval pathway homeowners may encounter when researching impact doors.
Florida also maintains a statewide product approval system.
For properties in the High-Velocity Hurricane Zone, homeowners should verify whether the specific product and configuration is approved for the intended HVHZ application.
A generic Florida Product Approval should not automatically be interpreted as approval for every HVHZ application.
What Is the HVHZ?
Florida's High-Velocity Hurricane Zone includes Miami-Dade and Broward County.
Homes within these areas are subject to specific requirements for applicable building projects.
Impact door selection in the HVHZ should account for the exact approved product, configuration, dimensions, design requirements, and installation.
Why Design Pressure Matters for Impact Doors
Exterior doors can experience substantial wind forces during severe weather.
The appropriate design requirements depend on the specific project and property.
Factors involving the building, opening, location, and exposure can influence the products appropriate for the project.
This is why homeowners should not select an impact door based only on appearance.
Impact Doors in Miami-Dade County
Miami-Dade County is within Florida's HVHZ.
Homeowners replacing exterior doors should work with a contractor familiar with the applicable product approvals, permitting requirements, installation details, and inspection process.
The exact door configuration should be appropriate for the specific opening and project.
Impact Doors in Broward County
Broward County is also within the HVHZ.
Although Miami-Dade and Broward share HVHZ requirements, permitting procedures can vary among individual jurisdictions.
Contractors should account for the requirements applicable to the actual property location.
What About Impact Doors Outside Miami-Dade and Broward?
Homes outside the HVHZ still need exterior doors appropriate for the applicable project conditions and requirements.
Being outside Miami-Dade or Broward does not mean product selection, wind requirements, permitting, or proper installation no longer matter.
Do Impact Doors Require a Permit in Florida?
Exterior door replacement projects may require permitting through the applicable local jurisdiction.
Requirements can vary depending on the location, building, and project.
The permitting process can involve:
- Permit applications
- Door schedules
- Product approval documentation
- Opening dimensions
- Installation information
- Inspections
- Permit closeout
Homeowners should ask their contractor how permitting will be handled before the project begins.
Does HOA Approval Replace an Impact Door Permit?
No.
A homeowners association and a government building department serve different purposes.
An HOA may regulate exterior appearance and could have requirements involving:
- Door color
- Door style
- Glass design
- Hardware appearance
- Sidelites
- Other visible architectural changes
HOA approval does not automatically replace an applicable building permit.
Impact Doors for Condominiums
Condominium door projects can involve additional requirements beyond those encountered with some single-family homes.
Depending on the building, owners may need to consider:
- Association approval
- Approved exterior appearance
- Specific product requirements
- Building access
- Work-hour restrictions
- Common-area protection
- Permitting
Condo owners should understand both association requirements and applicable government requirements before ordering a door.
Impact Doors for Older Florida Homes
Older homes may have exterior openings that differ from modern standard configurations.
Previous renovations can also affect the existing opening.
Before an impact door is ordered, the opening should be evaluated and accurately measured.
Homeowners should also discuss any visible deterioration or unusual construction around the existing doorway with their contractor.
Can You Put an Impact Door Into an Existing Opening?
Many replacement projects use the home's existing door opening, but the actual opening needs to be evaluated before the new product is ordered.
The contractor should consider factors such as:
- Opening dimensions
- Existing frame
- Surrounding construction
- Threshold conditions
- Exterior finish
- Interior finish
- Selected door configuration
What If You Want a Larger Front Door?
Changing the size or configuration of an exterior opening can create a more involved project than replacing a door within the existing opening.
Depending on the project, additional considerations can involve:
- Construction work
- Structural conditions
- Product selection
- Permitting
- Finishing work
- Project complexity
Homeowners should explain any desired opening changes before the contractor prepares the final project scope.
How Much Do Impact Doors Cost in Florida?
There is no single price that applies to every Florida impact door.
Cost can depend on:
- Door material
- Opening size
- Single or double configuration
- Amount of impact glass
- Decorative glass options
- Sidelites
- Transoms
- Hardware
- Manufacturer and product series
- Installation conditions
- Permitting
- Changes to the existing opening
A property-specific quote provides more useful information than a generic online average.
Why Can Two Impact Door Quotes Be Very Different?
Two proposals that both say "impact front door" may actually include very different products.
Differences can involve:
- Door material
- Manufacturer
- Product series
- Glass design
- Hardware
- Frame
- Sidelites
- Transoms
- Installation scope
- Permit handling
- Warranty
Homeowners should compare specifications rather than looking only at the final price.
Impact Door Installation Matters
Even a properly approved impact door needs to be installed correctly for the intended application.
Installation can involve:
- Removing the existing door
- Preparing the opening
- Positioning and aligning the new system
- Anchoring the frame
- Installing or adjusting hardware
- Addressing applicable perimeter details
- Testing operation
- Completing finishing work
The exact installation process depends on the door system and existing opening.
How Long Does Impact Door Installation Take?
Installation time depends on the specific project.
A straightforward single-door replacement may differ substantially from a large entry system containing double doors, sidelites, a transom, or modifications to the existing opening.
Other factors can include permitting, inspection requirements, accessibility, and existing construction conditions.
What Should You Expect on Installation Day?
Although projects vary, homeowners can generally expect the installation team to prepare the work area, remove the existing door system, prepare the opening, install the new product, adjust its operation, and complete applicable finishing work.
