The sun is a standout in Coconut Creek, but so are the storm warnings. Living in South Florida means enjoying ocean breezes one month and preparing for hurricane season the next. It’s part of the deal, but how well your home handles it depends on what’s protecting it.
Impact windows and doors are the solution.
If you’ve been on the fence, wondering if they’re worth the price, how they actually work, or whether they’re any different from standard replacements, this guide is for you. We’ll walk through the real advantages, what to expect during installation and how to make the smartest decision for your home and budget.
In Florida, the weather isn’t always on your side, but your windows and doors can be.
What are Impact Windows and Why do You Need Them?
Impact windows aren’t just regular windows with fancy marketing. They’re specifically engineered to withstand extreme weather conditions. Think of them as your home’s first line of defense against hurricanes, tropical storms and even break-in attempts.
These windows feature laminated glass that’s designed to stay intact even when struck by flying debris. The glass might crack, but it won’t shatter into dangerous pieces or create an opening in your home. This is completely different from regular windows, which can explode inward during storms.
Here’s what makes impact windows special:
- Laminated glass construction: Two pieces of glass are bonded together with a special interlayer. When one side breaks, the other side and the interlayer keep the window intact. It’s the same technology used in car windshields.
- Reinforced frames: The frames are built stronger than standard windows. They need to support the heavier glass and withstand the pressure changes that happen during storms.
- Hurricane-tested: These windows undergo rigorous testing. They’re hit with 2×4 lumber traveling at 50 feet per second, then subjected to 9,000 cycles of pressure changes to simulate hurricane conditions.
The Hidden Benefits Beyond Storm Protection
Ask most Florida homeowners why they’re installing impact windows, and they’ll give you the obvious answer: hurricanes. It’s one of the most worthwhile purchases in their opinion. But once the work is done and the storms stay quiet, something unexpected happens.
The real magic of impact windows kicks in, not with a bang, but with everyday comfort.
You’ll notice it the first time your AC isn’t running nonstop in the middle of July. The laminated glass and ultra-tight seals don’t just keep water and debris out but also trap the cool air inside. It’s like giving your home a thermal shield. Many homeowners say their electric bills dropped by 20 to 30%, and those savings don’t come with a season. They last all year.
Step inside and close the door. Hear that? Exactly. Or rather, you don’t. Impact windows dramatically reduce outside noise. Street traffic, barking dogs, noisy neighbors and even passing planes are all muted.
Then there’s the sunlight. Florida’s sun is beautiful, but it can be brutal. UV rays sneak through standard windows and slowly bleach your flooring, artwork and furniture. Impact glass blocks up to 99% of those rays, which means the things you love inside your home stay vibrant longer.
Security is another benefit no one brags about, but everyone appreciates. A typical burglar wants in and out fast. Impact windows make that difficult as they don’t shatter like standard glass. Even after a hard hit, the glass stays in place. It buys you time, and more importantly, it makes your home a target that isn’t worth the effort.
And then there’s the moment you call your insurance agent. “Yes, we upgraded all our windows to hurricane-impact rated.” What follows might be music to your ears: lower premiums. Many Florida insurers offer meaningful discounts for homes with certified impact protection, giving you a long-term return on investment.
So while the storms may come and go, the benefits of impact windows remain: Quieter days, lower bills, better sleep and more peace of mind.
That’s the kind of protection you feel even when the sky is clear.
Impact Doors: Don’t Forget Your Entry Points
Windows aren’t the only weak points in your home during a storm. Your doors need protection, too. Impact doors work on the same principle as impact windows, but they’re designed for the unique challenges that doors face.
Standard doors can fail in multiple ways during hurricanes. The door itself might break, the frame might give way, or the locking mechanism might fail under pressure. Impact doors address all these potential failure points.
- Reinforced door construction: Impact doors are built with stronger materials throughout. The door panel, frame, and hardware are all designed to work together as a system.
- Advanced locking systems: These doors often feature multi-point locking systems that secure the door at multiple locations along the frame.
- Frame integration: The door frame is engineered to distribute impact forces across a wider area, preventing localized failures.
Choosing the Right Contractor
The quality of installation matters just as much as the quality of the windows themselves. A poorly installed impact window won’t perform when you need it most. Here’s what to look for in a contractor:
- Local experience: Contractors who work regularly in South Florida understand the unique challenges here. They know local building codes, permit requirements, and the specific weather conditions your windows will face.
- Proper licensing and insurance: This should be non-negotiable. Make sure your contractor has current licensing and carries adequate insurance. Ask to see the certificates.
- Product knowledge: Your contractor should be able to explain the differences between various window types and help you choose the right products for your specific needs and budget.
- Installation process: A good contractor will walk you through their installation process. They should explain how they’ll protect your home during installation and what to expect each day.
- Warranty information: Understand both the manufacturer’s warranty on the products and the contractor’s warranty on the installation work.
The Installation Process: What to Expect
Getting new impact windows installed isn’t as disruptive as you might think, but it’s helpful to know what to expect.
- Initial consultation: A good contractor will visit your home to assess your current windows and discuss your needs. They’ll take measurements and explain your options.
- Permitting: In most areas, window replacement requires permits. Your contractor should handle the process for you.
- Manufacturing time: Custom windows typically take 4-6 weeks to manufacture. This timeline can vary based on the complexity of your order and the manufacturer’s current backlog.
- Installation day: Most homes can have their windows replaced in 1-2 days. The installers will protect your floors and furniture, remove old windows and install the new ones.
Final Inspection: After installation, there should be a final walkthrough to ensure everything is working properly and you’re satisfied with the work.
Budgeting and Timing Your Impact Window Project
Impact windows are a serious investment, but they’re also one that pays off. From lower energy bills to increased home value, the benefits tend to grow over time. Understanding the full picture upfront can help you budget wisely and schedule your installation at the right time.
Expect impact windows to cost 40 to 60% more than standard replacements. The final price depends on the size and number of windows, the product line you choose and the complexity of the installation. Homes with custom-shaped windows, second-story access, or structural issues may see higher costs but also greater long-term value.
Many homeowners begin to see savings right away. In Florida’s climate, energy bills often drop noticeably after installation. Insurance providers may also offer policy discounts for homes with certified impact protection, which can add up to a few hundred dollars per year.
As for timing, hurricane season runs from June through November. That doesn’t mean you should wait until May to take action. The ideal time for installation is during the cooler months from October through April, when demand is lower and schedules are more flexible.
Here’s a smart timeline to follow:
- Start researching and requesting quotes during hurricane season. This gives you time to compare options and prepare without pressure.
- Schedule installation for the off-season. Crews are more available, and your home will be protected well before storms roll in.
If your windows are already damaged, don’t wait. Impact windows can be installed year-round, and delaying repairs could lead to further issues like water leaks, pests and increased energy loss.
A little planning now goes a long way later. And when the next storm warning appears, you’ll already be ready.
Your Next Steps
Protecting your Coconut Creek home with impact windows and doors is one of the smartest investments you can make. The benefits go far beyond just hurricane protection, though that alone makes them worthwhile in South Florida.
Start by getting quotes from several contractors. Ask lots of questions about the products they recommend and their installation process, and don’t just go with the lowest bid. Consider the contractor’s experience, the quality of their products and the comprehensiveness of their warranties.
Your home is probably your largest investment. Protecting it with quality impact windows and doors isn’t just about weathering the next storm but about creating a more comfortable, secure and valuable home for years to come.
The next hurricane season will come whether you’re ready or not. The question is whether your home will be prepared when it arrives.
Ready to get started? Visit Paradise Exteriors today to schedule your free consultation and take the first step toward real storm protection.
