Updated November 4, 2026
Two ways to protect openings
The Florida Building Code lets homes in the wind-borne debris region protect openings with tested impact-resistant products or with approved shutters. Either route can satisfy code for new construction, so the real choice is about how you live, what your house looks like and what fits your budget. The City of Dunedin's forms state that all of Pinellas County is in that region (source).
How impact windows work
Impact glass is laminated: two glass layers with a polymer layer between them. When struck, the glass can crack but the layer is designed to hold it together and keep the opening sealed. Manufacturers test with a 2x4 fired at the glass and then cycle the window through thousands of pressure changes (one manufacturer's explanation).
Because the protection is built into the window, nothing has to be done before a storm.
How shutters work
Shutters mount over or beside the window. Common types include accordion, roll-down, panel and fabric styles. They are closed or installed when a storm is coming. Whichever type you choose should have a Florida Product Approval or NOA number and be installed as that approval describes.
Things to compare
- Effort: Impact windows need no action. Shutters need someone to put them up in time, which is harder if you travel, are older, or own a second home.
- Daily use: Closed shutters block light and views. Impact windows stay clear.
- Looks and neighborhood rules: Some condos and HOAs have rules about color and style.
- Maintenance: Shutters have moving parts and storage needs. Impact frames need regular rinsing, especially near salt water.
- Cost: It varies a great deal by home size, number of openings and product. Get written quotes for both so you can compare.
- Existing windows: Shutters protect the windows you already have. If those windows are old, they may also be worth replacing for other reasons.
Insurance and code
Florida's wind-mitigation discount law lists opening protection among the features insurers must consider (Statute 627.0629). On the state's wind mitigation form, different types of protection are classified differently, so ask your inspector how your option would be recorded. Do not assume every option earns the same credit; ask your insurance agent.
Questions to ask a pro
- What is the Florida Product Approval or NOA number for each product?
- Does your quote include the permit, removal of old units and finish work?
- Who deploys shutters, and where are they stored?
- How will the product be recorded on a wind mitigation report?
- What warranty comes with the product and the installation?
A simple way to decide
Start with your situation. If you travel often, own a second home, or would have trouble putting up shutters yourself, protection that works without you may matter most. If your windows are in good shape and you are on a tight timeline or budget, shutters over what you already have may fit better. If you are already planning to replace worn windows, it can make sense to price impact units at the same time.
Write down the total cost of each option, including permit fees, finish work and any storage or upkeep. Then ask each company for the approval numbers so you can verify them yourself on the state's product approval site.
Garage doors, sliders and other openings
The wind-borne debris rules are about all openings, not just windows. Entry doors with glass, sliding glass doors, garage doors and skylights all count as openings under the code, and the permit paperwork Pinellas County uses asks you to list each unit, including sliding glass doors (county form). If you are mixing products, make a list of every opening and what will protect it.
For a home you already own, ask the building department whether your specific project triggers any opening-protection requirement. The older-home exception described in our permits guide has limits.
Frequently asked questions
Which is stronger, impact windows or shutters?
Both are tested to meet code when they are approved products installed correctly. Compare the approval documents rather than relying on general claims.
Can I mix shutters and impact windows?
Often yes, as long as all openings are covered by approved protection. Ask your building department and wind mitigation inspector.
Do impact windows help with noise?
Laminated glass can cut some outside noise, but results depend on the product. Ask for the manufacturer's data rather than assuming.