South Florida homeowners know that preparing for hurricane season isn’t optional; it’s essential. When storms roll through Delray Beach, Pompano Beach, Coral Springs, or Lighthouse Point, your windows and doors are the first line of defense between your home and the elements.
At Head Construction Corp, we often get one question more than any other:
“Should I invest in impact windows or stick with hurricane shutters?”
Both options are common in Florida homes, and each has pros and cons. But the right choice depends on your home, budget, lifestyle, and long-term goals.
In this guide, we’ll break down the key differences between impact windows and hurricane shutters, from cost and safety to convenience and energy efficiency, so you can protect your property with confidence.
Why Hurricane Protection is Essential in South Florida
Every year, hurricanes and tropical storms sweep across Florida’s coastline, and Broward and Palm Beach Counties are in high-risk wind zones.
Florida Building Codes require homes to meet strict standards for storm protection, particularly for openings like windows and doors.
Beyond code compliance, unprotected windows can lead to:
- Catastrophic pressure buildup inside your home
- Water intrusion and mold
- Dangerous flying glass and debris
- Thousands of dollars in insurance claims or uninsured damage
Hurricane protection isn’t just about following the law; it’s about safeguarding your home, family, and investment.
What Are Impact Windows?
Impact windows are specially engineered, shatter-resistant glass units built to withstand high-velocity winds and airborne debris. They’re constructed with:
- A laminated inner layer (often polyvinyl butyral or PVB)
- Dual glass panes sealed for strength
- Reinforced frames to resist structural shifting
They look just like regular windows, but they’re incredibly durable, and they stay in place permanently, offering year-round benefits like UV protection and energy efficiency.
At Head Construction Corp, we install Miami-Dade and Florida Building Code–approved impact windows across Delray Beach and surrounding cities.
What Are Hurricane Shutters?
Hurricane shutters are protective coverings that go over your existing windows and doors. They come in a few popular styles:
- Accordion shutters (fold and unfold manually or by crank)
- Roll-down shutters (operated manually or motorized)
- Panel shutters (aluminum or polycarbonate sheets installed during storm season)
Shutters are a budget-friendly option, but they require manual effort to deploy and store when not in use. They also provide no insulation or noise reduction during everyday use.
Cost Comparison: Impact Windows vs. Hurricane Shutters
One of the biggest deciding factors for many homeowners is cost, both up front and long term.
| Feature | Impact Windows | Hurricane Shutters |
| Installation Cost | $$$ (Higher initial investment) | $$ (Lower up-front cost) |
| Maintenance | Minimal | Seasonal maintenance, manual operation |
| Insurance Discounts | Yes (larger long-term savings) | Yes (but typically smaller) |
| Energy Efficiency | High (year-round savings) | None |
Real Example from Delray Beach:
A 2,000 sq. ft. home replacing all windows with impact-rated models may cost $15,000–$25,000, depending on materials and size. In contrast, shutters could cost $6,000–$10,000, but offer no energy efficiency and limited resale appeal.
Which Offers Better Hurricane Protection?
From a storm-resistance standpoint, both solutions meet Florida’s wind and debris codes if installed correctly. However:
- Impact windows remain in place 24/7, so you’re always protected, even if you’re not home.
- Shutters must be manually deployed before a storm, which may not be possible during sudden events or if you’re out of town.
Impact windows are less likely to fail due to human error. Plus, they’re bonded to your home’s structure, not just screwed on temporarily like panel shutters.
Expert Insight:
We’ve seen properties in Deerfield Beach where manual shutters were left unused or improperly secured, leading to shattered windows and thousands in water damage. Impact windows don’t leave room for that kind of mistake.
Energy Efficiency & Everyday Use
Here’s where impact windows pull ahead:
Impact Windows:
- Reduce solar heat gain (lower energy bills)
- Block UV rays that fade furniture and floors
- Lower outside noise
- Improve your home’s resale value
- Offer peace of mind even during non-hurricane months
Shutters:
- Offer no year-round benefit
- Can look bulky or industrial when permanently attached
- Must be stored and maintained
If you want both storm protection and daily comfort, impact windows are the clear winner.
Maintenance & Lifespan
Impact windows are essentially set-it-and-forget-it.
- Wipe down occasionally
- Check seals annually
- No storing, lifting, or installation before a storm
Shutters, however, require:
- Cleaning and lubrication (especially in salt-air environments like Pompano Beach)
- Manual setup or motor maintenance
- Inspection for corrosion or hardware failure
Which Is Right for You? [Use Cases by Property Type]
Let’s break this down based on your lifestyle and home type:
Full-Time Homeowners
→ Choose Impact Windows
Long-term comfort, no seasonal setup, and better energy efficiency.
Seasonal/Vacation Property Owners
→ Shutters May Be Enough
Budget-friendly and compliant — but only if you have someone to deploy them in your absence.
Historic or Luxury Homes
→ Impact Windows with Custom Framing
Preserve aesthetics while meeting storm code.
Elderly Homeowners or Busy Professionals
→ Impact Windows for Safety & Convenience
Avoid the physical strain or time needed to prepare with shutters.
Final Verdict: Our Expert Recommendation
At Head Construction Corp, we install both systems, and we know they both serve a purpose.
But for the majority of South Florida homeowners, we recommend impact windows for their:
Built-in storm protection
Energy and insurance savings
Boost in home value
Clean appearance
Maintenance-free peace of mind
If you’re investing in your home for the long term or you simply want to eliminate the hassle of storm prep, impact windows are worth every dollar.
Ready to Hurricane-Proof Your Home?
At Head Construction Corp, we proudly serve homeowners across:
Delray Beach
Deerfield Beach
Coral Springs
Lighthouse Point
Parkland
Pompano Beach
We offer expert installation, permit assistance, and free on-site consultations for impact windows, doors, and storm solutions tailored to your home.
Contact us today for a no-obligation quote and let’s protect your property the right way, before the next storm rolls in.
FAQs: Impact Windows vs. Shutters
Can I use both impact windows and shutters?
Yes. Some homeowners install both for extra protection, but impact windows alone usually meet code and offer 24/7 defense.
Are impact windows required by law in Florida?
In high-risk zones like Broward County, yes, for new builds or major renovations. Older homes need either shutters or impact-rated windows for compliance.
Do impact windows lower insurance costs?
Yes. Most insurers offer wind mitigation discounts if you install impact windows and get a certified inspection report.
How long does installation take?
Most homes take 3–5 days to install. Add 2–4 weeks for permits and product delivery.
Can I install impact windows in HOA or historic homes?
Yes, but you’ll need HOA approval or style matching. We handle permits and design compliance for you.