Homeowners should ask their contractor beforehand about:
- Furniture that needs to be moved
- Access to the entryway
- Pets
- Alarm sensors
- Expected work hours
- Inspection timing
- Cleanup
Can Impact Doors Lower Homeowners Insurance?
Impact-resistant exterior openings may be relevant to wind-mitigation features considered by Florida insurance companies.
However, homeowners should not assume that installing an impact door automatically guarantees a specific insurance discount.
Potential eligibility or savings can depend on:
- Insurer
- Policy
- Property
- Inspection
- Documentation
- Other opening protection
- Other wind-mitigation features
Homeowners should discuss their individual property with their insurance professional.
Should You Replace Your Doors and Windows Together?
Some homeowners replace one exterior door at a time, while others include doors as part of a whole-home impact project.
Replacing windows and doors during the same broader project can allow homeowners to evaluate the exterior openings together.
This can include:
- Impact windows
- Front entry doors
- French doors
- Sliding glass doors
- Other exterior openings
The right project scope depends on the condition of the home, homeowner priorities, and budget.
Do Not Forget Sliding Glass Doors
Sliding glass doors can represent some of the largest glazed openings in a Florida home.
If homeowners are planning comprehensive hurricane protection, these openings should be evaluated along with entry doors and windows.
Learn more about impact sliding glass doors.
Impact Doors and Whole-Home Hurricane Protection
A home may contain impact windows while still having exterior doors that have not been upgraded.
When planning an opening-protection project, identify all exterior openings, including:
- Windows
- Front doors
- Side doors
- French doors
- Patio doors
- Sliding glass doors
- Other glazed exterior openings
This gives homeowners a clearer picture of which areas are being addressed by the project.
How Do You Choose an Impact Door?
Start with the opening and the home's requirements rather than choosing based only on appearance.
Consider:
- Opening dimensions
- Single or double door configuration
- Door material
- Amount of glass
- Desired privacy
- Sidelites or transoms
- Applicable product approval
- Design requirements
- Hardware
- Exterior style
- Maintenance
- Warranty
A contractor can then help identify products that fit both the technical requirements and the homeowner's design preferences.
How Do You Choose an Impact Door Contractor?
The contractor responsible for installation should be researched along with the door itself.
Homeowners should consider:
- Florida licensing
- Experience with impact doors
- Experience in the homeowner's local market
- Permit handling
- Installation process
- Completed projects
- Customer reviews
- Warranty information
- Post-installation service
A high-quality door product and a high-quality installation process should be evaluated together.
Questions to Ask Before Buying an Impact Door
- Who manufactures the door?
- What product series is being quoted?
- What material is the door made from?
- What glass configuration is included?
- Is the exact configuration approved for my application?
- What design requirements apply to my opening?
- Are sidelites or a transom included?
- What hardware is included?
- Who handles the permit?
- What installation work is included?
- What finishing work is included?
- What warranty applies?
- Who handles service after installation?
Impact Door Buying Checklist
- Evaluate the existing door and opening.
- Decide whether you want a single or double door.
- Choose the desired amount of glass.
- Compare door materials.
- Review available sidelites and transoms.
- Identify the exact manufacturer and product series.
- Verify applicable product approval information.
- Understand project design requirements.
- Review hardware and locking options.
- Check HOA requirements if applicable.
- Understand permit responsibilities.
- Verify the contractor.
- Review completed projects and customer feedback.
- Compare quotes line by line.
- Review warranty and post-installation service.
Common Impact Door Buying Mistakes
Choosing a Door Based Only on Appearance
A beautiful door still needs to be appropriate for the opening and intended application.
Assuming All "Impact Doors" Are the Same
Materials, glass, hardware, approvals, configurations, and performance characteristics can differ significantly.
Ignoring the Entire Opening
Sidelites, transoms, and surrounding components should be considered when applicable.
Comparing Quotes Only by Price
Make sure the proposals include comparable products and installation scopes.
Forgetting About Permits
Understand who is responsible for the applicable permit process.
Ignoring Installation Experience
The contractor and installation process matter alongside the product.
How Statewide Windows & Doors Helps Florida Homeowners
Statewide Windows & Doors helps Florida homeowners plan impact door projects based on their home's actual openings, design preferences, and project requirements.
In addition to impact entry doors, Statewide provides impact windows and impact sliding glass doors, allowing homeowners to evaluate multiple exterior openings as part of a larger project.
Statewide has more than 25 years of combined industry experience and has completed thousands of projects across Miami-Dade and Broward County while serving homeowners throughout Florida.
Homeowners can review completed projects, explore service areas, or contact Statewide Windows & Doors to discuss an impact door project.
Why Choose Statewide Windows & Doors for Impact Doors?
An impact door project involves much more than selecting a door from a catalog.
The opening, product configuration, glass, hardware, approvals, permitting, installation, inspections, and post-installation service can all matter.
Statewide Windows & Doors helps homeowners navigate these parts of the project while also providing impact windows, sliding glass doors, and roofing services for Florida homes.
Final Words
Impact doors can provide Florida homeowners with permanent storm protection while also improving the appearance and functionality of exterior entrances.
But not every impact door is the same.
Door material, impact glass, hardware, sidelites, transoms, product approvals, design requirements, installation, permitting, warranty, and contractor experience should all be considered before making a decision.
Instead of choosing an impact door based only on price or appearance, compare the complete product and project scope.
The goal is to select an impact-resistant door system that fits your home, your opening, your design preferences, and the requirements that apply to your Florida property.
Tags
Subscribe to Statewide Windows & Doors's Blog
Comments