Impact Door Replacement South Florida: Complete Guide (2026)
Impact doors are often an afterthought when homeowners plan their hurricane protection upgrade — but they're actually the most critical opening to protect.
Why Doors Matter More Than Windows
A standard sliding glass door or entry door represents a much larger opening than any window. When a door fails in a hurricane, the pressure change is catastrophic — far more so than a window failure.
Additionally, most burglaries happen through doors, not windows. Impact doors provide security protection that standard doors simply can't match.
Types of Impact Doors Available
Sliding Glass Doors (most common replacement)
The most popular impact door replacement in South Florida. Standard sizes: 5', 6', 8', 10', and 12' wide. Two-panel and three-panel configurations.
French Doors
Double-door configuration with decorative glass options. Popular in upscale homes. Available in single and double active configurations.
Swing/Hinged Entry Doors
Front and back entry doors. Available in fiberglass, steel, and aluminum. Some feature decorative glass panels that must be impact-rated.
Garage Doors
Technically not "impact doors" but can be upgraded to hurricane-rated panels. Required in some counties for full wind mitigation credit.
Impact Door Costs in South Florida
| Door Type | Retail Price | Windows Stock Market |
|---|---|---|
| 6' Sliding glass door | $1,800–$3,500 | $800–$1,800 |
| 8' Sliding glass door | $2,500–$5,000 | $1,100–$2,500 |
| French door (pair) | $3,000–$6,000 | $1,400–$3,000 |
| Single impact entry door | $1,200–$2,500 | $550–$1,200 |
Installation adds $400–$900 per door depending on complexity.
Permit Requirements for Impact Doors
- Building permit from your county
- Florida Product Approval or Miami-Dade NOA
- Engineering documentation, where required
- Final inspection
The In-Stock Advantage for Doors
Standard door sizes — 6' and 8' sliding glass doors, standard entry doors — are almost always available in-stock at Windows Stock Market. This eliminates the typical 10–16 week lead time for custom doors.
FAQ: Impact Door Replacement
Can I replace just the glass panel in my existing impact door frame?
Sometimes, if the frame is still in good condition and the new glass has matching product approval. Have a contractor assess before ordering. In most cases, a full frame replacement provides better sealing and avoids mismatched certification issues.
Are impact sliding doors energy efficient?
Yes — significantly more than standard aluminum sliding doors. The laminated glass and improved seals reduce heat transfer, lowering cooling costs by $50–$120/month in South Florida's climate.
What's the best brand for impact sliding doors in South Florida?
PGT is the market leader for impact sliding glass doors, with the widest range of sizes and configurations. ESW offers similar performance at lower cost. Both carry Miami-Dade NOA for HVHZ installations and FPA for Broward and Palm Beach.
How much does impact door installation cost in South Florida?
A 6-foot sliding glass door runs $800–$1,800 through Windows Stock Market's in-stock inventory vs. $1,800–$3,500 retail. Installation adds $400–$900 per door. Entry doors start at $550 installed. All prices include permit.
Do impact doors qualify for the Florida insurance discount?
Yes. Impact doors with a valid Florida Product Approval (FPA) or Miami-Dade NOA qualify for the wind mitigation opening protection credit. All openings — windows and doors — must be protected to receive the maximum discount under Florida Statute 627.0629.