Hurricane season in Florida means many homeowners begin to question the strength and safety of their windows and doors. One of the most common questions we receive is related to sliding glass doors.
These doors are a favorite among Floridians because they create functional access to patios and pools and help entire homes feel more open. However, when storm season comes around, many homeowners become concerned that large glass areas are a weak point in their homes.
Not all sliding glass doors are equal when it comes to hurricanes. Older doors, outdated glass, and poor installation can lead to vulnerabilities during storm season. However, by installing impact sliding glass doors, homeowners can significantly increase their protection against hurricane-force winds and flying debris.
Today we’re going to answer some common questions about sliding glass doors and hurricane safety. By knowing the facts, homeowners can make more informed decisions about their homes and how best to prepare for storm season.
Are Sliding Glass Doors Vulnerable During Hurricanes?
Yes, standard sliding glass doors can be vulnerable during hurricane season. The main issue is that most sliding glass doors have large areas of single glass. Hurricane-force winds can exert intense pressure on windows and doors, while flying debris can travel at extremely high speeds.
If a regular glass window were to break during a storm, it creates even more problems for the home. When wind enters a home through a broken window, it can create pressure differences that may contribute to roof failure. Broken windows can also allow rain and debris into the home and cause additional windows to fail.
Typically, older sliding glass doors are at the most risk. Older doors are more likely to have weaker frames, thinner glass, and be missing important updates. Without proper upkeep or upgrades, older sliding glass doors can pose safety risks as hurricane season approaches.
Do Hurricane Sliding Glass Doors Require Special Hardware?
Impact sliding glass doors can offer homeowners much more protection during hurricane season. These doors are designed with impact glass and reinforced frames to help reduce risk during storms.
Impact glass has multiple layers of laminated glass that are bonded together. High-grade interlayers help prevent the glass from shattering when struck by flying debris.
Impact sliding glass doors also go through testing to ensure they can help protect homes during hurricanes. These doors are designed to hold up better against:
- Wind pressure
- Debris
- Water
- Structural stress
Of course, there is always a chance that glass can crack during a storm. However, the point-of-impact glass is designed to maintain the door’s integrity so that wind and debris don’t cause catastrophic damage to the home.
Because of this added protection, many areas of Florida even require homeowners to have hurricane-proof sliding glass doors.
How Do I Know If My Sliding Glass Doors Are Impact-Rated?
If you live in South Florida or other hurricane-prone areas of the state, there is a chance that your home may require impact windows.
However, just because a home was built in one of these areas does not necessarily mean the current sliding glass doors are impact rated. Settlement, updates, and renovations can change the integrity of any door over time.
If you are ever concerned about your home or want to know for sure, consider having a professional come out and inspect your current doors.
Can Hurricane Shutters Be Used With Sliding Glass Doors?
Hurricane Shutters can help protect sliding glass doors during storms. Hurricane shutters are an alternative solution that some homeowners prefer.
The most common hurricane shutters include:
- Accordion shutters
- Roll-down shutters
- Removable panels
While shutters can provide some level of protection for your sliding glass doors. Most shutter systems require manual installation before a storm.
If done correctly, hurricane shutters can help provide some protection for your home. However, Impact Sliding Glass Doors provide permanent protection that is built into the door itself.
Should I Install Hurricane Screens on My Sliding Glass Doors?
Hurricane impact windows and doors can help homeowners during storm season in many ways. While impact windows help greatly during storms, they also provide many benefits year-round.
Benefits of installing impact sliding glass doors include:
- Noise reduction
- Energy efficiency
- Home security
- UV protection
- Increased home value
If you’re interested in learning more about how impact windows can benefit your home, contact Absolute Window LLC today to schedule a free consultation. We offer custom impact windows and doors designed to protect Florida homes from hurricanes and storms. By installing impact windows, you never know what benefits you could be gaining.
