Hurricanes and strong storms pose serious risks to homes, especially in coastal areas. One of the most vulnerable points in any home during a storm is its windows and doors. Sliding doors, in particular, require special reinforcement to withstand hurricane-force winds and flying debris. That’s where hurricane proof sliding doors come in, designed to offer both storm safety and functionality. These doors are engineered to protect your home while maintaining the aesthetic and convenience of sliding doors.
In this guide, we will cover some of the best hurricane proof sliding doors for storm safety, focusing on durability, features, and what to look for when upgrading your home’s storm protection.
1. Why You Need Hurricane Proof Sliding Doors
Best hurricane proof sliding doors are designed to withstand the extreme pressures and impacts that come with severe storms. Standard sliding doors are often made from regular glass and lightweight frames, which can shatter or collapse under high winds or debris impact. In contrast, hurricane proof sliding doors are constructed with impact-resistant glass and reinforced frames to provide maximum protection.
Key Benefits:
- Protection from high winds and flying debris: With impact-resistant glass and reinforced frames, these doors are tested to withstand hurricane-force winds, often up to 200 mph.
- Energy efficiency: Many of these doors feature insulated glass and frames, helping to reduce energy consumption by maintaining a consistent indoor temperature.
- Security: Their sturdy construction also acts as a deterrent to break-ins, offering an extra layer of security for your home.
- UV and noise protection: High-quality hurricane doors block UV rays and reduce external noise, improving comfort inside the home.
2. Top Hurricane Proof Sliding Door Options
Here are some of the best hurricane proof sliding doors on the market, known for their strength, quality, and design:
a) PGT WinGuard® Sliding Glass Doors
PGT’s WinGuard® series is widely recognized as one of the best choices for hurricane-proof sliding doors. These doors are built with impact-resistant laminated glass and feature strong aluminum or vinyl frames, making them durable enough to withstand hurricane-force winds and debris impact.
Key Features:
- Laminated impact-resistant glass
- Strong aluminum or vinyl frames
- Energy-efficient with Low-E coatings
- Available in various sizes and finishes
b) Andersen Stormwatch® Sliding Patio Doors
Andersen’s Stormwatch® series offers excellent storm protection with their sliding doors specifically designed for hurricane-prone areas. These doors feature impact-resistant glass, corrosion-resistant hardware, and reinforced frames, making them a top choice for coastal homes.
Key Features:
- Impact-resistant glass certified to withstand Category 5 hurricane conditions
- Available in multiple styles and finishes to suit any home design
- Low-maintenance fiberglass, vinyl, or aluminum frames
- Strong seals to prevent water intrusion
c) Origin Hurricane Sliding Doors
Known for their high-quality aluminum frames, Origin’s hurricane sliding doors are designed to protect against severe storms. These doors combine sleek design with strong performance, featuring ultra-durable glass that meets the toughest hurricane standards.
Key Features:
- Premium-grade aluminum frames for strength and durability
- Double glazing and weather-sealed systems to prevent air and water leakage
- Large glass panels for expansive views without compromising safety
- Certified for hurricane resistance in coastal regions
d) Milgard Tuscany® Series Impact-Resistant Sliding Doors
Milgard’s Tuscany® series offers a stylish yet storm-safe option for homeowners. These sliding doors feature impact-resistant glass and durable vinyl frames, providing protection while enhancing the aesthetics of your home. They are tested for both impact resistance and high wind loads, making them a reliable option for storm-prone regions.
Key Features:
- Durable vinyl frames that resist corrosion and warping
- Impact-resistant laminated glass
- Energy-efficient options with multiple glass coatings
- Customizable design to fit your home’s style
e) Kolbe Forgent® Series Impact Sliding Doors
The Kolbe Forgent® series offers fiberglass-reinforced sliding doors designed for superior strength and storm protection. These doors are engineered to handle extreme weather while maintaining energy efficiency and long-term durability. They are highly resistant to both impacts and harsh weather conditions.
Key Features:
- Fiberglass-reinforced frames for enhanced strength
- Laminated impact-resistant glass
- Weatherproof seals to prevent leaks
- Available in various configurations and sizes
3. How to Choose the Best Hurricane Proof Sliding Doors for Storm Safety
When selecting hurricane proof sliding doors for your home, several factors should be considered to ensure that you get the best protection and value for your investment.
a) Impact-Resistant Glass
The most important feature of hurricane proof doors is the impact-resistant glass, which is designed to withstand high-velocity debris impacts without shattering. Look for doors that meet or exceed Miami-Dade County standards or Florida Building Code requirements, as these are the most stringent guidelines for hurricane-resistant products.
b) Frame Material
The frame plays a critical role in the overall durability of the sliding door. Options include:
- Aluminum: Known for its strength and lightweight properties, aluminum is a popular choice for storm doors.
- Vinyl: Vinyl is low-maintenance and energy-efficient, offering good protection against corrosion, which is particularly important in coastal areas.
- Fiberglass: Highly durable and resistant to warping or corrosion, fiberglass is ideal for harsh weather conditions but can be more expensive.
c) Water and Wind Resistance
In addition to impact resistance, your sliding doors should be designed to resist wind-driven rain and strong winds. Look for high pressure ratings and weatherproof seals that prevent water intrusion, especially if you live in a region that experiences heavy storms and rainfall.
d) Energy Efficiency
Many hurricane proof sliding doors are designed with energy efficiency in mind. Features like Low-E glass coatings and insulated frames can help reduce heat transfer, keeping your home cooler in summer and warmer in winter. This not only saves energy but also lowers your utility bills.
e) Design and Customization
While protection is the priority, you don’t have to compromise on aesthetics. Many manufacturers offer customizable options in terms of frame color, size, and finish, allowing you to match your hurricane proof sliding doors with your home’s existing style. Consider whether you want additional features like multi-panel doors or French-style sliding doors for a more elegant look.
f) Certifications and Compliance
Make sure that the hurricane proof sliding doors you choose are certified for impact resistance and meet local building codes. In the U.S., the Miami-Dade County certification is one of the most trusted standards for storm safety. Doors that meet these criteria have been rigorously tested to ensure they provide maximum protection.
4. Conclusion: Best Hurricane Proof Sliding Doors for Storm Safety
Choosing the best hurricane proof sliding doors is essential for ensuring the safety and protection of your home during severe storms. Brands like PGT, Andersen, Origin, and Milgard offer high-quality, impact-resistant sliding doors that combine security, energy efficiency, and style.
When selecting hurricane proof sliding doors, look for strong, impact-resistant glass, durable frames, and weatherproof seals to keep your home safe from high winds, rain, and flying debris. By investing in top-rated hurricane proof doors, you can protect your property while enhancing the beauty and functionality of your living space.
