HURRICANE IMPACT DOOR INSTALLATION
BENEFITS OF INSTALLING HURRICANE-RESISTANT IMPACT DOORS
Exterior doors in South Florida must meet the same requirements as impact windows and are subjected to the same “missile tests” that measure their strength and resistance. These missile tests shoot projectiles of different sizes and weights while simulating the speed of objects propelled against solid objects during hurricanes and tropical storms.
Impact doors and windows that are less than 30 feet off the ground must meet the “large missile” test. The “large missle” test, is when two nine-pound 2×4 lumber “missiles” are shot from 50 feet at 34 mph, or 50 feet per second (fps). Doors (and windows) that don’t break, bend, or crack during these tests are approved for high-velocity hurricane zones like Miami-Dade and Broward Counties.
They will also keep out water and stand up to the extremely low air pressure that feeds hurricane strength. And like impact windows, they bring added bonuses:
- Excellent soundproofing
- Insulation against heat
- Protection from burglars
The Process of Installing Exterior Hurricane-Resistant Doors
Like impact windows, impact doors are much heavier than the standard entry or exterior door. Residential front doors are made from fiberglass and wood and reinforced with composite materials including polyurethane foam. Hurricane-resistant doors are held in place with heavy-duty aluminum or vinyl frames, hinges, gaskets, aluminum thresholds. Neoprene seals or silicone weatherstrips keep the rain out.
The windows fixed in them are just as strong, as it’s the same missile-tested glass we also use for glass doors such as sliding doors and French doors. Both are popular options for patio entrances.
Installing a door is a lot harder than installing a window, especially with the additional weight of an impact door. Just like windows, impact doors must be installed exactly to manufacturer standards to get the expected performance and protection. That is why you should consider hiring a professional to get the job done properly.
Sturdy Impact Door With Curb Appeal
In the early days, hurricane-resistant impact doors were plain at best, and downright unattractive at worst. A lot has changed since then, and we are pleased to offer impact doors that are beautifully designed. We distribute and install these types of impact doors:
- Commercial Outswing Doors
These open from the left to right outside of a building.
- Commercial Outswing Door with Transom
Have a fixed window-like addition above the doors where a business name, address and/or logo can be added.
- French Doors
Classic two-panel doors and is a popular option for doors that lead to patios. Like French windows, each door can be made of a large piece of glass or several smaller ones.
- Outswing Entrance Door
The most popular style for homes. These are usually used for residential homes, although small businesses might use them as well.
- Sliding Glass Doors
A popular option for entrance from the patio into the home.
Except for the outswing entrance door, these doors are all made from the strongest impact glass. Curious to find out more? Reach out to us today!
REVIEWS
