The Immense Power of Hurricane Proof Windows

Impact windows have without a doubt saved lives since their inception over a hundred years ago, and are used in all kinds of applications today. To see an example of how common such technology is now, one only needs to consider the many hurricane proof windows Palm Beach County residents utilize. In fact, most houses near the coast of Florida utilize either impact windows or impact shutters to protect their family during the annual hurricane season.

 

The damage typically caused by hurricanes isn’t always the wind itself, rather what the wind has picked up and thrown through the neighborhood. Whether it’s trees, power poles, or furniture, when thrown at high speeds these things can cause a lot of damage, which is why impact windows have to be so strong. Although these aren’t the only things that could potentially hit your windows at high speed.

 

So here’s a look at the immense power of hurricane proof windows Palm Beach County and throughout the rest of Florida.

Built to Withstand

Impact windows are heavily tested before they’re put on the market, to ensure that they can withstand extreme winds and impact from a variety of objects. To make them impact-resistant, they usually consist of two panes of glass, usually with a Polyvinyl Butyral (PVB) membrane in between to stop shattering. This means if the glass does break, it usually stays together in one piece rather than shattering into shards. This means that, during a hurricane, the glass may still serve to keep some of the water and wind out, even after a break. And afterwards, it’s much easier to clean up than your typical pane of broken glass.

Impact Testing

Impact windows are tested by the American Society for Testing and Materials (ASTM), who do so by subjecting the windows to impact by missiles and wind pressure. Generally speaking, there are three tests which windows will be put through:

 

• Large missile impact test – this involves launching a piece of 2×4 at the window at 80 feet per second. If the window holds together it moves on to the next test.
• Small missile impact test – this involves shooting 10 small projectiles at the window at 80 feet per second. Should the window withstand this it’s on to the final test.
• Wind pressure test – after the first two tests, the same glass is then subject to wind pressure of up to 200 miles per hour and the window must remain within the frame.

Passing these three tests proves that the impact window is capable of doing it’s job during a hurricane, although they also imply the ability to withstand impact from other things.

Common Household Missiles

It’s hard to imagine someone who hasn’t seen some kind of ball go through a window from children playing in the backyard. It’s such a common occurrence that many TV shows and movies depict the various scenarios that play out afterwards. Although what is often forgotten is how dangerous these shards of glass can be when handled by regretful children.

This is just one example of the kinds of missiles we can expect around our homes, which can also be stopped by quality impact windows. Even if a ball does break your impact window, the membrane should hold all of the glass together, which means no dangerous shards floating around for little hands to cut themselves on.

Animals vs Windows

Without the same cognitive function we have, most animals aren’t even aware of the glass that separates the inside from the outside world. Whether it’s a bird, cat, or dog, these poor critters don’t mean to throw all their weight into our windows, but when they do it can be catastrophic. Impact windows can ensure that they don’t hurt themselves (other than a bump on the head), nor cause you any expensive repairs.

Stops the Robbers

Another commonly considered use of impact windows is how they can stop intruders from breaking into your home. Some impact window glass manufacturers have proven this by attempting to break in through the impact windows, to no avail. Again if they do break it, the glass is likely to still block entry, and in the worst case scenario will be much easier to clean up.

Protect your Family with Hurricane Proof Windows

The stopping power of hurricane proof windows Palm Beach County and elsewhere is immense, they are truly a force to be reckoned with. Not only will you be protecting your family and home, but also your wallet. Contact us today to see how we can help install hurricane proof windows in your home.