Two story house with shutters up pepared for a hurricane
Hurricane Protection December 23, 2025 8 min read

Impact Windows vs Hurricane Shutters in South Florida: Which Is the Better Investment?

If you own property in Miami-Dade, Broward, or Palm Beach County, you already know that hurricane protection is not optional. The question is: should you install impact windows or hurricane shutters? Both provide storm protection, but they differ dramatically in cost, convenience, insurance benefits, and long-term value.

In this guide, we'll break down the pros and cons of each option, help you understand Florida Building Code requirements, and show you how to make the smartest decision for your home and budget.

Quick Answer

Impact windows are the better long-term investment for most South Florida homeowners. They provide permanent protection, increase property value, reduce energy costs, eliminate UV damage, and offer greater insurance discounts—without the hassle of deploying shutters before every storm. However, hurricane shutters can be a cost-effective solution for budget-conscious homeowners or investment properties.

What Are Impact Windows?

Impact windows, also called hurricane windows or impact-resistant windows, are specially engineered windows designed to withstand high winds and flying debris during hurricanes and tropical storms. They feature two layers of glass bonded with a strong interlayer—typically polyvinyl butyral (PVB) or ethylene-vinyl acetate (EVA)—similar to the windshield in your car.

When struck by debris, the glass may crack, but it stays intact within the frame, preventing wind and water from entering your home. This design also provides year-round benefits including energy efficiency, noise reduction, and UV protection.

Key Features of Impact Windows:

  • Permanently installed—no need to deploy before storms
  • Laminated glass construction resists wind-borne debris
  • Meet Florida Building Code requirements (HVHZ and non-HVHZ)
  • Energy Star rated options reduce cooling costs
  • Block up to 99% of harmful UV rays
  • Reduce outside noise by up to 50%
  • Enhance home security and deter break-ins

What Are Hurricane Shutters?

Hurricane shutters are protective coverings installed over windows and doors to shield them from hurricane-force winds and flying debris. Unlike impact windows, shutters are deployed only when a storm is approaching and removed afterward.

There are several types of hurricane shutters available, each with different installation methods, costs, and levels of convenience.

Common Types of Hurricane Shutters:

  • Accordion Shutters: Permanently installed at the sides of windows and doors; unfold and lock into place when needed. Popular for large openings.
  • Roll-Down Shutters: Motorized or manual shutters that roll down from a housing box above the window. Convenient but more expensive.
  • Bahama Shutters: Hinged at the top and propped open at an angle; provide shade and easy storm deployment.
  • Colonial Shutters: Decorative hinged shutters on either side of the window; swing closed and lock during storms.
  • Panel Shutters (Aluminum or Steel): Removable panels that bolt or slide into place over windows. Least expensive but most labor-intensive.
  • Storm Panels (Corrugated Metal): Budget-friendly option requiring storage and manual installation before each storm.

Side-by-Side Comparison: Impact Windows vs Hurricane Shutters

Here's a detailed breakdown to help you understand which option best fits your needs.

Feature Impact Windows Hurricane Shutters
Upfront Cost $40–$65 per sq ft installed $7–$30 per sq ft (varies by type)
Deployment None—always in place Must be deployed before each storm
Convenience Extremely convenient Requires physical effort or motorization
Aesthetics Clear views, modern look Can be bulky; blocks light when deployed
Energy Efficiency Reduces cooling costs year-round No energy savings
UV Protection Blocks 99% of UV rays None (except when deployed)
Noise Reduction Significant soundproofing Minimal
Home Value Increases property value Minimal impact on resale value
Insurance Discount 10%–30% or more 5%–15% (varies by insurer)
Maintenance Low—standard window care Regular checks, tracks, and moving parts

Cost Breakdown: What to Expect in South Florida

Cost is often the deciding factor between impact windows and hurricane shutters. Let's break down what you can expect to pay for a typical South Florida home.

Impact Windows Cost

Impact windows typically range from $40 to $65 per square foot, fully installed. For a 2,000-square-foot home with approximately 300 square feet of window area, expect to invest between $12,000 and $20,000.

What Affects Impact Window Pricing?

  • Window size and style (single-hung, casement, sliding, picture)
  • Glass type (standard laminated vs. Low-E energy-efficient glass)
  • Frame material (vinyl, aluminum, or wood-clad)
  • Custom shapes or architectural designs
  • Location and labor rates (Miami vs. Palm Beach)

Hurricane Shutters Cost

Hurricane shutter costs vary widely depending on the type you choose:

  • Storm Panels: $7–$15 per sq ft (most affordable)
  • Accordion Shutters: $15–$25 per sq ft
  • Bahama or Colonial Shutters: $20–$30 per sq ft
  • Roll-Down Shutters: $25–$50+ per sq ft (motorized options cost more)

For the same 2,000-square-foot home, expect to pay between $2,100 and $15,000, depending on the shutter type and coverage area.

Insurance Savings: Which Option Saves You More?

One of the biggest financial benefits of hurricane protection in South Florida is the discount on homeowners insurance premiums. Florida law requires insurers to offer discounts for approved wind mitigation features—and impact windows typically qualify for the highest savings.

