Patio doors allow homeowners to soak up a little sun and fresh air on the back porch. They also let in a lot more natural light to brighten up living spaces.
Energy efficiency is important in Florida, where high temperatures can cause energy bills to skyrocket. With the right door installation in Waldo FL, you can cut down on energy loss through air leaks.
High-Velocity Hurricane Zones
Florida is home to the highest concentration of hurricane-prone areas in the entire United States. As a result, the state has strict building codes designed to make homes more resilient against hurricane-related damage. For instance, the High Velocity Hurricane Zone (HVHZ) requires buildings to withstand high wind speeds and debris impact. The HVHZ encompasses Miami-Dade and Broward counties in Florida.
The high level of destruction wrought by Hurricane Andrew in 1992 led to the creation of the HVHZ. It requires that all exterior building materials such as windows and doors be laboratory-tested and approved for use in hurricane-prone regions.
Choosing products with a Miami-Dade Notice of Acceptance or Florida Product Approval guarantees that your new Patio doors Waldo FL are compliant with the stringent requirements of the HVHZ. However, it is important to note that the HVHZ requirement only applies to new construction. For older properties, opting for a full-frame replacement is the best way to ensure that your home meets the HVHZ requirements.
Impact and Hurricane Protection
During a hurricane, wind-driven debris can cause significant property damage. Patio doors that are reinforced with impact glass provide a strong defense against these dangers. This feature is why many Florida coastal regions require impact resistant windows and doors in new construction projects.
While preventing water, wind, and glass shards from entering the home may seem like the biggest benefit of impact doors, they also guard against another potential threat: sudden changes in air pressure that can comprise a home’s building envelope.
Patio doors are often a home’s largest point of entry, which is why it is important to choose an impact-resistant option when upgrading. The tempered glass used in these units is four times stronger than regular glass and helps maintain a comfortable indoor environment in Florida’s challenging weather conditions. These patio door options can be installed in a variety of styles and designs to enhance a home’s aesthetic appeal. For example, French doors offer a graceful transition between indoor and outdoor spaces.
Energy Efficiency
Patio doors provide a quick, convenient way to access your backyard and the side of your home. They also help to bring more natural light into your home, which can make it feel bigger and brighter.
Depending on what style you choose, your patio door can add a lot to the overall look and feel of your home. Milgard offers bifold patio doors, for instance, that are an accordion-style design that creates a seamless transition from indoor to outdoor spaces. US Window & Door provides French and sliding patio doors in various styles as well, including a variety of deadbolt options.
Energy efficiency is an important consideration when choosing new exterior doors, especially in Florida where temperatures can be extreme. Energy-efficient patio doors can lower your energy bills month after month and save you money over time. A local contractor can assist with selecting a patio door that meets your energy goals. Options include vinyl and fiberglass doors, which can withstand salty air and damaging UV rays.
Durability
Patio doors should be sturdy enough to resist the impact of debris and high winds during a hurricane. They should also withstand saltwater environments and ultraviolet (UV) rays. These demands are easier to meet when you opt for a door made from fiberglass or composite material.
These materials are resistant to humidity, varying temperatures, and the harsh UV light that penetrates Florida homes. They’re also more durable than wood, so they don’t require frequent maintenance or repairs.
If you’re looking for a way to revamp your entryway, connect indoor and outdoor spaces, or improve security and energy efficiency, consider patio doors from the Rustic Collection. These insulated doors are designed with solid panel details to deliver the durability, protection, and aesthetics you want. Their frame construction adheres to southern Florida’s strict building codes and offers superior wind resistance. They also feature improved sound control qualities to reduce outside noise and keep your family comfortable. The specialized glass also helps repel intruders who try to break into your home.