June storms are heating up—know what’s behind your glass
At East Coast Windows & Doors, we know firsthand that choosing the right hurricane windows isn’t just about picking a trusted brand—it’s about understanding what that brand is built to withstand. That’s why we rely on PGT WinGuard: not just because of the name, but because of its proven design pressure ratings that align with Florida’s strict storm protection standards.
With the 2025 hurricane season already showing signs of higher-than-normal activity, now is the time to make sure your windows are truly ready. In this guide, we’ll walk you through what design pressure ratings mean, why they matter for your location, and how specific WinGuard models deliver storm protection that goes beyond the basics. Whether you’re upgrading an older home or reviewing your new construction specs, we’ll help you make sense of the numbers—and protect your investment for years to come.
Why Rated Windows Are Non-Negotiable in Florida
If you live anywhere near Florida’s coastline—or even inland—you’re in a Wind-Borne Debris Region (WBDR). That means your home is required by code to have either hurricane shutters or impact-rated windows. But here’s what we want our clients to understand: not all impact windows are created equal.
What really matters is the design pressure rating (DP). This rating tells us how much wind force a window can withstand, both pushing in and pulling out. If your windows aren’t up to the DP standard for your location, they’re not truly protecting your home
Hurricane Zones, Insurance, and Code Compliance
At East Coast Windows & Doors, we always remind clients that Florida’s building codes aren’t suggestions—they’re survival strategies. Most coastal counties, including Broward, Palm Beach, and Miami-Dade, fall into high-velocity hurricane zones (HVHZ), where products must meet stricter impact and wind load standards.
If your home is in one of these zones, your windows likely need to meet or exceed design pressure ratings of +65/–65 psf—sometimes higher. These ratings aren’t just about staying up to code. They’re also critical for:
- Insurance eligibility for windstorm mitigation discounts
- Permit approvals for additions or renovations
- Peace of mind knowing your windows won’t buckle under pressure
We always check your wind zone rating by ZIP code to recommend the right DP-rated PGT WinGuard windows for your location. And we’ll walk you through how those ratings protect against both the push and pull forces of hurricane winds.
What Is Design Pressure and Why It Matters in 2025
Design pressure is a measure of wind force resistance, expressed in pounds per square foot (psf). In simple terms: the higher the DP, the better your window can handle hurricane-force winds. In the areas we serve, we typically recommend DP ratings of +65/–65 psf or higher for homes in moderate to high-risk wind zones—especially as storms become more frequent and intense.
East Coast Windows & Doors installs windows with design pressure ratings up to +65/–80, depending on the product and application. That’s enough to meet or exceed code requirements in most parts of South Florida and provides meaningful protection for homes exposed to severe weather.
Common DP Ratings and Their Uses:
We guide our clients through design pressure ratings to help them choose windows that match their location and storm exposure. Here’s how we generally frame it:
- DP +50/–50: Entry-level performance, generally used in non-coastal or inland regions with minimal storm exposure.
- DP +65/–70: Suitable for most coastal homes in South Florida and meets the requirements of many high-velocity wind zones.
- DP +65/–80: The upper end of what we install at East Coast—ideal for homes with greater wind exposure or those located in more demanding code zones.
All of the products we offer are tested under strict industry standards, including structural test pressures beyond their rated DP. This means your windows are certified to hold up not just under sustained wind loads, but also during sudden gusts and suction forces that happen during a hurricane.
PGT WinGuard Products and Their Pressure Ratings
At East Coast Windows & Doors, we don’t just carry PGT WinGuard® windows—we specifically recommend them because they’re engineered to meet the real-world pressures of Florida’s storm-prone climate. We’ve installed these products in thousands of homes across the region and have seen them perform under serious hurricane conditions.
PGT WinGuard windows are rigorously tested for both impact resistance and design pressure performance. Each model must pass simulated hurricane conditions, including powerful positive and negative wind loads—exactly what homes face during a major storm. From the frame construction to the laminated glass to the locking systems, every component is built with storm survival in mind.
What sets PGT WinGuard apart is that it consistently delivers high DP ratings without sacrificing functionality or curb appeal. Whether you’re retrofitting a single window or outfitting an entire home, there’s a WinGuard model to match your structural and aesthetic needs—and we help you find that perfect fit.
