The Full Impact of Hurricane Resistant Windows

THE CODE

The code fundamentally breaks down the technique to meet the higher window load requirements in two approaches:  the window itself, and its installation.  It says that the window have to be in a position to withstand the "huge missile impact" of a 9 pound 2x4 hitting the window at a speed of 34 miles per hour devoid of penetrating the opening. The glass may perhaps break, but the opening need to not be penetrated. Then, the windows and doors also have to withstand 9,000 cycles of positive and negative air pressure, such that a actual hurricane could pull a regular windows suitable out of its frame.

THE WINDOW

To meet the penetration restriction, window manufacturer's all use a related type of impact window glass that's considerably like a heavy duty automobile window.  Florida's Best Windows and Doors manufacturing procedure is basically the identical as it is with most window manufacturer's:  their style consists of a clear plastic interlayer sandwiched among two panes of glass.  Two kinds of interlayer are made use of:  Polyvinyl butyral (PVB) and SentryGlas Plus (SGP).  The SGP is more rigid and much less likely to tear than PVB.  For that cause, some producers use it in their larger windows, or those windows designed for the highest wind zones. 

The glazing program is also an valuable factor: a silicone sealant that could possibly be powerful enough to hold the glass in place in a Zone 3 impact test, but would most likely fail in a Zone 4 test, causing the window to fly out of its frame.  Windows in the higher test category would rather use some thing even more like a construction adhesive for its glazing method. "The difference, says Kurt Mendez of Florida's Most beneficial, is among Elmer's glue and super glue."

Window producers also reinforce the frames in order to meet specifications.  Lawson Industries makes use of a one particular piece sill plate (this also aids to avoid water leaks into the house) and interlocking meeting rails which ties the sash together when shut.  Heavier locks also place a role in meeting impact tests, as they can be important on specific varieties of windows, such as casements.  For a casement window, the only factor holding the window sash in spot below negative pressure is the hinge on one side and the lock on the other.