Impact Windows vs. Hurricane Shutters: Which Is Better for Florida Homes?
- Jansen Shutters & Specialties
- Oct 14
- 3 min read
Florida’s beauty comes with a challenge, protecting your home from some of the most powerful storms in the country. Along the Gulf Coast, where hurricanes can shift from distant threats to imminent dangers in a matter of days, homeowners often ask us one of the most important questions in storm protection:
Impact windows vs. hurricane shutters: Which is better for Florida homes?
For many, it comes down to a choice between impact windows and hurricane shutters. Both offer serious protection, but they work in different ways, with unique benefits, costs, and considerations. Knowing the difference can help you choose a solution that fits your home, your lifestyle, and your budget, before the next storm season arrives.
The Case for Impact Windows
Impact windows are a year-round defense. Built with laminated glass and reinforced frames, they can withstand hurricane-force winds and the large-missile impact tests required in Florida’s High Velocity Hurricane Zones (HVHZ). Once installed, they’re always ready, no deployment necessary.
Benefits:
Always “on” protection, no last-minute prep
Excellent insulation and noise reduction
Can increase home value and curb appeal
May qualify for significant insurance discounts
Considerations:
Higher upfront cost compared to shutters
Full window replacement may be required for installation
The Case for Hurricane Shutters
Hurricane shutters remain one of the most popular and cost-effective ways to protect Florida homes. From roll-down motorized shutters to stylish Bahama shutters, the options are versatile, customizable, and can be tailored to your home’s architecture.
Benefits:
Lower initial investment compared to impact windows
Wide variety of designs, including motorized options for quick deployment
Easy to add to an existing home without full window replacement
Considerations:
Manual shutters require hands-on installation before each storm
Some styles may require seasonal maintenance
Which Should You Choose?
For some homeowners, the right choice is both, impact windows for critical areas like bedrooms and living spaces, paired with shutters or automated screens for lanais, patios, and large glass expanses. This combination provides full-property protection while balancing aesthetics, budget, and ease of use.
Florida Building Code requires all glazed openings in HVHZ areas to have approved protection, and both impact windows and hurricane shutters can meet these standards when installed by a certified expert.
Our Recommendation for Gulf Coast Homeowners
When considering impact windows vs. hurricane shutters, think about how you live in your home. If you want 24/7 protection with minimal effort, impact windows are unmatched. If you’re looking for a more budget-friendly solution or want design flexibility, shutters, especially motorized roll-downs, are an excellent choice.
Protect What Matters, Your Way
At Jansen Shutters & Specialties (JSS), we design, install, and maintain impact-rated products that blend safety, style, and Florida Building Code compliance. Whether you choose impact windows, shutters, or a combination, we’ll tailor your hurricane protection to your home’s unique needs.
Here's how you can join us in making a difference right here in our community:
Volunteer: Sign up for free training and join our volunteer force.
Request Assistance: If your home or business requires storm cleanup support, connect directly with our volunteer crews.
Become a Sponsor: Local businesses and organizations are invited to sponsor and support community resilience.
Together, we are stronger. Be proactive, Be prepared, and Be StormStrong.
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