Exterior doors and Florida codes

If anyone is familiar with Florida codes for exterior doors, I could use some advice. I need an exterior front entry door (opens out) and we would really prefer something decent looking that doesn't cost $2,000. The home improvement stores are not much help. For example, I was looking at a $400 fiberglass door with one of those waist-to-top oval glass windows, marked "Miami-Dade" on the package, but the salesman tells me that only the glass is impact rated. The door itself is not, and that it would need outside storm panels mounted on the frame (not the door) to meet code. Of course, the door wouldn't open when the panels are mounted. He also said that the only doors that meet code without exterior shutters are steel - all pretty ugly.

I need an exterior front entry door (opens out), would prefer something decent looking, and don't mind installing panels during hurricane season, but they would have to be on the door (not the frame) for egress because the back French doors are already without access when their panels are mounted.

My question is, what are my options?

 

Hi Suobs,
Just read about a new door, will try to find the article. It had a steel perforated panel bonded in the middle. Pretty sure it was fiberglass. Just cannot remember the brand.

I would suggest you go to a real lumber yard. The boxes can be ok, but the people only know about what they have available. Many of the manufacturers do not sell their higher quality product thru them, only thru lumber yards and construction supply houses.

Best in 2008