Impact Windows Insurance Discounts

Impact-resistant windows can reduce your insurance premium by 10% to 30% or more, depending on your insurer, location, and coverage limits. In high-risk zones like Miami Beach or Fort Lauderdale, these savings can be substantial.

Example Savings Calculation

Annual premium: $3,500
Discount with impact windows: 20%
Annual savings: $700
10-year savings: $7,000

Over time, your insurance savings can offset a significant portion of your initial investment.

Hurricane Shutters Insurance Discounts

Hurricane shutters also qualify for insurance discounts, typically ranging from 5% to 15%. However, the discount is usually lower than impact windows because shutters must be manually deployed, and not all insurers consider them as reliable.

Additionally, some insurers require proof that shutters were properly deployed before the storm to honor claims—which can be a point of contention if you evacuate early or forget to install them.

Florida Building Code and HVHZ Requirements

Understanding Florida's building code requirements is critical when choosing hurricane protection. The state has some of the strictest standards in the nation, especially in High-Velocity Hurricane Zones (HVHZ).

What Is the HVHZ?

The High-Velocity Hurricane Zone includes Miami-Dade and Broward counties. Homes in these areas must meet stricter wind resistance standards due to the higher risk of Category 4 and 5 hurricanes.

Both impact windows and hurricane shutters can meet HVHZ requirements—but they must be tested and approved by the Miami-Dade County Product Control Division or the Florida Building Code Testing Application Standard.

Important for Homebuyers and Sellers

If you're buying or selling a home in South Florida, make sure all hurricane protection meets current Florida Building Code standards. Outdated or improperly installed shutters can result in failed inspections, denied insurance claims, or reduced property value.

Pros and Cons: Making the Right Choice

Impact Windows

Pros

  • Always ready—no deployment needed
  • Highest insurance discounts
  • Increases home value
  • Energy savings year-round
  • UV protection and noise reduction
  • Enhanced security
  • Clean, modern appearance

Cons

  • Higher upfront cost
  • Requires professional installation
  • Longer lead time for custom orders

Hurricane Shutters

Pros

  • Lower initial cost
  • Good for budget-conscious homeowners
  • Can be installed quickly
  • Provides effective storm protection
  • Some styles add curb appeal

Cons

  • Must be deployed before each storm
  • Blocks natural light when closed
  • No energy or UV benefits
  • Requires maintenance and storage (for panels)
  • Lower insurance discounts
  • Can be cumbersome for elderly or disabled

When Should You Choose Hurricane Shutters?

While impact windows are often the better long-term investment, hurricane shutters make sense in certain situations:

  • You're on a tight budget: If you need hurricane protection but can't afford impact windows, shutters provide effective coverage at a lower price point.
  • You own a rental or investment property: If you're not living in the home year-round, shutters may be a more cost-effective option.
  • You plan to sell soon: If you're planning to sell within a few years, shutters may provide adequate protection without the larger upfront investment.
  • You want a hybrid approach: Some homeowners install impact windows on the front of the home (for curb appeal and convenience) and use shutters on less visible areas to save money.

Energy Efficiency and Year-Round Benefits

One major advantage of impact windows that's often overlooked is their year-round energy efficiency. In South Florida's hot, humid climate, cooling costs can account for a significant portion of your utility bill.

How Impact Windows Reduce Energy Costs

  • Low-E Glass Coatings: Reflects heat and UV rays while allowing natural light to enter, keeping your home cooler.
  • Insulated Frames: Minimize heat transfer and air leakage around window edges.
  • Laminated Glass: The PVB interlayer provides an additional thermal barrier compared to standard single-pane windows.

Estimated Annual Savings

Homeowners in South Florida typically save 15%–25% on cooling costs after installing energy-efficient impact windows. For a home with an annual cooling bill of $1,800, that's a savings of $270–$450 per year.

Hurricane shutters, on the other hand, offer no energy savings since they're only deployed during storms. This is another long-term cost factor to consider when comparing the two options.

Frequently Asked Questions

Final Verdict: Which Is Right for You?

If you're a long-term homeowner in South Florida who values convenience, energy efficiency, and maximum protection, impact windows are the clear winner. They offer superior insurance discounts, increase your home's value, require no deployment, and provide year-round benefits that hurricane shutters simply can't match.

However, if you're on a tight budget or need a temporary solution, hurricane shutters can provide effective storm protection at a lower upfront cost. Just be prepared for the inconvenience of deployment and the lack of additional benefits like energy savings and UV protection.

Our Recommendation

For most South Florida homeowners, the long-term benefits of impact windows far outweigh the higher initial cost. When you factor in insurance savings, energy efficiency, increased home value, and peace of mind, impact windows are the smarter investment for protecting your family and property.

Ready to Protect Your Home?

Get a free, no-obligation estimate on impact windows or hurricane shutters for your South Florida home.

Schedule Free Consultation Call (954) 419-5940

Serving Miami-Dade, Broward, and Palm Beach Counties

About Level Up Impact Supply Co: We're a trusted supplier of premium impact windows and doors serving South Florida homeowners, contractors, and property managers. Our products meet or exceed Florida Building Code requirements, and we're connected with a network of licensed installers throughout Miami-Dade, Broward, and Palm Beach counties.