The frequency of hurricanes and tropical storms along the coast is a huge concern. So manufacturers and home builders needed to step up their game to meet the stringent Florida building codes. Impact resistant windows are one of the upgrades. These windows protect your home immediately after installation. No need for boards or hurricane shutters.
Much like the glass in your car, impact resistant windows contain a thin layer of Polyvinyl Butyral (PVB). This resin, when pressed between two or more panes of glass, prevents the glass from shattering on impact. Instead, the glass might break, but the membrane remains intact. It holds the glass shards in place. Combine that with the sturdier frames, and you have a window that holds up against gale force winds and flying debris.
Advantages of Impact Resistant Windows
These specialized windows protect against:
1. Projectiles
Lumbar, tile, shingles—these get ripped off of buildings and are sent flying during a dangerous storm. This is why impact resistant windows undergo rigorous tests for both large and small missile projectiles. These windows are tested by the North American Fenestration Standard (NAFS) and the American Architectural Manufacturers Association (AAMA). They shoot a nine-pound piece of lumber and 10 small projectiles out of a cannon at different points on the glass. Then they use a machine to blow fluctuating pressures against the glass, both inward and outward. If the hole from the projectile is longer than five inches or allows a three-inch sphere to pass through, the window does not pass.
2. Wind Loads
This is a simple measurement you can find on the Notice of Acceptance (NOA) certification for impact resistant windows. It tells you the wind pressure the window can withstand for each product and dimension. And because the wind can blow both toward and against the structure, you will see both a positive and negative value for this measurement.
3. Burglars
Another benefit of storm safe windows is it makes it almost impossible for intruders to get in through your windows. The glass might shatter, but holes will be small and impassable. That said, firemen do carry a special tool designed to cut the glass for impact resistant windows. That way they can gain admittance to your home in cases of emergency.
4. UV Rays
These harmful rays can damage and fade your fabrics and personal items. Fortunately, there are coatings you can add to impact windows to help block out UV rays. This will cut down on unwanted glare and protect your carpets and furniture against discoloration and fading.
5. Noise
5. NoiseAnother great protection you get with impact windows is noise reduction. If you live by a noisy freeway or airport, these windows will cut down on unwanted outside noise in Pinellas County.
Choosing Clearwater Window & Door Inc for Impact Windows
When installing new impact resistant windows in Pinellas County you want someone who knows the area and stringent building codes. We have been providing Pinellas County and the surrounding area with quality products and service for 50 years. No one knows the location and the products better! Call us today at (727) 559-7007 or feel free to stop by, 2025 Gulf to Bay Blvd, Clearwater, FL 33765.
