Hurricane season in Delray Beach raises a practical question: should you invest in impact glass or rely on shutters? You want strong protection, realistic insurance savings, and a clean look that supports resale value. This guide explains how each option performs under Florida’s building code, how insurers view them, what to expect locally with permits and HOAs, and how to choose what fits your home and budget. Let’s dive in.
Impact glass vs shutters: overview
Both impact-rated windows and code-approved shutters can meet Florida Building Code requirements when installed correctly. The difference is in how they work day to day, how insurers credit them, and how they look and feel to live with.
- Impact windows are a permanent upgrade that protects 24/7 and improves noise control, security, UV reduction, and energy efficiency.
- Shutters range from low-cost removable panels to high-end roll-downs. Permanent systems can match impact glass protection when properly tested, but manual panels require deployment before every storm.
Protection performance
Impact windows
Impact windows are tested to withstand wind-borne debris and cyclic pressure. When installed per the product approval and manufacturer specifications, they maintain a sealed barrier during a storm. Because they are always in place, they remove the risk of forgetting to deploy protection.
Shutters
Shutter performance depends on the type and its testing. Permanently mounted roll-down, accordion, Bahama, or colonial shutters that carry recognized product approvals can deliver equivalent protection. Detachable storm panels and plywood can also be acceptable if properly deployed, but they rely on your timing and correct installation before every storm.
Insurance credits in Florida
How credits work
In Florida, insurers use wind-mitigation inspections to document protective features and calculate discounts. An inspection typically notes opening protection, roof covering, roof-to-wall attachment, and secondary water resistance. Your premium reduction depends on your insurer’s rating plan and the combination of mitigation features your home has.
What insurers consider
Many insurers favor permanent impact glazing because it provides continuous protection and avoids deployment risk. Approved permanent shutters, including motorized roll-downs and accordions, can also qualify for credits. Manual, removable panels may receive different treatment because they rely on occupant action.
How to document
To receive credits, you will need product approvals or manufacturer test documentation, proof of permit and final inspection, and a completed wind mitigation inspection form. Ask your insurer or agent for written expectations before you commit to a project so you can compare net savings across options.
Cost and long-term value
Upfront cost
Impact windows typically carry a higher upfront cost per opening. Pricing varies by brand, frame type, glass thickness, and window size. Shutters span a wide range: removable panels are most affordable, while motorized roll-down systems can approach or exceed the cost of impact windows.
Long-term value
Impact windows require no deployment labor, and maintenance is often lighter than mechanical shutter systems. They also provide daily benefits like noise and UV reduction, security, and potential energy savings, which can increase owner satisfaction and resale appeal. Shutters can be a smart value play when budget is tight, especially if you choose a permanent system that balances convenience and cost.
Permits and approvals in Delray
Product approvals
Palm Beach County and the City of Delray Beach require permits for window replacements and most shutter installations. You will need recognized product approvals and manufacturer documentation showing compliance with Florida Building Code testing standards such as ASTM E1886/E1996 or Miami-Dade TAS protocols. Many local jurisdictions accept Miami-Dade Notices of Acceptance as evidence of compliance.
Inspections and documentation
A final building inspection is required after installation. If electrical work is part of a motorized shutter system, expect an electrical permit. After your project passes inspection, schedule a wind mitigation inspection to document your opening protection for insurance credits.
Aesthetics and resale
Design fit
Impact windows preserve clean architectural lines and curb appeal. In many upscale coastal markets, this look is preferred. Shutters can add character when chosen thoughtfully, especially Bahama or colonial styles that align with the home’s design. Retractable systems provide a discreet profile but typically cost more.
Buyer expectations
Many Delray buyers expect hurricane-hardening. Impact windows are often spotlighted as a premium feature in listings and can be a differentiator. High-quality, well-integrated shutters also appeal to buyers who value convenience and a historically appropriate look. If resale is near-term, think about what buyers in your submarket prefer and how quickly they can verify permits and approvals.
Materials for salt air
Delray’s salt-air environment can accelerate corrosion, especially near the ocean. Choose marine-grade hardware, corrosion-resistant finishes, and sealed framing systems. This is essential for metal shutters and for the hardware in motorized systems. Regular maintenance helps preserve function and appearance.
