Why Door Choice Matters in South Florida

South Florida is a unique beast. Between hurricanes, high humidity, and scorching heat, your doors take a beating. Choosing the wrong type isn’t just a bad decision—it’s a costly one. Imagine this: a storm hits, your non-impact door fails, and now you’re dealing with water damage, shattered glass, and insurance headaches.

But it’s not just about hurricanes. Your door also needs to:

• Protect against intruders.
• Keep your energy bills in check.
• Withstand the elements year-round.

Let’s break down the differences and see why hurricane-rated doors are a must-have for South Florida homeowners.

What Are Hurricane-Rated Doors?

Hurricane-rated doors, also called impact doors, are built to withstand extreme weather conditions. Think of them as the bodyguards of the door world. These doors are designed to survive high winds, flying debris, and pressure changes during a hurricane. Here’s how they stand out:

Key Features of Hurricane-Rated Doors

1. Laminated Impact Glass: When hit, the glass cracks but stays intact, preventing debris from entering your home.
2. Reinforced Frames: Built with materials like aluminum, steel, or heavy-duty wood to handle extreme pressure.
3. Miami-Dade Certification: Tested and approved to meet the toughest building codes in the country.

In short, these doors are built for battle.

What Are Non-Impact Doors?

Non-impact doors are your standard doors. They look nice and get the job done—until a hurricane shows up. These doors are typically made with regular glass and standard frames, which means they’re not designed to handle extreme weather.



Key Features of Non-Impact Doors

1. Basic Glass Panels: Shatters on impact, which can be dangerous and costly.
2. Standard Frames: Can warp, crack, or fail under high pressure.
3. No Certification: Not tested to withstand hurricanes or flying debris.

While non-impact doors are fine for areas without extreme weather, they’re a risky choice for South Florida.

Head-to-Head: Hurricane-Rated vs. Non-Impact Doors

Let’s get into the nitty-gritty. Here’s how these doors compare in the areas that matter most.

1. Hurricane Protection

• Hurricane-Rated Doors: Withstand winds up to 200 mph and impacts from debris. They’re your ultimate shield during a storm.
• Non-Impact Doors: Offer no protection. A single flying object can shatter the glass and compromise your home.

Winner: Hurricane-rated doors.

2. Security

• Hurricane-Rated Doors: Multi-point locks and reinforced frames make them nearly impossible to break into.
• Non-Impact Doors: Standard locks and frames are easier to breach.

Winner: Hurricane-rated doors.

3. Energy Efficiency

• Hurricane-Rated Doors: Insulated glass and frames help reduce energy costs by keeping your home cooler.
• Non-Impact Doors: Limited insulation, which can lead to higher energy bills.

Winner: Hurricane-rated doors.

4. Aesthetics

• Hurricane-Rated Doors: Available in a variety of styles, from modern to traditional. You don’t have to sacrifice looks for safety.
• Non-Impact Doors: Wider selection of styles, but lack the added benefits of impact doors.

Winner: Tie. Both offer customizable options depending on your needs.

5. Cost

• Hurricane-Rated Doors: Higher upfront cost but save you money in repairs, insurance, and energy bills over time.
• Non-Impact Doors: Cheaper upfront, but long-term costs add up if a storm hits or energy bills skyrocket.

Winner: Hurricane-rated doors for long-term value.

Why Hurricane-Rated Doors Are Worth It

Let’s cut to the chase: If you live in South Florida, impact doors aren’t a luxury—they’re a necessity. Here’s why:



1. Peace of Mind: Knowing your home is protected during a storm is priceless. Hurricane-rated doors keep your family safe and your home intact.
2. Lower Insurance Premiums: Many insurance companies offer discounts for homes with impact-rated doors. Over time, this can offset the initial cost.
3. Increased Home Value: Buyers in South Florida know the value of impact doors. Installing them makes your home more attractive and easier to sell.
4. Year-Round Benefits: Impact doors don’t just shine during hurricane season. They also improve energy efficiency, reduce outside noise and enhance home security.

What to Look for in Hurricane-Rated Doors

Not all impact doors are created equal. Here’s what you should prioritize:

1. Certification: Look for Miami-Dade or Florida Building Code (FBC) approval.
2. Material: Choose durable options like fiberglass, steel, or reinforced aluminum.
3. Style: Impact doors come in various designs—French, sliding, and more. Pick one that fits your home’s vibe.
4. Professional Installation: A poorly installed door is as bad as no door. Work with certified experts.

When Are Non-Impact Doors a Viable Option?

There are scenarios where non-impact doors might work:

• Interior Doors: No need for hurricane-rated features inside your home.
• Non-Hurricane Zones: If you live in a rare South Florida area outside hurricane paths, non-impact doors may suffice.

Pro Tip: Even if you use non-impact doors, pair them with storm shutters for extra protection.

The Cost Breakdown

Here’s the real talk: Hurricane-rated doors cost more upfront. But consider this:

1. Repairs from a broken non-impact door can run you thousands of dollars.
2. Lower insurance premiums and energy savings make impact doors a smarter long-term investment.

Think of it this way: Would you rather pay for protection now or pay for repairs later?

Why Choose Doors Galour for Your Impact Doors?

At Doors Galour, we’ve spent over 40 years helping South Florida homeowners upgrade their homes with impact-rated doors. From modern designs to classic styles, we offer doors that protect your home without compromising on looks.

What Sets Us Apart?

1. Miami-Dade Certified Options: Built to handle the toughest conditions.
2. Custom Designs: Choose from a wide variety of styles and finishes.
3. Expert Installation: Our team ensures your door is installed to perfection.

Your Door, Your Choice

When it comes to hurricane-rated vs. non-impact doors, the choice is clear for South Florida homeowners. Impact doors offer the safety, durability, and value your home needs to thrive in this challenging environment.

Ready to make the switch? Let Doors Galour help you protect your home with doors that work as hard as you do. Get your free quote today and take the first step toward a safer, smarter home.

Frequently Asked Questions