{"id":3565,"date":"2026-10-22T01:14:57","date_gmt":"2026-10-22T01:14:57","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/aspsuperhome.com\/guides\/impact-windows\/how-to-tell-if-windows-are-impact-resistant\/"},"modified":"2026-11-08T09:14:42","modified_gmt":"2026-11-08T09:14:42","slug":"how-to-tell-if-windows-are-impact-resistant","status":"publish","type":"page","link":"https:\/\/aspsuperhome.com\/guides\/impact-windows\/how-to-tell-if-windows-are-impact-resistant\/","title":{"rendered":"How to Tell If Windows Are Impact Resistant in Florida"},"content":{"rendered":"\n
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Impact Windows | South Florida<\/p>

How to Tell If Your Windows Are Impact Resistant<\/h1>

Learn what to look for on the frame and glass, what the markings mean, and how to confirm the windows in your home match their rating. Start with a free first consultation, confidential and with no obligation.<\/p>

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By Jonathan Rodriguez \u00b7 Published October 21, 2026<\/p>\n\n

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To tell if windows are impact resistant, look for a permanent approval marking that matches that exact window. Thick glass or a heavy frame proves nothing on its own. In Florida, replacing windows generally needs a building permit, and impact products need an approval that fits the wind rules for the location.<\/p>\n

The Short Answer: Impact Windows Need a Permit and a Matching Approval<\/h2>\n

Impact windows in Florida generally need a permit, and the product needs an approval that fits local wind rules. Installing or replacing exterior impact windows generally requires a permit, subject to the building official’s determination, according to Opa-locka permit guidance<\/a>.<\/p>\n

The rule isn’t about how the glass feels. It’s about proof. Florida law says a product may not be advertised, sold, or marketed as hurricane or impact protection from wind-borne debris unless it is approved. Anyone who sells an unapproved product that way can face action under the Florida Deceptive and Unfair Trade Practices Act (\u00a7 553.842<\/a>).<\/p>\n

Under \u00a7 553.844<\/a>, for site-built, single-family residential structures, any activity requiring a building permit, excluding roof covering replacement or repair work associated with the prevention of degradation of the residence, that is applied for on or after July 1, 2008, and for which the estimated cost is $50,000 or more, must include provision of opening protections as required within the Florida Building Code for new construction for a building located in the wind-borne debris region as defined in s. 1609.2 of the International Building Code (2006) and that has an insured value of $750,000 or more, or, if the building is uninsured or for which documentation of insured value is not presented, has a just valuation for the structure for purposes of ad valorem taxation of $750,000 or more. Roof covering replacement or repair work associated with the prevention of degradation of the residence is excluded from this requirement.<\/p>\n\n

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If your windows have no approval marking, or you're planning a replacement, our team can review each opening with you and map out the permit. Talk it through with our team — the first consultation is free, confidential, and carries no obligation.<\/p>

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How to Tell If a Window Is Impact Resistant<\/h2>\n

Start by finding a permanent label or etched marking on the frame or glass. It should name the product and show an approval number. No marking means no proof.<\/p>\n