How to Prove a Door is Impact Rated

When it comes to protecting your home from a hurricane, impact rated doors are a necessity. Unlike regular doors, these are made with laminated glass that will not break like normal glass. Similarly, their frames and hinges are also reinforced, which means the door will keep its shape even under heavy blows. Not only will they protect your home from the elements, but they can also improve energy efficiency.

You may be wondering how an impact-rated door works. It’s actually a bit tricky to figure out, but the most basic explanation is that these doors are designed to survive heavy winds. They are constructed with fiberglass skins and a polyurethane core, which provides them with more resistance than standard doors.

How to Prove a Door is Impact Rated

Impact rated doors are also tested for strength and endurance. In some areas, such as Miami-Dade, impact doors must be tested by launching 2×4 lumber at 50 feet per second. While these are standard tests, it’s not unusual for doors to be tested in wind tunnel labs to simulate hurricane-force winds in Boca Raton Impact Doors. This test shows that the door can withstand sustained wind speeds of up to 156 mph.

These doors are also more expensive than average doors, thanks to the extra testing and materials they’re made from. However, the costs are worth it in the long run. Aside from saving you from damage, an impact rated door can actually increase the value of your home. Many insurance companies are willing to discount the cost of an impact rated window or door if it can show that it can withstand a hurricane. Moreover, these types of products are a breeze to install. Fortunately, most impact rated products come with a warranty.

To figure out the best impact rated door for your home, you’ll need to do some research and find the most reliable manufacturers in your area. Fortunately, there are several to choose from. Whether you are looking for a front door or a garage door, there is a style for you. And since these doors are tested in wind tunnels, you’ll have peace of mind that you and your loved ones are safe.

There are a few other factors you should take into account before you make a final decision. For one, you should consider the size of the door. For example, you can only fit an impact rated garage door into a 3″ diameter hole. If you do the math, that’s about the equivalent of installing a new door every six years. Another factor to consider is your budget. Luckily, there are many high-quality, inexpensive doors on the market.

Finally, you’ll want to make sure you test your impact rated window for energy ratings and water intrusion. These tests are a must in SW Florida, but other areas of the state also require them. Having these features can help your home maintain an even temperature, which is an important consideration when dealing with storms.

Although impact rated doors and windows aren’t a substitute for a strong and sturdy home, they do provide the protection you need. So if you’re a homeowner or potential buyer, you can feel confident in your decision.