There are several types of materials available for hurricane windows – some more secure than others. Here’s a quick guide to the options available, and we’ll show you firsthand what kind of impact a truly hurricane-proof window can handle. Tempered Glass What is it? Tempered glass is heated to approximately 1300 degrees and cooled rapidly, creating a glass that is more resistant to impact and temperature variations than standard glass. When broken, tempered glass shatters into tiny cube-shaped pieces, making it far safer than standard, annealed glass – which breaks into large, dangerous shards. How Strong is it? Tempered glass is approximately 4 to 5 times stronger than standard, annealed glass and is known as “Safety Glass” due to its special, tiny cube breakage pattern. While this glass is stronger than standard annealed glass, it is not technically a “hurricane resistant glass” and will need protecting with some type of hurricane shutter. Laminated Glass What is it? Laminated glass is composed of three layers; two layers of glass with a super strong, clear polyvinyl butyral (a type of plastic) interlayer bonded with heat and pressure. This high-strength interlayer keeps the layers of glass “stuck” in place even when broken. The thickness of each layer varies depending on the application of the window. How Strong is it? Storm Solutions carries PGT windows, the company with the most NOAs (Notice of Acceptance by Miami-Dade County, the highest standard of impact resistance in the country) of any impact-resistant window manufacturer. PGT’s laminated windows are designed to withstand repeated impacts from a 9lb 2×4 flying at 34 miles per hour— they are sure to protect you and your family in the event of a serious storm. Laminated Insulated Glass What is It? Laminated insulated glass consists of two layers – an outer layer of laminated glass and an inner layer of standard glass, usually filled with Argon gas for insulation. These windows not only provide exceptional protection from impacts like their single-paneled counterparts, they also offer sound and temperature control. If you are interested in both hurricane protection and energy efficiency, a laminated insulated window may be right for you. How Strong is it? Laminated insulated glass has generally the same wind and impact resistance properties as laminated glass alone. As we said earlier, that means the glass can handle repeated impacts of a 9lb 2×4 beam traveling at 34 miles per hour! High-Impact Acrylic and Polycarbonate What is It? Optical-grade Acrylic or polycarbonate are ideal alternatives to glass windows. Acrylic and polycarbonate sheeting is lightweight, high-strength, and generally lower cost than standard glass or laminated glass. These glass alternatives offer safety benefits much like laminated or tempered glass in that it does not break easily, and when it does, it holds together rather than breaking into dangerous shards. How Strong is It? Acrylic sheet can withstand 17 times the impact of traditional glass, whereas polycarbonate can withstand an impressive 250 times the impact of glass. Are your home or business windows impact resistant? If you aren’t sure or are looking into making upgrades to your windows, contact Storm Solutions to learn more and to get a free quote today!
