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Rising demand for impact-rated doors in storm-prone areas means customers increasingly expect protection without compromise — doors that meet stringent codes while enhancing style, comfort, and long-term value. Home owners don’t want industrial-looking doors that remind them of worst-case scenarios; they still want entry points that feel welcoming. 

According to representatives from , a member company of the Æðµã´«Ã½ Leading Suppliers Council, it’s essential to offer and understand products that meet these expectations so you can stay competitive, educate end users, and drive business growth.

ODL recommends taking the following insights into consideration:

Code Compliance Is Just the Beginning

Standards like the (FBC), including Miami-Dade HVHZ requirements, and the (TDI) approvals make impact-rated doors a necessity rather than a luxury. While some predict the global doors market will , professionals must stay fluent in these codes and provide a range of compliant door systems nationwide.

Meeting minimum code, however, is only the start. As codes evolve and building science advances, home owners seek solutions that go beyond compliance. In coastal and tornado-prone areas, where lives and property are at stake, certified products are the baseline.

The key is to partner with forward-thinking manufacturers to access guidance, documentation, and proven systems that simplify installation and inspection. The right partners anticipate code changes, offer tailored solutions, and help differentiate your storm-ready offerings for a competitive edge.

System Integrity Matters

Impact resistance depends on the entire door system, not just one component. High-performing systems use fiberglass skins and dense foam cores that are lightweight, strong, efficient, and dent-resistant. Reinforced engineered lumber lock stiles add protection against water absorption, rot, mold, and pests, making them ideal for humid, high-moisture environments.

Frames and doorglass must match that resilience. Look for systems with high-grade plastic, aluminum, and laminated glass that can withstand severe weather. When shattered, laminated glass adheres to its inner resin layer, maintaining the barrier and structural integrity.

The best systems work in harmony to resist flying debris, pressure shifts, and moisture exposure. A Design Pressure (DP) rating of at least +/-65 and certifications from the FBC and TDI confirm that every component has been tested as part of a cohesive, high-performance system.

Add Value Beyond Storm Protection

Home owners expect impact-rated doors to do more than withstand storms. Even when specifying , they should elevate comfort, aesthetics, and energy efficiency. Impact-rated glass can offer natural light and decorative options such as frosted or rain glass without compromising protection. Manufacturers with a wide range of approved configurations ensure every customer can find a solution that matches both style and code.

Some impact-rated systems also reduce noise by up to 39 dB, creating quieter interiors year-round. Their construction minimizes heat transfer, lowering energy costs and improving comfort. The same strength that protects against windborne debris also enhances security and reduces wear over time, potentially qualifying home owners for insurance discounts.

By choosing and recommending solutions that balance safety and style, you help build more resilient communities. When your offerings go beyond protection to enhance comfort, efficiency, and peace of mind, you position yourself as a forward-thinking partner ready to meet the demands of extreme weather patterns and evolving home owner expectations.

This article was written by Millicent Davis, manager of regional sales at . It was published on Æðµã´«Ã½Now as a benefit of membership in the Æðµã´«Ã½ Leading Suppliers Council.