Impact Windows vs Hurricane Shutters: South Florida Cost & ROI Breakdown

What the code actually requires

Inside the HVHZ (Miami-Dade + Broward), every glazed opening must either be impact-rated or protected by an approved shutter system rated to ASTM E1996 Large Missile Level D. Outside the HVHZ but inside the WBDR, Level C is acceptable.

If you're remodeling a home built before 2002 you'll trigger compliance at the permit stage — see Miami-Dade permitting basics.

Real installed costs (2026)

Impact windows: $55–$110/sq ft installed. Aluminum-frame low end, vinyl mid, thermally broken aluminum or fiberglass high end.

Accordion shutters: $20–$35/sq ft. Best cost-per-opening but visually present year-round.

Roll-down shutters: $35–$60/sq ft. Premium look, motorized options, integrated with smart-home.

Panel/storm shutters: $8–$15/sq ft. Cheapest, but require manual install before every storm and storage space.

Insurance, resale, and the 8-year math

Citizens and most private carriers in Florida discount wind premiums 20–45% for impact glass and 15–30% for permanent shutters. On a $6,000/yr policy that's $1,200–$2,700/yr back in your pocket.

Impact windows typically add 75–85% of their installed cost to resale; shutters add 30–40%. Over an 8-year ownership horizon, impact windows usually win the total-cost comparison even at a higher upfront price.

Get a hardening quote — Bedrock handles the structural opening, buck, and HVHZ inspection coordination on retrofit jobs.

Frequently asked questions