How thick are hurricane impact windows?

Impact windows use thick laminated glass and sturdy framing materials, which result in a decrease in external noise by as much as 40%. Their overall thickness ranges from 7/16” to 9/16”, as compared to typical single pane glass measuring an average of 1/8”.

How thick is a hurricane window?

You can typically expect your storm windows to have a minimum frame depth of 2-3/4 inches with a minimal nominal wall thickness of . 062, which aids the system in withstanding strong winds.

Are there different grades of impact windows?

There are a few different types of impact windows, which we will discuss later in this article, but it's important to know that the main differences come in style, size, material and degree of protection. A number of standard tests are utilized in order to determine the level of impact resistance they provide.

How thick are PGT windows?

DOUBLE-STRENGTH GLASS (DSB) is a single pane of glass 1/8” thick. This glass thickness is the minimum available in PGT products. PLATE GLASS is a single pane of glass 3/16” thick. This thicker glass is an available option for most PGT windows and is standard in the majority of PGT doors.

Is there a difference between impact windows and hurricane windows?

Hurricane Windows & Impact Windows Are Not the Same

To be considered a hurricane window, a product simply needs to provide a certain level of wind resistance. An impact window, on the other hand, will offer wind resistance as well as protection from impacts.

How to Choose Hurricane Window Protection | Ask This Old House

Can impact windows withstand Category 5?

Hurricane impact windows have advanced to the point where they can withstand Category 5 wind conditions, and the debris that goes with it.

Do you still need hurricane shutters with impact windows?

Most older homes have windows that do not latch, close, or operate properly which can be a nuisance and could also be dangerous in hurricanes; even with hurricane shutters on. With impact hurricane windows and doors you do not need hurricane shutters.

Is tempered glass same as hurricane proof?

Tempered glass is ideal for residential doors and commercial applications that receive a lot of daily wear and tear, as it is more scratch-resistant than other glass types. The strength of tempered glass means it can stand up to strong winds, hurricanes, and other weather events.

What is the strongest window glass?

Laminated Glass (aka “Shatterproof Glass”)

In the window industry, unbreakable laminated glass is often tossed around as “shatterproof glass.” This has become a catch-all term that vaguely defines a certain variety of laminated security glass products.

What type of glass do high impact windows have?

A strong hurricane glass, also called laminated glass, is installed in place of the standard window glass. Hurricane glass is designed to withstand extreme wind speeds as well as protect against wind-borne debris.

What should I look for in a hurricane impact window?

When choosing impact windows, look for high-performing features such as laminated insulating glass, heat-reducing glass tints, and hi-performance low-E selections. In addition to impact- resistance, these windows also offer the benefits of reduced energy bills and protect furnishings, draperies and artwork from fading.

How much should I pay for impact windows?

Average Cost to Install an Impact Window

But on average, expect to pay an average of $8,000 for installation. The range is quite expensive based on the service, material and professional you choose, but it can be between $2,600 and $14,000.

Which hurricane impact windows is best?

The most cost-effective impact window glazing option is tinted laminated glass. Additionally, laminated glass or insulated laminated glass with a LoE coating would deliver even higher energy savings. While both options do cost a little more, they offer the best energy efficiency protection on the market.

Do impact windows reduce insurance?

Saving Money With Impact Windows

Impact windows lower homeowner's insurance because they are designed to resist breaking when struck by wind driven debris. They are typically made with double or even triple pane glass and as an added bonus, they are naturally energy-efficient.

Can you break impact windows?

And because impact windows are made from glass yes can break. That is because they are impact-resistant and not impact-proof. Impact glass is designed to resist heavy blows, and for this reason, it has become the mainstay in windshields for cars, trucks, and busses and more recently houses windows.

Are impact Windows stronger than shutters?

Hurricane shutters don't offer the best protection against debris and high winds. So if you are looking for the ultimate in storm protection, you can't go wrong with hurricane impact resisting windows which will give your home the perfect protection against flying debris, strong winds, and other perils.

Is there such a thing as unbreakable glass windows?

The short answer would be that no, there is no truly unbreakable traditional glass. Still, there are certain glass products that can reinforce or replace standard glass and are either shatter-proof or virtually unbreakable.

What is the weakest type of glass?

Generally, annealed is the weakest glass, followed by heat-strengthened (approximately twice as strong as annealed) and fully tempered (approximately four times as strong as annealed).

Is there a glass that doesn't break?

Polycarbonate Unbreakable Glass

A polycarbonate window is much more difficult to break through than a standard glass window. In fact, according to some estimates a polycarbonate window is over 200 times more resistant to impact!

How do you tell if your windows are hurricane proof?

-Check for Labels

Impact resistant glass from hurricane windows does not often have a permanent mark of this kind. You can also check for a temporary label on the glass that might outline the thickness, the manufacturing date, and the place of creation. This label will tell you if it's a hurricane window or not.

Is impact glass on inside or outside?

A common misconception is that people think impact glass is indestructible, but this is not the case. The sacrificial piece of the glass on the outside will shatter, but the vinyl inner prevents the entire pane from breaking which allows the seal to remain intact.

Can hurricane glass shatter?

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.

Are hurricane impact windows worth the cost?

Impact windows do cost more than traditional windows, but they very well may pay for themselves by preventing extensive and expensive damage to your home. They are also more efficient, saving on energy costs, and can help significantly increase the value of your home and reduce your homeowners' insurance costs.

How long do impact windows last?

Like any product, windows have a life expectancy. Many impact windows are rated to function properly from 10 to 25 years, depending on the brand and materials. At the 10-year mark, it starts to become more important to evaluate your windows, knowing that they are reaching an age where they may soon need to be replaced.

What wind speed are impact windows rated for?

Category 1: 74-95 mph. Category 2: 96-110 mph. Category 3: 111-129 mph. Category 4: 130-156 mph.