Are impact-resistant windows required in Florida?

The Florida Building Code (FBC) requires windows to be impact-resistant or protected if located within one mile of the coast where the wind speed is 110 mph or greater. (Of course, even if your home is not located in this area, this may be a good idea.)

What counties in Florida require impact windows?

This is an area consisting of Palm Beach County, Broward County, Miami-Dade County, and Monroe County. These zones require stronger impact products to meet higher wind speeds of 170 mph to 200 mph. Other areas in Florida require impact products or shutters that meet Wind-Borne Debris (WBD) certification.

Do you need hurricane proof windows in Florida?

According to the Florida Building Commission (FBC), if your home sits within one mile of a coastal area that receives winds more than 100 mph, windows must be: Impact-resistant. OR have some external protection measures such as hurricane shutters.

Does Florida require impact glass?

Impact windows and doors are not only required on the Florida coast but inland as well. Any areas located within a mile of the coastal mean high water line (MHWL) and face basic wind speeds of at least 110 mph must comply.

When did Florida Building Code require impact windows?

The Basic Requirements of the Florida Building Code for Windows. In 2001, after the devastating damage caused by Hurricane Andrew, the Florida Building Code (FBC) Association established stronger requirements for wind and debris resistant housing.

Differences Between Hurricane Impact Resistant Glass | FHIA Remodeling

What is the difference between impact windows and hurricane windows?

Hurricane Windows & Impact Windows Are Not the Same

To be considered a hurricane window, a product simply needs to provide a certain level of wind resistance. An impact window, on the other hand, will offer wind resistance as well as protection from impacts.

Are hurricane shutters mandatory in Florida?

The current Florida Building Codes demand that every home built after 2001 must either have hurricane shutters or storm windows. So yes, you do need some form of protection—whether you choose hurricane impact resistant windows or hurricane shutters is completely up to you.

Are aluminum windows allowed in Florida?

Thousands of Florida homes have been constructed with aluminum single-pane windows, which under the updated Florida Building Code released in July, are not permissible in most cases in new construction and window replacement projects.

Are hurricane windows necessary?

Trying to figure out the best way to protect your home during a hurricane is important since Florida is constantly threatened by hurricanes and strong winds. It is sensible that you protect your property with high impact resistant windows and doors.

What is code for exterior doors in Florida?

Door openings within a dwelling unit or sleeping unit shall have a minimum clear opening height of 78 inches (1981 mm). In dwelling and sleeping units that are not required to be Accessible units, exterior door openings other than the required exit door shall have a minimum clear opening height of 76 inches (1930 mm).

Are impact resistant windows worth the cost?

Impact windows do cost more than traditional windows, but they very well may pay for themselves by preventing extensive and expensive damage to your home. They are also more efficient, saving on energy costs, and can help significantly increase the value of your home and reduce your homeowners' insurance costs.

Which is better hurricane shutters or impact resistant glass?

Hurricane shutters don't offer the best protection against debris and high winds. So if you are looking for the ultimate in storm protection, you can't go wrong with hurricane impact resisting windows which will give your home the perfect protection against flying debris, strong winds, and other perils.

Do you still need hurricane shutters with impact windows?

Most older homes have windows that do not latch, close, or operate properly which can be a nuisance and could also be dangerous in hurricanes; even with hurricane shutters on. With impact hurricane windows and doors you do not need hurricane shutters.

What year did building codes change in Florida?

In response, Florida adopted a new statewide code – the 2002 Florida Building Code (FBC) which became one of the strictest in the nation.

What is the latest edition of the Florida Building Code?

Florida Building Code - Building, Seventh Edition (2020): ICC: 9781952468094: Amazon.com: Books.

How can you tell if a window is impact glass?

Watermarks are etched into the glass and are a surefire way to tell if a window has impact glass. If you can't find the watermark, the window label should give you the info you need.

When did hurricane windows become code in Florida?

The Florida Building Code was created in 2000 in response to Hurricane Andrew in 1992. Before then, counties and cities could create their building codes so long as they met state minimums.

Do impact windows reduce insurance?

Saving Money With Impact Windows

Impact windows lower homeowner's insurance because they are designed to resist breaking when struck by wind driven debris. They are typically made with double or even triple pane glass and as an added bonus, they are naturally energy-efficient.

What is the cost of impact windows in Florida?

Average Price Of Impact Windows

Sliding glass doors have an average cost of $6140, with 70% of prices falling between $4200-$8230. These price ranges assume white, vinyl frames with no grids, which is the most common configuration in Florida's hurricane prone regions. They also include materials and labor.

Are vinyl hurricane windows better than aluminum?

Unlike aluminum windows, vinyl windows are more durable and more resistant to corrosion, rotting, chipping, and peeling. Vinyl windows are also considered to be less maintenance than aluminum windows. In fact, these windows are considered to be almost completely maintenance-free.

Are aluminum or vinyl impact windows better?

Aluminum also faces corrosion and fading, whereas vinyl doesn't. However, aluminum is the stronger window material option of the two. It has a higher impact ratio and can withstand every climate out there.

Do vinyl windows warp in Florida?

Unlike wood frames, vinyl window frames won't rot nor warp during the hot Florida summers. They are also not susceptible to corrosion as other window frame materials are. Each different window frame material type comes with their distinctive look.

What is the code for hurricane shutters in Florida?

Shutters must be chosen and installed to ensure that there is at least one inch gap between the surface of the glass and the shutter and its components. This one-inch gap must be there during maximum deflection, and this means, it must be a little wider under normal conditions.

Do you really need hurricane shutters?

Hurricane shutters protect the vulnerable spots of your home or business. You can use them to protect your windows, doors, lanais, and more. Because they are impact resistant they will block flying objects and debris from hitting and damaging your home's openings. This will prevent damage to glass, doors, screens, etc.

Do hurricane shutters increase home value?

Increasing Resale Value

Installing hurricane shutters can significantly increase the resale value of your property. Potential buyers recognize the investment and care taken to maintain safety and security.