Living in Florida means preparing for hurricanes and severe weather every year. One of the smartest upgrades you can make is installing impact doors — or retrofitting your existing doors with storm protection.
At Infinity Legacy Builders, we help homeowners across Palm Coast, Daytona, St. Augustine, and Central Florida upgrade their homes with durable, energy-efficient, and storm-ready door systems.
Here's what you need to know before upgrading your doors.
What Is a Storm or Impact Door?
Impact doors are specially designed to withstand high winds, flying debris, and extreme weather conditions. Unlike standard doors, they are built with:
- Reinforced frames
- Impact-resistant glass
- Strong locking systems
They act as a protective barrier, helping keep your home safe during storms while also improving insulation and security year-round.
Can You Retrofit Existing Doors?
Yes — and in many cases, retrofitting is the most cost-effective option. Retrofitting means upgrading your existing doorway with a new impact-rated system without completely rebuilding the structure.
However, it must be done correctly to ensure:
- Proper sealing
- Structural integrity
- Code compliance
Step 1: Evaluate Your Current Door and Frame
Before installing a new impact door, your current setup needs to be inspected. Check:
- Door dimensions
- Frame condition
- Structural support
Accurate measurements are critical. Even small errors can lead to gaps, leaks, or reduced protection.
Step 2: Choose the Right Impact Door
Not all doors are the same. You'll need to select based on:
Door Types
- Full-view glass doors
- Mid-view designs
- Solid or decorative options
Materials
- Aluminum (lightweight & durable)
- Steel (strong & secure)
- Fiberglass (low maintenance & energy efficient)
Key Features
- Impact-rated glass
- Multi-point locking systems
- Energy efficiency
- Hurricane compliance ratings
👉 The right choice depends on your home style, budget, and level of protection needed.
Step 3: Prepare for Installation
Proper preparation ensures long-term performance. Before installation:
- Clean and inspect the frame
- Remove debris or damage
- Gather tools and materials
- Review installation specifications
Skipping this step often leads to:
- Poor sealing
- Reduced efficiency
- Long-term structural issues
Step 4: Install the Impact Door Properly
Installation must be precise. Key steps include:
- Aligning and positioning the door correctly
- Securing hinges and frame
- Installing handles and locking systems
- Sealing gaps with weatherproof materials
A properly installed door should:
- Open and close smoothly
- Seal tightly
- Lock securely
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Many homeowners run into problems when doors are installed incorrectly. Avoid:
- Incorrect measurements
- Poor alignment
- Low-quality materials
- Skipping weatherproofing
- DIY installs without proper tools
Even small mistakes can lead to water leaks, air gaps, or reduced storm protection.
Benefits of Impact Door Upgrades
Upgrading your doors isn't just about storms — it improves your entire home.
1. Storm Protection
Designed to withstand hurricanes and flying debris.
2. Energy Efficiency
Better insulation helps reduce cooling costs.
3. Increased Security
Stronger materials and locks make break-ins more difficult.
4. Noise Reduction
Impact doors reduce outside noise significantly.
5. Higher Property Value
Modern upgrades increase resale appeal.
Financing Your Impact Door Project
Many Florida homeowners qualify for $0 down financing options for impact upgrades. With programs like PACE financing, you may be able to:
- Start your project with little or no upfront cost
- Pay over time
- Upgrade your home immediately
👉 Ask about financing options during your estimate.
Final Thoughts
If you're still relying on standard doors, now is the time to upgrade — especially in Florida. Impact doors provide year-round benefits, from storm protection to energy savings and security.
At Infinity Legacy Builders, we help homeowners across Palm Coast, Daytona, St. Augustine, Orlando, and surrounding areas choose and install the right impact window and door systems for their homes.
👉 Request a free estimate today and protect your home the right way.
Ready to upgrade your doors?
We'll inspect your current doorways, walk you through impact-rated options, and give you a clear, honest estimate — with $0 down financing available for qualified projects.