Hurricane Season Prep – Why Impact Windows and Doors Are a Must in the Florida Keys

Hurricane Season Prep – Why Impact Windows and Doors Are a Must in the Florida Keys

Living in the Florida Keys means living with the beauty of ocean breezes, tropical sunshine—and the annual threat of hurricanes. For homeowners in Key West, preparing your property for storm season is not optional—it’s a necessity. And when it comes to protecting your investment, hurricane impact windows and doors are one of the smartest upgrades you can make.

At Liz Carpentry, we install code-compliant, impact-rated windows and doors that meet Florida’s toughest standards. Here's why these features matter—and what you need to know before the next storm rolls in.

What Are Impact Windows and Doors?

Hurricane-rated windows and doors are specially engineered to resist extreme wind pressure and flying debris. Unlike standard glass, impact-resistant systems are made from:

• Laminated glass (multiple layers of glass + a strong inner layer)
  
  
• Reinforced frames (aluminum, steel, or vinyl)
  
  
• Special anchoring systems to resist wind loads
  
  
• Compression seals and weatherstripping to prevent water intrusion
  
  

When properly installed, these systems stay intact even if the outer glass breaks, preventing wind from entering the home and causing catastrophic pressure changes.

Why Are They Essential in the Florida Keys?

We’re in a High-Velocity Hurricane Zone (HVHZ)

Monroe County—including Key West—is designated as an HVHZ. That means homes are required to meet stricter building codes, especially when replacing windows, doors, or making structural changes.

Without impact-rated openings or approved shutters, you could:

• Fail inspection
  
  
• Be denied permits
  
  
• Lose insurance coverage
  
  
• Face higher risk of damage in a storm

They Protect Your Home from More Than Just Wind

Impact windows and doors also:

• Prevent water intrusion during driving rain
  
  
• Block UV rays, protecting furniture and flooring from fading
  
  
• Deter break-ins, since laminated glass is difficult to penetrate
  
  

Reduce outside noise, making your home more peaceful year-round

3. Insurance Companies Favor Them

Many homeowners in the Florida Keys qualify for insurance discounts after installing impact-rated openings. In some cases, discounts can offset a significant portion of your upfront investment.

Real Risks Without Protection

Each hurricane season brings stories of avoidable damage—broken windows, blown-off doors, and expensive losses. Common consequences of skipping impact-rated upgrades include:

• Roof uplift from internal pressure after windows fail
  
  
• Interior water damage
  
  
• Mold growth
  
  
• Longer recovery and insurance claim times
  
  

When standard windows shatter, the structure becomes highly vulnerable. One broken window can lead to thousands—or even hundreds of thousands—in damage.

Real Feedback from Local Clients

“Liz Carpentry replaced every window in our home with impact-rated units. We rode out a major storm last year, and everything held beautifully.”

“The install was fast, clean, and you could feel the difference immediately. Quieter, cooler, and more secure.”

Our clients see the results—during hurricane season and all year long.

How Liz Carpentry Installs for Coastal Strength

As a licensed contractor with decades of experience in the Keys, we follow a strict process to ensure long-lasting performance.

Step 1 – Site Evaluation

We inspect your current windows and doors, measure each opening, and recommend the right product type based on location, structure, and local codes.

Step 2 – Product Selection

We source impact-rated systems from trusted brands that meet Florida’s HVHZ requirements and match your design aesthetic.

Step 3 – Proper Installation

Our team anchors each unit using approved fasteners and sealants, adds flashing, foam insulation, and finishes to prevent leaks and frame movement.

Step 4 – Final Inspection

We check operation, seal integrity, and alignment—and assist with any required inspection documentation for insurance or permitting.

Types of Impact Windows and Doors We Install

Windows:

• Single-hung and double-hung
  
  
• Casement and awning windows
  
  
• Picture and fixed glass
  
  
• Horizontal rollers and sliders
  
  

Doors:

• French doors
  
  
• Sliding glass doors
  
  
• Entry doors with decorative impact glass
  
  
• Commercial storefront doors
  
  

All options come in styles to complement both historic and modern homes.

Planning Your Upgrade

You don’t have to wait until your current windows fail. Many of our clients choose to install impact windows and doors during:

• Kitchen or bathroom remodels
  
  
• Home additions or second stories
  
  
• Exterior repainting or siding updates
  
  
• Post-storm repairs
  
  

We’ll help coordinate the project so your timeline, budget, and inspection needs are all accounted for.

Don’t Wait for the Next Storm

The next hurricane could be weeks or months away—but peace of mind can start today. Investing in impact-rated windows and doors is one of the smartest, most valuable improvements you can make to your Key West home.

Call Liz Carpentry at (305) 294-5861
Email: office@lizcarpentry.com
Find us on Google Maps

Get protected. Stay comfortable. Build stronger.