In recent decades, the intensification of hurricanes and severe weather has made resilient construction an urgent priority, particularly in coastal regions. Buildings are no longer judged solely by aesthetics or basic function; structural performance under extreme conditions has become a critical benchmark. In response, specialized manufacturers like Global Impact Products (GIP) have emerged as leaders in providing impact-resistant glass and aluminum solutions that protect homes and commercial spaces while meeting stringent building codes.
Based in Pompano Beach, Florida, GIP is a woman-owned business founded by industry veterans with over 40 years of experience. The company focuses on delivering windows, doors, railings, and curtain walls designed to resist both small and large missile impacts, as defined by hurricane code standards such as Florida’s High Velocity Hurricane Zone (HVHZ) requirements. These systems not only prevent structural failure during storms but also enhance energy efficiency, security, and long-term durability.
Global Impact Products is more than a local supplier; its operations now span multiple markets, with global shipping capabilities and a range of offerings for both new construction and retrofit projects. The company emphasizes customization, ensuring that each project aligns with aesthetic preferences, functional requirements, and rigorous safety standards. Recent expansions underscore GIP’s commitment to growth and community impact, positioning the company as a pivotal player in the architecture and construction industries.
A Legacy of Experience and Vision
Global Impact Products was established to combine decades of industry expertise with a vision of advanced architectural solutions. Founders recognized the need for high-quality impact-resistant systems that go beyond minimum code requirements, offering both performance and design flexibility.
The company’s team manages full product development, from design and fabrication to installation, delivering complete architectural glass, curtain walls, storefronts, and thermal products suitable for diverse climates. By integrating all stages of production under one roof, GIP ensures consistency in quality, compliance with stringent building codes, and responsiveness to client needs.
Product Portfolio and Innovations
Global Impact Products offers a comprehensive range of impact-resistant solutions tailored for residential and commercial applications:
Aluminum Windows and Doors: Heavy-duty aluminum systems, including the 1000 Series Single Hung, 2000 Series Horizontal Roller, and 3000 Series Fixed windows, are rated for both small and large missile impact. These products come in customizable colors and finishes, combining strength, durability, and visual appeal.
Thermal and Vinyl Solutions: For colder climates, GIP produces vinyl and thermally broken products that provide insulation and energy efficiency without compromising structural performance.
Design-Build and Retrofit Applications: Whether for new construction or retrofits, GIP’s products meet code requirements while offering architectural flexibility. Their systems can be adapted to complex projects, from large commercial curtain walls to residential storm protection solutions.
The company’s approach reflects a philosophy that prioritizes performance without sacrificing design, allowing architects and developers to deliver buildings that are both resilient and visually compelling.
Commitment to Code Compliance
Central to GIP’s success is a deep understanding of building codes and testing standards. Products are engineered to comply with Florida’s HVHZ standards, which are among the strictest in the United States. These regulations dictate performance requirements for impact resistance, wind load, and structural integrity under extreme conditions.
Impact-resistant glass incorporates multiple layers bonded with polymer interlayers, such as polyvinyl butyral (PVB), ensuring that even when glass fractures, it remains intact and prevents debris penetration. Coupled with robust aluminum frames, these systems withstand high-velocity impacts and fluctuating pressures during storms, safeguarding both occupants and property.
Compliance with these codes not only ensures safety but also affects insurance, property valuation, and project approval. Global Impact Products’ expertise in navigating these regulatory requirements makes it a trusted partner for developers, homeowners, and architects alike.
Strategic Expansion and Economic Impact
In 2025, Global Impact Products announced a $14 million expansion into a 100,000-square-foot facility in Panama City, Florida. This strategic move serves multiple purposes:
Increased Manufacturing Capacity: The facility enhances production efficiency, allowing the company to meet rising demand for impact-rated products across North America.
Job Creation: The expansion is expected to generate 150 new jobs, supporting the local economy and providing opportunities in advanced manufacturing.
Global Supply Chain Optimization: Proximity to Panama City’s port facilitates import of raw materials from Mexico and other regions, streamlining logistics and reducing lead times.
The Panama City project underscores GIP’s commitment to regional development while positioning the company to compete on a broader scale, combining local expertise with global reach.
Engineering Resilience: How Impact-Resistant Glass Works
The effectiveness of impact-resistant systems lies in their materials and engineering. Laminated glass, consisting of multiple layers of glass bonded with interlayers, absorbs and disperses energy from high-velocity debris. Aluminum framing provides structural integrity, ensuring that windows and doors maintain their function under pressure and impact.
Systems are tested for both small and large missile impact scenarios, simulating debris such as wooden planks or metal objects propelled by hurricane winds. Additionally, frames are evaluated for wind-load resistance, cyclic pressure performance, and long-term durability. These engineering standards ensure that the systems can protect occupants, prevent water intrusion, and preserve structural integrity even during the most severe weather events.
Market Trends and Demand Drivers
Rising awareness of climate risk and stricter building regulations have expanded the market for impact-resistant systems. Coastal development, insurance requirements, and consumer preference for resilient homes and commercial spaces all drive demand.
Even outside hurricane zones, developers increasingly specify impact-resistant glass for enhanced security, acoustic control, and energy efficiency. This trend reflects a broader global emphasis on resilient design and climate adaptation, where high-performance building materials are no longer optional but essential.
Despite higher upfront costs, the long-term benefits of reduced storm damage, lower insurance premiums, and extended building lifespan make these products economically advantageous. Companies like Global Impact Products demonstrate that innovation, compliance, and market responsiveness can coexist with profitability.
Global Implications and Future Outlook
While based in Florida, GIP’s influence extends internationally. Regions prone to typhoons, cyclones, or extreme wind events are exploring impact-resistant solutions as climate change intensifies storm severity.
The company’s products, combining advanced materials, code compliance, and design flexibility, exemplify a broader movement toward resilient construction. Architects, engineers, and policymakers are increasingly prioritizing systems that anticipate future conditions, emphasizing not just recovery but preparedness.
Global Impact Products’ strategic expansion, technological focus, and commitment to quality position it to meet this evolving global demand. As storms grow stronger and urban populations in coastal zones increase, resilient building solutions will remain indispensable.
Conclusion
Global Impact Products illustrates how innovation, engineering, and regulatory expertise can intersect to meet pressing safety challenges. Through its range of impact-resistant glass and aluminum systems, the company not only protects buildings and occupants but also fosters economic growth and global reach. In an era defined by extreme weather and climate uncertainty, the combination of resilient design, compliance, and thoughtful expansion underscores the essential role of companies like GIP in shaping safer, more durable built environments.
FAQs
What types of products does Global Impact Products offer?
They provide impact-resistant windows, doors, railings, curtain walls, and thermal solutions for residential and commercial projects.
Why are impact windows important in hurricane-prone areas?
They prevent wind and debris from breaching structures, protecting occupants and minimizing property damage.
Does the company serve cold climates?
Yes, Global Impact Products offers vinyl and thermally broken products suitable for colder regions.
Where is the company expanding its manufacturing?
GIP is opening a 100,000-square-foot facility in Panama City, Florida, creating approximately 150 jobs.
How does impact-resistant glass work?
Multiple layers of laminated glass with polymer interlayers absorb and disperse energy, keeping glass intact during high-velocity impacts.
