In Florida, one of the most commonly discussed home protection methods mentioned during hurricane season is impact windows.
Are impact windows required in Florida?
This isn’t a small question for the Sunshine State, which suffers from quite frequent hurricanes and severe weather events during its seasons. Given that, many homeowners and builders ask themselves if it’s a mandatory requirement to install impact windows and doors. The answer is not so straightforward, as it depends on several factors including location and the specific building codes.
The Florida Building Code and Impact Windows
The Florida Building Code (FBC) is what provides the foundation for building and construction safety throughout the state. Updated every three years, the FBC incorporates cutting-edge research and technologies to make sure that buildings in Florida are strong, sustainable, and resistant to the impacts of the state’s climate. One of the main concerns attacked by the FBC is to provide protection against hurricane-force winds and flying debris.
FBC’s Requirements In High-Velocity Hurricane Zones (HVHZ)
The Florida Building Code specifies very strict standards for protecting buildings in High-Velocity Hurricane Zones, which include Miami-Dade and Broward counties, against wind-borne debris. In these areas, is required to utilize impact-resistant windows or window shutters in all new construction and substantial renovation. These windows must meet the Miami-Dade County Product Approval standards, which are some of the strictest in the nation. This ensures that the windows are able to stand up against heavy impacts and high wind speeds hurricanes typically bring with them.
Non-HVHZ Areas
In the rest of Florida, though the requirements are not as tight as in HVHZ, there still are important standards that must be met. The buildings have to be designed with precise wind pressures depending on the wind zone of the location in which the building is proposed to be constructed. This means that other factors like distance from the coast and past meteorological records have to be factored in. In these areas, homeowners can either install impact-resistant windows or opt for alternative protective measures such as storm shutters in order to fulfill the FBC requirements.
Wind-Borne Debris Regions
Florida has been divided into different wind zones (such as 120, 130, etc.) generated based on the historical data of wind speeds and paths of hurricanes. The above zones specify the wind pressure level that buildings need to be built for. It also has special building codes for wind-borne debris regions, which are areas expected to experience 120 mph or greater during a hurricane and must meet opening protections. These buildings have to be equipped with openings that are protected by impact-resistant windows that satisfy the building codes in these regions or approved protective devices.
Testing and Standards
Impact Windows needs to pass strict compliance and testing standards to meet the Florida Building Code, which includes a Large Missile Impact Test meant to replicate heavy objects launched by strong hurricane-force winds. Approved products shall be properly labeled to clearly identify that the approval is for compliance with FBC provisions. The label will also include information relative to the manufacturer, model, and the standards to which the product complies.
Benefits of Impact Windows:
Even if you live in a region without impact window codes, there are many advantages to installing them:
Hurricane Protection – Impact windows provide protection during storms by withstanding the force of hurricane winds and flying debris.
Improved Security: Since these windows are more secure from breaking they also offer increased security in case of an attempted break-in.
Energy Efficiency: Impact windows have greater insulation, making homes cooler in the summer and warmer in the winter, saving on energy bills.
Noise Reduction: The laminated glass is thick and aids in reducing noise from the surrounding area to create a tranquil indoor environment.
Insurance Savings: Many insurance carriers in Florida provide discounts on premiums for certain types of impact-resistant windows.
UV Protection – These windows reduce the harmful effect of UV exposure meaning less fading on furniture, floorings, and other internal decorative aspects.
Selecting the Perfect Impact Windows for You
Quality and professional installation are important factors in choosing the perfect impact windows. Sanctuary Windows and Doors is the #1 choice in Hollywood, Florida for anyone seeking quality hurricane-resistant windows and doors. We have a broad selection of impact windows and doors that meet the high standards of the Florida Building Code.