Learn about impact doors and the benefits of installing them.
Doors are the entryway to our homes. They provide security, curb appeal, and can even increase a home’s value. Impact doors are similar to standard iron doors given the fact they offer security and protect our home from exterior elements, but they are made differently.
Impact doors are built with different materials and serve different purposes. An impact door is made to withstand extreme weather conditions, up to Category 5 force winds. Standard doors are not made to resist hurricane force winds up to 156 mph. In this article, we’ll explain what impact doors are, the benefits of installing impact doors, and how to choose the right impact door for your home.
What are Impact Doors?
Impact doors are specially made to withstand hurricane force winds and flying debris. They are typically more common in areas where hurricanes are prevalent, like Florida and Texas.
Impact doors are made with stronger materials like fiberglass skins and built with more durable glass and steel than regular doors. Impact doors give homes added protection and a number of other benefits, including increasing property value.
Impact Ratings
An impact rating is a weighted sum of indicators that collectively cover multiple dimensions of impact, according to Impact Frontiers. In order to be classified as an impact-rated door, it must pass the High Velocity Hurricane Zone (HVHZ) Test. High Velocity Hurricane Zones are a part of Florida Building Codes. If you’re a resident of Miami/Dade, Broward County, or Coastal Palm Beach County, you live in a HVHZ.
Impact Doors vs Standard Front Doors
Standard doors are typically made from wood, fiberglass, aluminum, and vinyl. Wood and fiberglass are two of the most common materials used to make doors. Standard doors are also cheaper than impact doors, but that’s not to say impact doors aren’t worth the investment.
Impact doors can withstand strong winds and heavy rains. Plus, they require more testing than standard doors. Impact doors are made of heavier shatterproof glass and frames to endure more impact. They’re also great for improving home security, weather protection, and absorbing internal and external noise.
Benefits of Impact Doors
Impact doors have a number of benefits that are especially attractive to homeowners, from adding property value to giving an added layer of security. Here are a few reasons why installing impact doors would be worthwhile:
- Protection from strong winds/hurricanes
- Protection from debris
- Weather insulation
- Increase home value
- Improve home security
How to Choose the Right Impact Door
When choosing the best impact door for your home, consider the building codes and requirements in your area. Once you’ve found a hurricane door that meets the standards in your area, consider what is most important to you as a homeowner. Do you want to add resale value to your home? Is saving on homeowners insurance important to you? Florida residents can save on their homeowners insurance when they have impact doors installed.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between impact and non-impact doors?
Impact doors are made from storm-resistant materials like fiberglass skins and polyurethane foam cores. Impact doors can absorb flying debris up to 200 mph. Non-impact doors or standard doors are not made with the same materials.
How do you know if a door is impact rated?
All impact-rated doors in Florida have a Florida Approval Number, though the approval number doesn’t necessarily mean the door is impact-rated. You can also have your home professionally inspected to determine whether or not you have impact-rated doors.
Do I need an impact-rated door?
It really depends on where you live. If you live in an area prone to hurricanes like Florida, you might be required to have an impact-rated door. If you live in a low-risk area where hurricanes are not common, an impact door is not necessary.
How does the installation process for an impact door work?
It’s best to hire a professional to install an impact door to make sure the installation is done to manufacturer standards. At Clark Hall, our iron doors can be crafted to meet HVHZ standards.
What are the customization options when choosing an impact door?
Contact us for a free design consultation to explore all of our customization options for impact doors. Explore our before and afters to see the quality of work we do at Clark Hall.
