Impact doors are more than just sturdy entryways. They’re a vital layer of protection for your home, especially in storm-prone areas like Charleston, SC. Whether you’re dealing with hurricane winds, debris, or break-in risks, these doors provide lasting defense, energy efficiency, and peace of mind.
This blog explains exactly what impact doors are, outlines the key benefits, and shows why MW Millworks is Charleston’s trusted choice for custom, high-performance impact doors.
What Are Impact Doors?
Impact doors are specially engineered to withstand extreme conditions, such as high winds, flying debris, and forced entry—without compromising on style or energy efficiency. They’re ideal for homes in storm-prone areas, offering lasting protection and performance.
Key Takeaways:
- Made with reinforced frames and laminated impact glass
- Meet stringent testing standards (e.g., Miami-Dade certification)
- Often used in hurricane zones for protection.
Impact doors are exterior doors built with heavy-duty materials and advanced construction techniques to resist powerful impacts and pressure. At MW Millworks, our doors are tested to withstand 2×4 projectiles fired at 34 mph and subjected to over 9,000 pressure cycles—meeting Category 5 hurricane standards.
Top 5 Benefits of Impact Doors
Impact doors offer more than just storm protection—they enhance your home’s overall safety, comfort, and value. From energy savings to added security, these doors are a wise investment for any homeowner.
Top Benefits:
- Storm Protection – Built to withstand hurricanes, high winds, and flying debris.
- Increased Security – Multi-point locks and reinforced materials prevent break-ins.
- Energy Efficiency – Laminated glass and tight seals help reduce energy consumption and utility bills.
- Noise Reduction – Blocks external noise from traffic, neighbors, and weather.
- Home Value Boost – Premium construction adds long-term value and curb appeal.
Each door is thoroughly tested and certified to meet the highest safety standards, then custom-built to complement the unique architectural style of Charleston homes. From historic charm to modern coastal design, every door is crafted with precision and purpose.
Why Charleston Homes Need Impact Doors
In Charleston, where powerful coastal storms and strict building codes are a constant concern, impact doors are more than a luxury; they’re a necessity. These doors offer protection, meet local regulations, and can even save you money.
Key Takeaways:
- Charleston lies within a High-Velocity Hurricane Zone (HVHZ).
- Impact-rated doors meet local code requirements (DP-50+).
- Insurance premiums may be lower with certified impact installations.
Living near the coast means exposure to sudden tropical storms. MW Millworks offers impact doors that not only meet but also exceed local wind-load codes, making them ideal for both new construction and historic renovations.
What Makes MW Millworks Stand Out
MW Millworks stands out for its in-house craftsmanship, top-tier materials, and rigorous product testing—delivering quality you can see and trust.
Why Homeowners Trust MW Millworks:
- Custom-Built in Charleston – Designed, milled, and assembled locally.
- Miami-Dade Certified – Independently tested for hurricane-level resistance.
- Architectural Authenticity – Matches historic home profiles, sizes, and finishes.
- Premium Hardware Options – Multi-point locks from Hoppe, Ives, and others.
- Dedicated Team – Led by experienced artisans and engineers with decades in the trade.
MW Millworks seamlessly integrates form and function, blending modern engineering with traditional craftsmanship to create doors that are both durable and beautiful. Every detail is designed to enhance performance while preserving the timeless style of your home.
FAQs About Impact Doors
- Do I need impact doors if I don’t live right on the water?
- Yes. Even if you’re not on the coast, inland areas can still experience strong winds and flying debris during severe storms. Impact doors offer crucial protection for homes in storm-prone regions.
- Yes. Even if you’re not on the coast, inland areas can still experience strong winds and flying debris during severe storms. Impact doors offer crucial protection for homes in storm-prone regions.
- Are impact doors more expensive?
- Impact doors typically have a higher upfront cost due to their reinforced materials and construction. However, they can save money over time by lowering energy bills, reducing storm damage, and even qualifying for insurance discounts.
- Impact doors typically have a higher upfront cost due to their reinforced materials and construction. However, they can save money over time by lowering energy bills, reducing storm damage, and even qualifying for insurance discounts.
- Can I get custom designs?
- Absolutely. MW Millworks specializes in fully custom impact doors, offering a variety of styles and finishes to match your home’s architecture and aesthetic.
- Absolutely. MW Millworks specializes in fully custom impact doors, offering a variety of styles and finishes to match your home’s architecture and aesthetic.
- How long do they last?
- With proper care, these doors can last for decades. Their durability and high-quality materials make them a long-term investment in your home’s safety and value.
- With proper care, these doors can last for decades. Their durability and high-quality materials make them a long-term investment in your home’s safety and value.
- Can I replace just one door with an impact-rated version?
- Yes. You can upgrade a single door or multiple entries depending on your needs. Replacing even one door can boost your home’s protection and efficiency.
Impact doors are a functional and stylish investment—especially for homeowners in Charleston.
Protect your home from storms and theft while improving energy efficiency and curb appeal with fully custom, hurricane-rated doors. By choosing a local expert like MW Millworks, you’ll get high-quality craftsmanship tailored to your home’s unique needs.
Ready to protect your home with Charleston’s best-built impact doors? Explore our gallery and contact MW Millworks today to request a custom quote!