Here are a few of the PGT WinGuard models we professionally install, with pressure performance you can count on:
Single Hung Windows
- Vinyl (SH5500): A versatile and energy-efficient choice for bedrooms, kitchens, and bathrooms. With a high design pressure rating of DP +65/–70, it offers solid resistance against coastal wind loads, while its sleek vinyl frame minimizes maintenance and enhances insulation. Ideal for homeowners seeking quiet operation and dependable performance in everyday spaces.
- Aluminum (SH7700A): Engineered for durability and strength in high-wind environments, this model is a strong option for whole-home window upgrades. With a design pressure rating up to DP +65/–80, it provides robust storm protection and structural integrity, making it a preferred solution for coastal or hurricane-prone zones.
Horizontal Roller Windows
- Vinyl (HR5510): Tailored for expansive views and smooth functionality, this window glides horizontally and is perfect for living rooms, patios, and open shared spaces. Its DP +65/–70 rating ensures wind and water resistance, while the low-maintenance vinyl frame adds a modern, clean-lined finish to wider window openings.
- Aluminum (HR7710A): Built to handle broad spans and continuous exposure to the elements, this heavy-duty horizontal roller window is ideal for wide walls in family rooms or sunrooms. It maintains a strong DP +65/–70 rating and features corrosion-resistant aluminum framing, making it suitable for Florida’s demanding weather.
Casement Windows
- Vinyl (CA5540): This outward-opening window excels in ventilation and is particularly well-suited for kitchens, bathrooms, and humid spaces where airflow and moisture resistance matter. With a DP rating up to +70, it offers both energy efficiency and easy operation with a stylish, contemporary appearance.
- Aluminum (CA740): Designed for controlled ventilation and directional airflow, this casement window is ideal for side-facing walls or tight exterior spaces. Rated up to DP +70, it brings together security, resilience, and modern architectural appeal, especially in homes needing extra air circulation.
Awning Windows
- Vinyl (AW5540): A compact yet functional choice, this vinyl awning window is perfect for bathrooms, laundry rooms, or as a top-set accent window above fixed panes. Rated DP +65+, it allows for ventilation even during light rain, while its durable frame resists warping, moisture, and fading.
- Aluminum (AW740): This rugged awning window is an excellent option for upper-story installations or adding a design feature above doors or picture windows. With a DP +65+ rating and corrosion-resistant aluminum, it performs reliably in exposed settings while maintaining visual appeal and airflow.
When we recommend a model, it’s based on more than catalog specs. We factor in your home’s wind exposure, elevation, building orientation, and zoning requirements to ensure your installation isn’t just compliant—it’s resilient.
And if you’re ever unsure which DP rating your home really needs, or how one window compares to another, we’re here to walk you through it—no pressure, just expertise.
How to Evaluate Your Current Windows
If you’re unsure whether your existing windows meet current pressure requirements, we can help. During a free consultation, we’ll inspect:
- Your current labels or stamps for DP ratings
- The installation quality and frame condition
- Your local code requirements
Many homes built before 2010 have windows that may no longer meet current Florida code. We’ll help you figure that out—without pressure.
Final Tips: Protecting More Than Glass
At East Coast Windows & Doors, we’ve been helping South Florida homeowners fortify their homes with impact-rated windows and doors for over 25 years. We’ve seen firsthand how the right products can protect property—and people—during major storms. That’s why we stress the importance of design pressure ratings. These aren’t technical footnotes—they’re your home’s frontline defense in a hurricane.
As this year’s hurricane season heats up, preparation means more than just installing impact glass. It means having a plan in place. That’s why we’ve built a dedicated Hurricane Prep Resource Page with free downloadable checklists, storm supply guides, and evacuation tips to help you and your family stay ready—no matter what the forecast says.
And if you’re unsure whether your current windows meet today’s standards, let us take a look. Our team offers free, no-pressure consultations to evaluate your existing windows and recommend options that meet or exceed Florida building code.
Get storm-ready from every angle—explore our Hurricane Prep Page and schedule your free window quote today.
