How to Reinforce Your Windows and Doors for Hurricane Season
Living in Florida means beautiful beaches, warm weather—and the reality of hurricane season every year from June 1st to November 30th. With powerful winds, flying debris, and heavy rainfall, hurricanes can cause serious damage to your home in just minutes. That’s why homeowners must take proactive steps to prepare, especially when it comes to reinforcing windows and doors.
In this guide, you’ll learn how to properly protect your windows and doors, understand the role of structural reinforcements like hurricane clips, and discover why a Wind Mitigation Inspection can save you money—and possibly your roof.
Why Windows and Doors Are So Vulnerable
During a hurricane, wind pressure builds around your home. If it finds a weak spot—like an unprotected window or an old door—it can break in and create internal pressure that lifts the roof or collapses walls.
This is why securing all openings is essential. When windows or doors fail, the storm doesn’t just damage the opening—it can lead to total structural failure.
Protect your windows with impact shutters
Step 1: Reinforce Windows With Shutters or Impact Glass
The first step to hurricane protection is making sure your windows are built to withstand high winds and flying debris. Here are your options:
Hurricane Shutters
Installing hurricane shutters is one of the most effective ways to protect standard windows. These shutters are specifically engineered to resist wind-borne debris and meet Florida Building Code requirements.
Popular types include:
Accordion shutters: Fold to the sides of windows and pull closed when needed. They're easy to operate and permanently installed.
Roll-down shutters: Provide excellent protection and can be motorized or manual. These are great for both windows and sliding glass doors.
Storm panel shutters: Removable and made of aluminum or clear polycarbonate. These are more affordable but take time to install.
Bahama shutters: Mounted above the window and propped open for shade. They close down and lock during a storm.
When installed correctly, all of these shutters can withstand Category 5 hurricane conditions.
Impact-Resistant Windows
Impact windows are made from laminated glass that’s bonded with a strong, clear interlayer. Even if struck by debris, the glass may crack but stay together—keeping wind and water out.
These windows:
Meet Florida’s strict building codes
Provide 24/7 protection (no installation before a storm)
Increase energy efficiency
Can lower home insurance premiums
Though the upfront cost is higher, the long-term value—especially in Florida—is undeniable.
Step 2: Use Window Film as Extra Support
Window film isn’t a replacement for shutters or impact glass, but it can add another layer of safety. Designed to hold shattered glass together, storm-rated films can reduce the risk of injury from flying shards.
However, keep in mind:
Film won’t stop debris from entering your home
It works best in combination with other protection methods
It may not qualify for insurance discounts
If you already have standard glass windows, professionally installed window film can buy you time and reduce damage during a storm. Click here and buy at Amazon
Step 3: Reinforce Exterior Doors and Sliding Glass Doors
Doors are just as important as windows during a hurricane. If they fail, wind can rush in and cause devastating internal pressure. Here’s how to reinforce them:
Strengthen Door Hardware
Start by inspecting and upgrading:
Hinges (use 3-inch screws into wall framing)
Deadbolt locks (1-inch throw minimum)
Strike plates (secure with 3-inch screws)
Door frames (solid wood or steel are best)
For double-entry doors, install flush bolts or heavy-duty slide bolts at the top and bottom of the inactive door to keep it locked into the frame.
Install Hurricane-Rated Doors
If your entry doors are old, consider replacing them with hurricane-rated models. These are made of:
Fiberglass
Steel
Reinforced wood cores
They’re tested to meet Florida’s wind and impact standards and often come with better seals and hardware.
Secure Sliding Glass Doors
Sliding doors are vulnerable because they often contain large glass panels and weak locks. Reinforce them with:
Impact-resistant glass or shutters
Security bars placed in the track
Upgraded multi-point locking systems
Make sure your sliding door is installed with a reinforced track and frame to reduce the risk of it blowing out during high winds.
Step 4: Don’t Forget the Garage Door
Your garage door can span a wide opening—and if it fails, it creates a huge breach in your home's envelope. This is one of the most common points of failure during a hurricane.
How to reinforce it:
Install a garage door brace kit with vertical supports
Replace with a hurricane-rated garage door tested for wind resistance
Add slide locks or bottom bar reinforcement
If you live in a high-wind zone, check with your local building code to see what your garage door should be rated for.
Step 5: Understand the Importance of Roof-to-Wall Connections
Your windows and doors are crucial—but they’re just part of the protection equation. Your roof is another major vulnerability.
The way your roof is attached to the rest of the structure can make the difference between it staying on or lifting off during a storm.
Hurricane Straps and Clips
These are metal connectors used to tie the roof trusses to the top wall plate of your home. They provide a stronger, more secure connection than just nails or screws.
Look for:
Hurricane straps: Wrap around the truss and connect to the wall plate
Clips: Nail into both the truss and wall plate
If your home was built before Florida’s stricter building codes were implemented (around 2001), it may not have these reinforcements in place.
That’s where a Wind Mitigation Inspection comes in.
What Is a Wind Mitigation Inspection—and Why You Need One
A Wind Mitigation Inspection evaluates how well your home is built to withstand hurricane-force winds. It focuses on:
Roof shape (hip roofs perform better)
Roof deck attachment (how your roof sheathing is nailed)
Roof-to-wall connections (clips or straps)
Secondary water barrier (underlayment under shingles)
Opening protection (shutters or impact windows)
Why It Matters
Insurance Savings: Florida law requires insurance companies to offer discounts for homes with certain wind mitigation features. Many homeowners save hundreds or even thousands per year.
Peace of Mind: Knowing how your home is built—and what needs improvement—helps you make smarter upgrades.
Storm Readiness: If your home has weak points, you can address them before a storm hits.
A Wind Mitigation Inspection from Damngood Inspection provides a full report you can submit to your insurance company and use for your own safety planning.
When Should You Take Action?
Don’t wait until a hurricane is forming off the coast. Once a storm is in the forecast:
Stores run out of supplies
Contractors get fully booked
Prices go up
Insurance changes may not apply in time
The best time to act is now, while the weather is calm and help is available.
Final Thoughts: Small Fixes Can Make a Big Difference
Preparing your Florida home for hurricane season doesn’t have to be overwhelming. Start with the most vulnerable points—your windows and doors—and work your way up. Then look into structural features like hurricane clips and schedule a Wind Mitigation Inspection to learn where your home stands.
These steps not only protect your family and property but can also reduce your insurance costs and increase the value of your home.
Need Help?
At Damngood Inspection, we inspect thousands of Florida homes every year—and we know what works. Whether you're preparing for storm season or just want peace of mind, we’re here to help.