Historic districts and HOAs
If your home is in a Delray Beach historic district, you may face requirements that guide window styles, frame profiles, or acceptable shutter types. Many HOAs also have design covenants that limit visible exterior changes or specify approved colors and styles. Confirm these rules early so your product selection and permit application align with local expectations.
Choosing between impact glass and shutters
Use this quick decision framework to narrow your choice:
- Want a premium, turnkey solution with daily benefits and strong resale appeal? Consider impact windows.
- Want robust protection with fast deployment and potentially lower upfront cost than impact glass? Consider permanent accordion or motorized roll-down shutters with recognized product approvals.
- On a tight budget and willing to deploy protection before storms? Consider removable panels, with a clear storage and deployment plan.
Practical decision checklist
- Confirm code and permitting with Palm Beach County or the City of Delray Beach.
- Check HOA covenants and, if applicable, historic district requirements.
- Ask your insurer or agent for written estimates of credits for impact windows versus permanent shutters versus removable panels.
- Request product approvals, Miami-Dade Notices of Acceptance if available, and manufacturer installation instructions from vendors.
- Get multiple itemized bids covering materials, installation, permits, electrical work for motorized systems, and warranty terms.
- Verify marine-grade materials for coastal exposure and confirm maintenance requirements.
- Plan documentation: keep permit records, schedule final inspection, and book a wind mitigation inspection after installation.
- If selling soon, discuss buyer preferences and ROI with your agent to align your choice with market expectations.
Local notes for Delray properties
- Coastal exposure can increase risk from wind and debris. Homes closest to the ocean may see the greatest value from permanent protection.
- Flood risk is separate from wind mitigation. Check your flood zone status and remember that flood proofing does not replace opening protection.
- Roofing or structural modifications tied to shutter installation may trigger additional permits. Clarify this in bids and timelines.
When impact glass makes the most sense
- You plan to hold the property and want daily comfort from noise, UV, and energy efficiency.
- You want a clean design without visible hardware.
- You prefer predictable insurance credits tied to permanent protection.
When shutters make the most sense
- You want strong protection with lower upfront cost than many impact window packages.
- You need quick deployment without replacing existing windows, especially on larger homes with many openings.
- You prefer a stylistic choice like Bahama or colonial shutters that fits the architecture or a historic context.
Recommended next steps
- Call your insurer or agent and request written credit scenarios for impact glazing versus permanent shutters versus removable panels.
- Contact the building department to confirm permit submittals and whether your address is in a historic review area.
- Obtain three bids that include product approvals, installation methods, electrical scope if needed, timelines, and warranties.
- Choose marine-grade materials suitable for Delray’s salt air and set a maintenance plan.
- After installation, complete final inspections and a wind mitigation inspection to activate credits.
If you want help weighing resale impact or buyer expectations by neighborhood, connect with a local advisor who understands both insurance dynamics and Delray market signals. The right choice protects your home, simplifies storm prep, and supports long-term value.
Ready to talk strategy for your Delray home? Schedule a Consultation with The Cindy Kief Team to align your protection plan with your market goals and timeline.
FAQs
What is better for Delray homes: impact windows or shutters?
- Both can meet Florida Building Code when properly tested and installed. Impact windows offer permanent protection and daily benefits, while shutters can deliver equivalent storm performance with varying cost and convenience.
How do insurance discounts compare between impact glass and shutters?
- Credits vary by insurer. Many favor permanent impact glazing, but approved permanent shutters can also qualify. Ask your insurer for written estimates before you choose.
Do I need permits in Delray Beach for windows or shutters?
- Yes, permits are typically required for impact window replacement and for permanently installed shutters. Motorized systems usually need electrical permits. Confirm details with the local building department.
Are removable storm panels acceptable for code and insurance?
- Removable panels are commonly used and can be acceptable if they meet code and are installed correctly before a storm. Insurers may treat them differently than permanent systems because of deployment risk.
What testing standards should I look for on products?
- Look for compliance with ASTM E1886/E1996 or Miami-Dade TAS 201/202/203, along with recognized product approvals or Notices of Acceptance.
How do historic districts or HOAs affect my choice?
- Historic review and HOA covenants may limit window styles or require certain shutter types and colors. Confirm requirements early so your project and permit application stay on track.