Impact Windows vs. Hurricane Film: Which Actually Protects Your Home?

Not All Storm Protection Is Created Equal

If you're in South Florida, you've probably seen it — ads for hurricane film that promise protection at a fraction of the cost of impact windows. Sounds tempting, right?

But here’s the truth: while hurricane film can help reduce glass shatter, it’s not even in the same league as real impact-rated windows.

Let’s break down the difference so you can make the right choice before the next storm rolls through.

What Is Hurricane Film?

Hurricane film is a transparent plastic adhesive applied directly to your existing windows. Its main job is to hold broken glass together so shards don’t fly across your living room.

🛑 What it doesn’t do:

• Stop flying debris
• Prevent glass breakage
• Provide structural protection
• Keep wind pressure out

At best, it's a backup bandage. At worst, it gives a false sense of security.

How Impact Windows Actually Protect Your Home

Impact windows are engineered with laminated, multi-layered glass and reinforced frames designed to:

• Resist shattering from flying debris
• Handle extreme wind pressures
• Reduce internal pressure spikes that can destroy your roof
• Keep water and debris out

They’re tested using missile impact simulations and cyclical wind-pressure tests — and they must meet strict Florida Building Code standards.