Impact Windows vs Hurricane Shutters: Cost and Tradeoffs
Posted by Michael Joiner on
When it comes to hurricane protection for your Florida home, two options dominate the conversation: impact windows and hurricane shutters. Both meet Florida Building Code requirements, but they differ significantly in cost, convenience, and long-term value. This 2026 guide compares the two to help you decide which is the better investment.
What Are Impact Windows?
Impact windows use laminated glass bonded to a strong interlayer that holds together even when shattered. They're installed permanently and look just like regular windows, providing hurricane protection 24/7 without any deployment required.
What Are Hurricane Shutters?
Hurricane shutters are protective coverings installed over windows and doors that can be deployed before a storm. They come in several types including accordion, rolling, aluminum storm panels, Bahama, and colonial styles.
Cost Comparison
Pricing: Shutter cost depends on finished size, product family, hardware, operating method, finish, quantity, freight and installation conditions. Use the catalog prices as examples, then request a custom quote for the current product price and project-specific shipping.
When Shutters Make More Sense
Hurricane shutters are the better choice when budget is a primary concern, your existing windows are in good condition, you want code-approved protection at the lowest cost, or you're protecting a vacation home or rental property.
Get Hurricane Shutters from Shutters By Empire
Product approvals: Impact ratings and approval coverage depend on the exact product, configuration, dimensions, fasteners, substrate and installation. Confirm the current approval documents for the specific item before relying on it for hurricane protection. Decorative non-impact products are not substitutes for approved impact protection.
Empire Shutters serves customers from South Florida and ships products throughout the United States and internationally. Customers complete installation themselves or hire their own contractor or handyman. The office reviews custom dimensions, options and freight before the final order is approved.
Questions to answer before ordering hurricane shutters
A useful quote starts with more than a product name. Record the rough opening width and height, the surrounding mounting surface, wall material, nearby obstructions and how the opening is used. Photos can help the office understand conditions that measurements alone do not show.
- Which shutter family best matches the opening, budget and desired deployment method?
- What approval documents, permits and installation details apply at the project address?
- Who will install the product, and how will freight and site access be handled?
Compare current examples in the hurricane shutters collection. For custom dimensions, enter your opening measurements in the custom quote tool. The office will review measurements, colors, hardware, changes, shipping and the final total with you before payment.