Are Impact Resistant Windows Required In Florida

The easy answer is that according to florida building code fbc all windows and doors must be protected if the building structure is within one mile of the coast where wind speed is in excess of 110 mph.

Are impact resistant windows required in florida.

Installation requirements for all windows and doors. All replacement windows and doors must comply with the minimum 130 miles per hour wind speed resistance specification. As always consult your local laws and country requirements when upgrading your windows. If you install impact protection shutters on your replacement door and window it must have an approval number from the state of florida and an evaluation report from the manufacturer.

High impact windows are not required in the entire state of florida but are required in coastal areas with some counties being more strict than others. This also applies to sliding doors and windows. The reason is that local building codes determine the requirements as to whether impact windows and doors are required in a certain application. All building envelope projects sold in florida must be approved by the florida product approval program.

The florida building code fbc requires windows to be impact resistant or protected if located within one mile of the coast where the wind speed is 110 mph or greater. The question of whether hurricane windows and doors are required in florida is not a simple answer. In wbdr one mile of the coast where ultimate design winds are 130 mph or greater and areas where the ultimate design wind speed is 140 mph or greater exterior glazing of doors and windows must be impact resistant or protected. It requires windows to be impact resistant or protected by a shutter if the structure is located within one mile of the coast where the wind speed is 100 mph or greater.

Of course even if your home is not located in this area this may be a good idea.