Will Hurricane Impact Windows Break During a Storm?

If you’re a Punta Gorda homeowner considering hurricane protection, you’ve likely asked yourself:
“Will hurricane impact windows break during a storm?”

It’s a common and valid question, especially when investing in a long-term home upgrade. Let’s clear up the myths and explain exactly how impact glass works, what “breaking” actually means, and why impact windows remain one of the safest and most reliable solutions for Florida’s storm-prone regions.

How Do Hurricane Impact Windows Work?

Unlike regular glass, impact windows are made with a laminated glass system, which includes:

Two panes of glass
A strong, clear interlayer (usually polyvinyl butyral or SentryGlas)
Reinforced frames made of aluminum, steel, or vinyl

When hit by flying debris during a storm, the glass may crack, but it will not shatter into dangerous pieces or allow wind, rain, or pressure to enter your home.

Think of it like a car windshield, it may crack, but it stays intact and continues to provide a barrier.

Can Hurricane Impact Windows Actually Break?

The short answer: Yes, they can crack, but not fail.

During a severe hurricane, a high-speed object may cause surface damage, but the inner laminate holds the window together. This prevents:

Internal air pressure changes that can lead to roof uplift
Water intrusion through blown-out windows
Flying shards of glass inside the home

Florida building codes require impact windows to withstand wind speeds of up to 175 mph, and Caner’s windows are tested to meet or exceed those standards.

Florida Code Requirements for Impact Windows

Homes in Punta Gorda fall under Florida’s strictest hurricane building codes, especially in coastal zones. To be certified:

Windows must pass Large Missile Impact Testing (missiles = 9-lb 2×4 launched at 34 mph)
Must endure cyclical pressure testing simulating hurricane wind loads
Products must meet Miami-Dade or Florida Product Approval standards

All impact windows installed by Caner Impact Windows & Doors meet these certifications, ensuring you’re code-compliant and storm-ready.

Why Impact Windows Are Still the Best Choice for Storm Safety

While no glass is completely unbreakable, hurricane impact windows offer the best available protection for homes in Punta Gorda:

Prevents blowouts: Maintains the building envelope during pressure surges
Stops water intrusion: No broken seals or flying shards
Eliminates emergency boarding: Always in place, no setup needed
Boosts resale and insurance value

Many Punta Gorda homeowners report peace of mind knowing their home is protected, even when they’re away.

Real-Life Example: Punta Gorda Storm Performance

During Hurricane Ian, homes in Punta Gorda with impact windows from Caner remained intact, even when neighboring homes suffered damage from flying debris.

One homeowner with sliding impact windows reported:

“We lost a few roof tiles, but our windows took a direct hit from a tree branch and didn’t give. Just a crack, we were completely safe inside.”

Why Choose Caner for Impact Windows in Punta Gorda?

When you work with Caner Impact Windows & Doors, you’re getting more than just windows, you’re getting code-compliant protection, expert installation, and peace of mind.

Our service includes: