This is one of the most common questions we hear from homeowners in Florida:
Can impact windows really handle a Category 5 hurricane?
The short answer is yes — but the full answer is a bit more nuanced. The performance of impact windows during an extreme storm doesn’t depend on just one thing. It comes down to two critical factors:
- The quality of the product
- The quality of the installation — which is often overlooked
Understanding the difference between these two can make all the difference when it comes to protecting your home.
Impact Windows Are Designed for Extreme Conditions
Impact windows sold in Florida are engineered and tested to withstand severe hurricane conditions, including wind speeds associated with Category 5 storms. These products must meet strict building codes and pass rigorous impact and pressure testing.
When properly manufactured, impact windows are designed to:
- Resist flying debris
- Maintain structural integrity under extreme wind pressure
- Prevent sudden pressure changes inside the home that can lead to roof failure
However, even the best product can fail if it’s not installed correctly.
Why Installation Matters More Than People Realize
Many homeowners assume that choosing a premium brand automatically guarantees protection. In reality, installation is just as important — if not more important — than the product itself.
At Bigfoot Windows & Roofing, we’ve seen situations where:
- A high-end product was installed incorrectly
- Fasteners were the wrong length or thickness
- Screws were not properly anchored into the structural substrate
- Openings were not prepared correctly for the window system
In these cases, the window may technically be “impact-rated,” but its performance during a storm is compromised.
Inspections don’t always catch every detail. An inspector isn’t checking every single screw to confirm it’s properly set into the wall structure. That responsibility falls entirely on the installer.
A Simple Way to Think About It
If you had to choose between:
- A great installation company using a slightly less premium product, or
- A poor installation company using a top-tier product
The safer choice is the great installation company.
A knowledgeable installer understands:
- How to evaluate the structure of the opening
- How to address framing issues
- How to properly anchor windows to the home
- How to adjust installation methods when conditions aren’t ideal
This expertise is what ensures that impact windows perform the way they’re designed to — especially in extreme weather.
Product Approvals Still Matter
While installation is critical, product quality still plays an important role. Homeowners should always verify that their windows have:
- A Florida Product Approval
- Or a Notice of Acceptance (NOA)
These approvals confirm that the product has been tested and meets Florida’s building code requirements for hurricane resistance.
At Bigfoot Windows & Roofing, we only work with products that meet these standards. We also avoid manufacturers that don’t provide reliable service or support, because long-term performance and accountability matter just as much as initial installation.
The Real Answer: Yes — With the Right Team
So, can impact windows withstand a Category 5 hurricane?
Yes — when they are:
- Properly engineered
- Properly approved
- Properly installed by a qualified, experienced company
The window itself is only one part of the system. The installation is what ties that system into your home and ensures it performs when it matters most.
Choose Trust, Not Just a Product
Hurricane protection isn’t just about buying windows — it’s about choosing the right partner to install them. A reputable company doesn’t just sell products; it takes responsibility for how those products perform in real-world conditions.
If you have questions about impact windows, product approvals, or installation standards, our team is always here to help.
Bigfoot Windows & Roofing
Building trust — one window, one roof at a time.