Impact windows are also referred to as hurricane windows and are designed to exceed standard window protection for homes against intense weather conditions. These are preferred and often required in hurricane- and tornado-prone areas and those exposed to other extreme conditions.
The glass is specially engineered with multiple layers including a durable interlayer of polyvinyl butyral that keeps it intact. Even under extreme force, the glass resists shattering, reducing the risk of dangerous shards invading the interior space and causing harm.
Impact windows undergo rigorous testing to ensure they can tolerate direct impact from flying debris and high wind velocities. These are an ideal choice for those looking to heighten their defense against natural disasters and improve overall safety.
The benefits extend to any household, however, seeking to upgrade their windows for extra durability, security, and energy efficiency.
Types Of Impact Windows
There are a range of impact windows available from many manufacturers. Many homeowners are curious what hurricane windows are made of ; fortunately, each offers unique materials and styles to accommodate varying aesthetic preferences and functional requirements. Below are common options.
Materials
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Aluminum:
Aluminum is a lightweight material albeit strong with excellent weather- and corrosion-resistance. It’s a favored choice for the coastal region for its sleek aesthetic and high durability.
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Vinyl:
Vinyl is another durable choice and offers cost-efficiency and minimal maintenance requirements. It provides natural insulation and moisture-resistance, making it a good option for many homes.
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Composite:
Composite materials are a blend of varied materials for sound strength, added appeal, and enhanced insulation. These are a versatile option and can be customized to suit individual aesthetic preferences.
Styles
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Fixed:
The fixed style window does not open, but these are a good option for an unobstructed view and maximizing the light. They’re better in areas where ventilation isn’t a priority like with large picture windows or higher walls.
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Single- or Double-Hung:
These are classic styles with either one or two sashes for raising or lowering, simple and straightforward operation and ventilation as needed.
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Casement:
Casement windows open outward and are hinged on the sides allowing maximum ventilation. When closed, these give a tight seal for optimal energy efficiency.
The Construction Process for Impact Resistant Windows
High-impact windows are built to tolerate extreme weather conditions and other threats. Three key elements are used in the construction.
Shatter-Resistant Glass Panes
High-density, shatter resistant and flexible glass panes capable of tolerating heavy impacts without cracking are used in the construction. The outer or “sacrificial” pane protects the inner layer. If it were to break, to preserve the integrity of the house.
The Laminate Sheet
The secret to these windows lies in the laminate layer situated between the panes. It consists of an advanced polymer often either a PVB – polyvinyl butyral or SGB – SentryGuard Plus unique and highly durable formulas.
The laminate adds a layer of insulation, flexibility and protection between the panes and it is UV-resistant.
Solid Frame
The solid frame seals the fused glass; it must be secure and well-sealed for optimal protection against air pressure and potential water intrusion in the areas surrounding the glass.
Testing Of Impact Windows
The ASTM – American Society for Testing and Materials provides the standard for certifying impact-resistant window multi-point durability. Some critical testing that models are exposed to includes:
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Small Missile:
Small 2-gram steel balls strike the wind at 90 mph, traveling 130 feet per second.
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Large Missile:
A two-by-four wood plank weight roughly nine pounds is used to strike windows, shot by a cannon at 50 feet per second.
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Rapid Pressure Changes:
These windows can tolerate 9000 cycles of rapid pressure changes, which shows resistance against hurricane’s air pressure effects.
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Wind Simulation:
Windows can tolerate up to 200 mph velocities.
Protection For Your Home Against Hurricanes and Storms
High-impact window unique layering provides significant household protection in extreme weather conditions like hurricanes and the effects they produce. This can include high velocity winds, flying debris, driving rain, air pressure intrusion, and the risk of broken glass if the outer glass pane breaks.
The Debris/Projectiles
The primary function of impact-resistant windows is to protect the house from flying debris and projectiles resulting from high winds in hurricanes and other extreme weather.
The shatter-resistant glass, flexible laminate interlayer, and strong two-pane construction combine for highly durable and effective protection.
The Outer Pane
When an impact is forceful enough to break the glass, typically only the outer pane will rack. The insulating and flexible laminate protects the inner pane from absorbing the same force.
Plus, the seal on the outer pane remains intact. This design ensures the house is protected from rain, wind, or continued flying debris as the storm plays out. The shards of glass from the broken layer are less likely to fall reducing the risk for damages outside the house.
Protection Against Wind
Driving rain and strong winds can intrude into the home through loose window frames. These windows are pre-sealed into sturdy frames to protect against water and wind intrusion.
This helps to prevent water damage from extreme weather events. The seal further acts as a year-round protection against moisture intrusion in a humid climate like Florida.
Air Pressure Damage
One of the most devastating aspects of a hurricane is the forced air pressure coming through the windows. When this happens, the intensity of the wind inside the house can raise the inside air pressure significantly.
The pressure pushing outwards is not a force that houses were built to resist and can result in walls or even the roof collapsing. With sealed windows built to resist extreme-weather-strength winds, homes are protected from these devastating risks.
Final Thought
Upgrading your home to have impact-resistant windows is a valuable long-term investment. Read here to find out if impact windows increase your home value.
Not only can you have peace of mind that your house will be protected when alerted of extreme weather or evacuated to a safer location, but the window will provide excellent energy efficiency, durability, security, and extended longevity.
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