Welcome to South Florida—sunshine, palm trees, and… hurricanes. If you’ve recently purchased a home here or relocated from a region with calmer weather, preparing for hurricane season might feel overwhelming. The good news? A few proactive steps can go a long way in protecting your home and loved ones. This guide provides essential hurricane prep for new homeowners, with a special focus on how impact windows and doors offer unmatched protection for Broward County residents.

Understanding the Risks: Why Preparation Matters

South Florida is no stranger to extreme weather. From Category 1 winds to Category 5 devastation, hurricanes can disrupt power, destroy structures, and displace families. If this is your first year in a hurricane-prone area, it’s critical to understand that even a “weaker” storm can cause significant damage.

Local building codes are designed to mitigate risk, but homeowners must take personal responsibility for storm-proofing their properties. The earlier you start, the better.

Your First-Time Hurricane Checklist

Use this checklist to cover the basics of hurricane readiness as a new homeowner:

• Review Your Insurance Policy: Understand what your policy covers—and what it doesn’t. Flood insurance is often separate.
• Secure Important Documents: Store copies of insurance policies, IDs, and deeds in a waterproof/fireproof safe or digital cloud.
• Stock Emergency Supplies: Gather bottled water, non-perishable food, flashlights, batteries, a weather radio, first-aid kits, and necessary prescriptions.
• Trim Trees and Secure Outdoor Items: Flying debris is a major cause of damage. Bring in patio furniture and decor.
• Check Your Evacuation Zone: Know your zone and have a planned evacuation route in case local authorities issue orders.
• Inspect Roof and Gutters: Have a professional check for weaknesses or leaks that could lead to interior flooding.

Why Impact Windows and Doors Should Be Your First Upgrade

Many first-time homeowners are surprised to learn just how vulnerable traditional windows and doors are during a hurricane. Standard glass can shatter under flying debris or wind pressure, leaving your home exposed to wind, rain, and structural collapse.

Impact windows and doors are specifically designed for South Florida’s storm conditions. They feature laminated, reinforced glass and sturdy framing systems that can withstand hurricane-force winds and flying debris. More importantly, they help keep the home’s envelope sealed, reducing the risk of catastrophic internal pressure buildup.

For new homeowners in Broward County, investing in Broward storm protection isn’t just smart—it may be required for insurance compliance or resale viability. Plus, it adds long-term value, security, and peace of mind.

Additional Storm Protection Tips for First-Time Buyers

Here are a few lesser-known but highly useful hurricane prep tactics for new residents:

• Install Surge Protection: Lightning and sudden power outages can fry appliances and electronics. Whole-home surge protectors are worth the investment.
• Seal Entry Points: Use caulk or weather stripping to seal gaps around doors, vents, and utility entries.
• Garage Reinforcement: Your garage door is one of the most vulnerable areas. Consider bracing kits or hurricane-rated garage doors.
• Create a Communication Plan: If separated from family members, have a backup plan for how you’ll reunite or communicate without cell service.

Impact Windows vs. Temporary Solutions

New homeowners often ask: “Can’t I just use shutters or plywood?” While these temporary measures are better than nothing, they come with serious limitations. They require physical labor to install and remove, offer no UV or noise protection, and diminish your home’s curb appeal.

In contrast, impact windows and doors provide:

• Continuous 24/7 protection
• No seasonal setup or takedown
• Built-in UV filtering
• Improved sound insulation
• Potential insurance premium reductions

Secure Your First Home the Right Way

Being a homeowner in South Florida means more than enjoying sunshine and palm trees—it also means taking hurricane prep seriously. The most effective step you can take as a new resident is investing in permanent Broward storm protection with impact-rated windows and doors.

At Broward Impact, we specialize in helping first-time buyers fortify their homes with code-compliant, professionally installed protection systems tailored to your location and layout. We make the process simple, transparent, and stress-free—so you can focus on settling into your new home with confidence.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I know if my home already has impact windows?

Look for a permanent engraving or sticker on the window glass that states it’s impact-rated. If you’re unsure, a Broward Impact technician can provide a quick inspection.

Can I install impact windows and doors one section at a time?

Yes. Many homeowners begin with the most vulnerable areas—such as large sliding glass doors or front-facing windows—and expand in phases. We offer financing options to support phased installations.

Will installing impact windows reduce my insurance premiums?

Often, yes. Many insurers in Florida offer discounts for homes with certified hurricane protection features. We can help provide documentation for your provider.

How long does installation typically take?

Most residential projects can be completed in a few days, depending on the size of the home and the number of openings being upgraded.

Protect What Matters Most with Broward Impact

Don’t wait for your first hurricane to learn the hard way. Proactive preparation today means safety and security tomorrow. Let Broward Impact help you build a home that’s ready for anything South Florida weather can deliver.

Visit our homepage to explore impact window and door options, or contact us today for a personalized consultation. We’re here to help you feel confident, safe, and ready—storm season and beyond.