What Are Impact Resistant Doors and Windows?
Impact resistant windows and doors are specially engineered products designed to withstand the high winds and flying debris associated with hurricane conditions. They are constructed with laminated glass bonded to a polymer interlayer, and heavy-duty frames that provide structural integrity under extreme wind pressure. Unlike standard windows that shatter on impact and leave the building envelope compromised during a storm, impact products are designed to remain intact, maintaining the pressure barrier of the building even after a direct hit.
In Florida, impact resistant products are a preferred alternative to traditional hurricane shutters on many properties. They provide year-round protection without requiring the installation and removal of panels before and after each storm event. Beyond storm protection, impact windows and doors provide meaningful benefits in terms of noise reduction, UV filtering, improved energy efficiency, and enhanced security against forced entry while supporting the performance of HVAC services.
Impact product installation, completed as part of general contracting services, requires careful attention to structural opening preparation, proper anchorage into the wall system, and correct sealing to maintain both weather tightness and rated performance. RayPro’s installation team is experienced in the specific requirements of impact product installation in South Florida and ensures every installation meets applicable Florida Product Approval and local building code requirements.
Impact resistant window and door installation may be appropriate for:
- Homeowners seeking to replace traditional hurricane shutters with a permanent, low-maintenance storm protection solution
- Properties in Palm Beach County's coastal high-velocity hurricane zones where wind and impact resistance requirements are most stringent
- Homeowners seeking to reduce energy costs through the improved insulation performance of impact rated glass
- Commercial property owners upgrading building envelope protection on occupied buildings

What to Expect
- RayPro begins with a site assessment to evaluate existing openings, structural conditions, and the specific performance requirements relevant to your property's location and applicable building code jurisdiction.
- We present product options that meet Florida Product Approval requirements for your location, covering different glass types, frame materials, and profile options.
- A written proposal is provided before any work begins, covering products, installation scope, timeline, and cost.
- Our installation team removes existing windows or doors, prepares each opening to the correct specification, and installs impact products with the required anchorage and sealing throughout.
- All work is permitted and inspected in compliance with local building requirements.
- A final walkthrough confirms all installations operate correctly, are properly sealed, and meet the agreed specification.
How Impact Windows and Doors May Help You
- Impact resistant products may significantly reduce the risk of building envelope breach during a hurricane, which is one of the primary causes of severe interior damage during major storm events in South Florida.
- Many Florida insurance companies offer premium discounts for homes with qualifying impact installations, which may partially offset the cost of the investment over time.
- Impact laminated glass filters UV radiation, which may reduce fading of interior furnishings, flooring, and artwork compared to standard glass.
- The insulation performance of impact glass may contribute to lower cooling energy costs in South Florida's warm climate compared to single-pane or standard double-pane windows.
- Impact products provide improved forced entry resistance compared to standard windows, adding a layer of year-round security to your property.
Impact Window and Door Installation at RayPro
RayPro impact product installations are completed to the standard that South Florida’s building code and the products themselves require. The performance of an impact window or door system is only as good as its installation, and correct anchorage, sealing, and structural integration are essential for the products to perform as rated when needed. Our team understands these requirements and applies them on every project. We work with a range of impact product manufacturers and can help you navigate the options available across different price points and performance ratings.
Common Questions About Impact Windows and Doors
What is the difference between impact windows and hurricane shutters?
Hurricane shutters are panels installed over existing windows before a storm and removed afterward. Impact windows replace the existing window entirely and provide permanent, always-active storm protection without any preparatory action required. Impact windows also provide year-round benefits in energy efficiency, UV protection, and security that traditional shutters do not offer, making them a more comprehensive long-term investment.
How much do impact windows cost in Palm Beach County?
Yes. Impact windows and doors meeting the applicable Florida Product Approval requirements for your specific wind zone are an accepted alternative to hurricane shutters. Once qualifying impact products are installed throughout a home, shutter installation is no longer required before storm events.
Do impact windows eliminate the need for hurricane shutters?
Yes. Impact windows and doors meeting the applicable Florida Product Approval requirements for your specific wind zone are an accepted alternative to hurricane shutters. Once qualifying impact products are installed throughout a home, shutter installation is no longer required before storm events.
How long does impact window installation take?
Timeline depends on the number of openings and the scope of the project. A typical residential construction impact window installation covering a full home can often be completed within two to five days depending on the scope. RayPro provides a project-specific timeline in every proposal.
Do impact windows require a permit in Palm Beach County?
Yes. Impact window and door installation requires building permits in Palm Beach County, and all products must carry appropriate Florida Product Approval for the specific wind zone of the installation location. RayPro manages all permitting requirements and product compliance as part of the installation scope.
Ready to Protect Your Property Year-Round?
Contact RayPro today to arrange a free assessment and find out what impact window and door solution is right for your Palm Beach County property.