Living in a hurricane-prone area requires special protection from wind, rain, and flying debris. That’s why impact doors are a wise investment for homeowners in the Wind-Borne Debris Region or High-Velocity Hurricane Zone (HVHZ).
These heavy-duty, strong doors must pass intense testing requirements to qualify as hurricane-proof. Learn more about the features that set them apart from ordinary doorways:
Impact-Resistant Glass
Hurricanes, tropical storms, and other types of extreme weather can do much damage. They can blow homes over, or they can flood them with water. That’s why it’s essential to have a strong barrier between your home and the elements.
Impact-resistant glass is a good option for preventing damage. It has a thick interlayer that holds glass fragments together when shattered, reducing the risk of injury and preventing debris from entering your house.
Laminated impact glass is also insulated, which can reduce energy costs. This feature is essential for significantly reducing your heating and cooling expenses year-round. It can even help you qualify for insurance discounts.
Heavy-Duty Frames
If you live in a high wind volume hurricane zone, you must prioritize the strength of your entry doors. Standard door panes often shatter, but hurricane-impact doors are designed to resist the force of debris and strong winds.
The frames of these doors are made from a vinyl or aluminum material to prevent splintering and rusting. They also undergo several tests, including cyclical testing, to determine how long they can withstand hurricane-force wind loads. They must pass these tests to achieve an HVHZ rating.
These doors are necessary for Florida residents because they can protect their homes from severe storms and hurricanes. Putting up plywood is a tedious task compared to their effortless opening and closing. They also prevent water from entering the house, which could be dangerous for homeowners and their loved ones.
High-Tech Layers
The primary feature that makes hurricane doors so effective is their impact-resistant glass. They contain an inner layer of PVB or EVA that prevents the outer panes from shattering into dangerous shards. This design is similar to the safety glass in automobile windshields.
The frames of hurricane doors are also made from durable materials. They are designed to resist splintering, rotting, and rusting. They also undergo a cycle test, determining how much pressure they can withstand.
Another benefit of hurricane doors is that they protect homes from flood damage. Even a single inch of water can quickly lead to mold, mildew, and costly repairs. These doors keep stormwater out, providing a vital line of defense for families in Florida and other coastal areas.
Better Insulation
The best hurricane doors in Florida can resist the force of flying debris that can break windows and other parts of your home, protecting occupants from serious injuries. This feature is crucial for homeowners in coastal areas, as wind-borne debris is a common element of severe storms.
These doors are also insulated, helping protect your home from energy loss during the cold months. This added benefit can save you money on your monthly utility bill and qualify you for a discount on your insurance premium.
These doors have passed rigorous testing and comply with local building codes if you live in a High-Velocity Hurricane Zone (HVHZ). They are available in various designs, styles, and finishes to complement your home’s aesthetic.
Insurance Discounts
In states like Florida that are frequently affected by hurricanes, homeowners can often save money on homeowner insurance premiums by installing impact doors. These doors can help prevent critical damage from high winds, flying debris, and other storm-related damages.
Aside from being your first line of defense against hurricanes, impact doors can improve your home’s security and energy efficiency. They are usually made with aluminum or vinyl frames and filled with impact-resistant glass. They are also designed to resist break-in attempts and harsh weather conditions such as high winds and rain.
