Can Hurricane Windows Break?
Hurricane windows are a popular choice in Florida. At ASP Windows we make them withstand the strong winds of hurricanes. As well as withstand direct blows from wind-strewn debris, like tree branches. But just how strong are impact windows? Many believe that storms can’t break impact glass and that they provide an impenetrable barrier. But is impact glass strong enough to withstand even the most severe of blows? Can hurricane windows break?
Can Hurricane Windows Break?
Put simply, yes, impact windows can break. That is because they are impact-resistant and not impact-proof. Impact glass is designed to resist heavy blows, hence it became popular as windshields for vehicles. Like a car’s windshield, however, it can break when struck by excessive forces.
How is Impact Glass Constructed?
Hurricane windows are designed with three layers. The outer layers are composed of glass, while the inner layer is a polyvinyl butyral (PVD) compound. When these three layers are fused through either heat-treating or lamination, the result is a strong, durable glass which can withstand continuous windspeeds of up to 200 mph or direct strikes by 2x4s and other debris.
In fact, a post-Hurricane Katrina assessment determined that most of the building damage was caused by the breaching of the structures through an opening such as windows and doors. It was these findings which led to the development and regulation of impact glass for homes and businesses.
So, while impact glass can indeed break, the internal PVD polymer keeps the glass from shattering. Exactly in the same manner as typical window panes. This means that while an impact window can shatter, the glass will remain in place. Thus providing an element of safety before the window can be replaced. For this reason, hurricane windows are an excellent choice in South Florida, not just for the safety they offer in storms, but also as a way of preventing break-ins.
Repairing Broken Impact Glass
Fortunately, if your impact windows are damaged by a storm or an attempted robbery, they can be easily repaired by the contractor who installed your windows and doors. A certified contractor, such as the experts at ASP Windows, can quickly assess the scope of the problem, carefully remove the laminate or glazing, and replace the damaged glass insert with a new piece of hurricane glass of the same thickness and size.
Replace Your Old Windows and Doors Today
If you are considering replacing your old windows and doors with hurricane-resistant impact windows and doors, make sure you only choose the highest quality. With impact windows and doors, there are differing standards of quality. Choose a manufacturer and contractor with the technology and experience to keep you and your family safe.
At ASP Windows, we have an unmatched selection of the finest impact windows and doors to ensure your home is safe from the perils of hurricane season. Not only that, but they can protect your home from break-ins and can even help lower your energy usage and costs. ASP Windows is a family-owned and operated business who knows what it means to be a Floridian during tropical storms. So, if you’re looking to upgrade to impact windows and doors, call us today at 888-782-8342 today.
