What HB 185 Could Mean for Florida Homeowners Shopping for Impact-Resistant Garage Doors

If you live in Florida, home hardening isn’t a buzzword — it’s preparation. Your garage door is often the largest opening in your home and one of the most vulnerable structural components during high-wind events. When a garage door fails, internal pressurization can occur, potentially compromising the building envelope.

What Is HB 185?

HB 185 is a proposed Florida bill that would create a sales-and-use tax exemption for certain home hardening products, including impact-resistant garage doors. View the bill here: Florida Senate Bill Tracker – HB 185

1st Reading listed January 13, 2026 | Effective date listed July 1, 2026 if enacted.

Important: A filed bill is not enacted law. It is something to monitor, not assume.

Recognized Testing Standards Referenced

The bill references performance standards including:
• ASTM E1886 / ASTM E1996
• AAMA 506
• Florida Building Code TAS 201 / 202 / 203
• ANSI/DASMA 115

Old Wind-Load vs Current Wind-Load

Florida Building Code requirements have evolved significantly. An older wind-rated door may not meet today’s design pressures, fastening schedules, or exposure classifications. Design pressures depend on wind speed zone, exposure category, building height, and opening size.

Impact Resistance Is About Systems — Not Just Thicker Steel

A properly rated system includes reinforced stiles and rails, structural struts, heavier-gauge track, wind-load-rated anchoring, approved fastener spacing, and correct attachment into framing. Wind force transfers throughout the system.

Prior Florida Exemption Guidance

Review prior Department of Revenue guidance here: Florida Department of Revenue – Impact-Resistant Product FAQs

Previous exemptions required proper labeling, impact ratings, and clear invoice documentation.

Our Position — THE GUARANTEED DIFFERENCE™

At Guaranteed Garage Doors & Repair, we evaluate whether your existing system meets current Florida Building Code standards. We recommend upgrades only when structural performance requires it.

We Live Here, We Give Here™ reflects how we operate — integrity in construction, clarity in documentation, and protection aligned with THE GUARANTEED DIFFERENCE™.