Are you looking to install new sliding, french, or patio hurricane impact doors on your Florida home? Then you have probably seen HVHZ versions when looking at doors. Some areas of Florida require HVHZ approved-use products, such as impact doors. But what exactly are HVHZ Hurricane-Rated Doors? How are they different from other impact doors? Who needs them? Keep reading as we cover what they are, why they are different, and who these requirements affect.
Keep reading to learn more about this type of impact doors and their role in your safety and comfort.
Understanding HVHZ & Impact Doors
The designated High Velocity Hurricane Zone (HVHZ) encompasses Miami-Dade, Broward, and Palm Beach Counties. Areas that require HVHZ approved products have some of the strictest building codes for hurricane compliance in the United States. As a result, the products that meet HVHZ requirements are some of the most capable products available for hurricane protection.
Below we provide an introduction into what HVHZ doors are, and why/how they are different from other hurricane impact doors.
What are HVHZ Doors?
HVHZ doors are those that meet the product requirements for HVHZ use. These doors are able to resist the impact of flying debris and capable of withstanding wind speeds during a Category 5 hurricane.
Impacts can come from anywhere because intense hurricane winds can pick up and launch debris that can break most glass in no time. But HVHZ doors have been tested to meet rigorous standards (more stringent than the Florida Building Code) enabling them to withstand the most extreme weather conditions.
HVHZ Product Approval Process
For HVHZ doors to be approved the manufacturer must put them through a thorough approval process. The product approval process includes testing, engineering analysis, reviews of other technical documentation, among other steps. In terms of testing, the products undergo several tests at an approved, Certified laboratory, including:
- Large missile test
- Small missile test
- TAS202 – Air infiltration resistance, structural wind loading and water infiltration tests
- TAS201 – Hurricane Impact Test (small and large missile testing) to determine whether the windows can sufficiently resist airborne debris
What Counties Require HVHZ Hurricane Impact Doors?
Currently HVHZ doors are required in Miami Dade and Broward Counties, which are designated as High Velocity Hurricane Zones (HVHZ). Palm Beach County is also a HVHZ. HVHZs have more stringent requirements than other areas in Florida that are designated as lower wind zones (zones 1 and 2).
However, the requirements of each municipality are decided by that individual municipality. In other words, a municipality in a wind zone 2 can and may require homes to have HVHZ approved products. This is true even if they are not technically in a HVHZ designated area.
There is an argument that other areas of South Florida should and may be changed to HVHZ vs a wind zone 2. And even if they are not changed, residents may desire to install this class of products after suffering significant damage by major hurricanes in recent years.
Who is Affected by the HVHZ Impact Door Requirements?
Currently HVHZ doors are required for two cases. First, you will need these doors if you are building a new home in any county that has Miami-Dade requirements. Second, you may need HVHZ products if you live in a city that requires HVHZ products and are doing a significant renovation to your home (ie. the 50% rule).
Of course, it is best to speak to a reputable door installation contractor in Florida and/or your local building department before buying anything. This way you can understand what requirements you must meet and ensure you buy the correct products.
Purpose and Benefits of HVHZ Hurricane Proof Doors
The primary function of impact rated doors, including HVHZ doors, is to protect your home and loved ones from the dangers of a hurricane. Wind-borne debris and intense winds can cause significant damage to your home. This is especially true if your home is exposed, such as from a broken door or window. But impact doors help protect your home during hurricanes. And HVHZ approved doors help protect it during the worst hurricanes.
Here are some benefits of installing hurricane rated doors on your Florida home.
- Hurricane doors are designed to withstand intense hurricane winds and flying debris. Even if they are fractured they remain in tact. This eliminates exposed openings in your home, which can lead to more serious damage, such as water intrusion and your home becoming pressurized.
- Provide wind-coverage insurance savings. Florida insurance companies offer discounts for homes that have properly installed hurricane impact doors (and windows). This is because they better protect your home and reduce the cost and risk of damage. These discounts can help to repay your investment over time.
- Hurricane proof doors help increase the comfort of your home. They reduce outdoor noise and are energy-efficient. They will help to dampen external noise, reduce your utility bills, and protect your home from UV exposure (e glass windows), all while protecting your house and loved ones from the damage of a severe hurricane.
Choosing the Right Hurricane Rated Doors for Your Florida Home
Selecting the best impact doors for your Florida home is not overly complicated (even though it may feel overwhelming). First of all, your new doors should meet your local building code requirements, including HVHZ ones. You can check in with your local building department to ensure the doors you like comply with the local requirements (before installing them).
There are several brands of impact doors. So picking the right brand should include looking at reviews, watch videos to learn about the products, and even seeing them in person.
Professional, proper installation is also very important. Your new impact doors are only as effective as the quality of the installation. Make sure you choose a hurricane protection company with a reputation for quality installations, such as our team at Eurex Shutters.
Conclusion
Protecting your home and loved ones should be on your mind, especially if you live in South Florida. Hurricane seasons in Florida may be different from one year to the next, but being protected is something that should be done every year. That is why investing in the right hurricane impact doors for your home ensures you are ready and prepared for the worst storms.
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