There are a few things you can look for when trying to determine if a window is impact resistant. One is the type of glass that the window is made from. Tempered glass is often used in windows that are designed to be impact resistant, as it is much stronger than standard glass. Another thing to look for is a label or certification from a reputable organization, such as the American Society for Testing and Materials (ATSM). This label indicates that the window has been tested to withstand a certain level of impact. Finally, you can also ask the manufacturer or retailer of the window if it is impact resistant.
What are the benefits of impact-resistant windows?
The benefits of impact-resistant windows are many, but most notably, they can significantly improve the safety of your home or office. In the event of a severe weather event, such as a tornado or hurricane, impact-resistant windows can help protect your property from wind and debris damage. They can also deter would-be burglars, as the force required to break through impact-resistant glass is considerable. And, in the event of an accidental breakage, impact-resistant glass is much less likely to cause serious injury than traditional window glass.
How do I know if a window is impact-resistant?
There are a few things you can look for to see if a window is impact-resistant. First, check to see if the window is certified by a third-party organization like UL or Intertek. These organizations test products to see if they meet certain safety standards. If the window is certified, it will have a label from one of these organizations.
Another way to tell if a window is impact-resistant is to look at the glass itself. Impact-resistant glass is usually thicker than regular glass and has a plastic layer in between the layers of glass. This plastic layer helps to hold the glass together in the event of an impact.
If you are still unsure, you can always contact the manufacturer of the window to ask about its impact resistance.
What are the installation requirements for impact-resistant windows?
There are several factors to consider when selecting impact-resistant windows for a home or building. The first is the location of the structure. Homes and buildings in hurricane-prone coastal areas are required to have impact-resistant windows and doors to meet building code requirements. The next step is to determine the window size and style that is best suited for the structure. The most popular impact-resistant window style is the roll-down shutters. These shutters can be manually or electronically operated and can be used to protect window openings of all sizes. Another window style that is growing in popularity is the impact-resistant window film. This clear film is applied to the interior or exterior of existing windows and helps to hold glass together in the event of an impact. The final factor to consider when selecting impact-resistant windows is the budget. Roll-down shutters and impact-resistant window film can be more expensive upfront than traditional windows, but they offer protection from storms and break-ins, which can save money in the long run.
What are the code requirements for impact-resistant windows?
Due to the potential for strong winds and flying debris during a severe weather event, many areas now have code requirements for impact-resistant windows. These windows are typically made with laminated glass, which is a type of safety glass that is designed to hold together even when shattered.
In order to meet code requirements, impact-resistant windows must be able to withstand a certain level of wind pressure and impact from flying debris. They are usually tested by firing a missile at the window at a high speed, and the window must not shatter or allow the missile to penetrate through to the other side.
Impact-resistant windows can provide a significant level of protection for your home or business during a severe weather event. They can help to keep out flying debris, keep the interior of your building from becoming damaged, and can even help to protect against wind and water damage. If you live in an area that is prone to severe weather, it is important to check with your local code requirements to see if impact-resistant windows are required.
Frequently Asked Questions
What do the hurricane ratings on the window impact ratings mean?
The impact ratings indicate that the window has been tested according to Miami-Dade county hurricane resistance standards, and are thus appropriate for use anywhere in Florida or in other hurricane zones in the southeastern United States.
What are high impact windows?
High impact windows are what you want — if you want your house to have a better chance of surviving a hurricane! The most common way to achieve impact resistance in windows and doors is to select a product that uses laminated glass. “Laminated glass” is comprised of 2 panes of glass bonded together with a strong,...
How do I know if the windows in my home are impact resistant?
A visual inspection should give you the information you need.
What is an impact resistant window?
An impact resistant window is made of durable materials and designed to resist shattering when struck. The window is engineered with laminated glass and held in place by layers of durable material that stays intact after impact, protecting against extreme wind and flying debris.
What type of Impact windows can withstand a hurricane?
Alco products are designed to resist wind speeds up to hurricane category 5. Alco impact windows with a DP 50 or greater rating can withstand strong winds and potential storm damage.
