To provide your window with enough strength to endure all things possible, there are two things that matters the most: the choice of window you make and the manner in which, it was installed. Ideally, a window should be able to endure the impact of a 9 pound 2×4 missile with a speed velocity of 34 miles per hour. After being hit, it is expected to break but in no way whatsoever should it penetrate the opening. Meanwhile, both windows and doors should be strong enough to endure 9,000 cycles of positive and negative air pressure, which is exactly the velocity of an actual hurricane.

In order to meet such dire demands, manufacturers of windows all over America use windows similar to those used in heavy-duty automobiles. They are impenetrable and strong. The standard for this is the same nationwide an interlayer of clear plastic is sandwiched between two layers of glass. There are two types of inter-layering materials available in the market: SentryGlas Plus (SGP) that is more rigid and durable; Polyvinyl butyral (PVB). With its characteristic strength, SGP is the material of choice for larger windows or for those that are meant to withstand the highest quality of wind.

In terms of glazing, it should also through some very rigorous testing. For instance, a silicone sealant may be at right strength to survive in zone 3 impact wind tests but it will most likely fail if you subject it to zone 4. In higher wind velocity it is expected for the windows to fly out and get detached from its frame, so to survive in higher zones, these windows make use of construction-type adhesive for their glazing system. In other words, windows in Florida are constructed using high performance glue.

The window frames are another thing. They receive specific reinforcement to meet quality standards and a certain company makes use of a single piece sill plate, as well as interlocking meeting rails to prevent leakage into your homes and to be able to tie the sash together when they are tightly closed. The inclusions of heavy-duty locks are also essential especially for casement-type windows; at the same time, it also holds the window sash in position while it is under negative pressure.

Most major manufacturers are making a habit of constructing high-grade, impact-resistant windows designed to meet protective standards. They undergo testing using the Miami-Dade County hurricane impact test, a gold standard testing procedure that determines whether the windows constructed can survive in actual hurricanes. Florida and most the states along the coastal region have become accustomed to this kind of lifestyle. With the possibility of being hit by winds with the speed of greater than 110mph, it is necessary that residents are prepared to fend for their lives as well as their properties.

As previously mentioned, the method in which the windows are installed is as critical as the window. For a window to survive actual hurricane conditions with about 9,000 cycles of positive and negative air pressure, they have to pass sufficient testing before they are released for distribution. The structure and installation procedure should complement each other. They have to work hand in hand otherwise the other will not matter. It is necessary that the load on the window load be distributed to the building itself; and this is done by providing sufficient anchorage and support.

Lastly, aside from storm benefits, impact-resistant windows can provide added security to homes, reducing break-ins and theft, as well as keeping the outside noise from entering the house and disturbing your peace.

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