Hurricane Windows — What You Need to Know

According to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), the 2020 Atlantic hurricane season is expected to be busier than normal. As we write this, Hurricane Isaias has made landfall in North Carolina, and is blasting the Mid-Atlantic region. While Isaias is mainly bringing heavy rain, anyone who has been through a major hurricane knows that traditional windows break easily when there is flying debris. If you live in Florida, Georgia, the Carolinas, Alabama, Louisiana, or Texas, you may be considering installing hurricane windows in your home, business, or school.

At Quality Glass Block and Window, we think that’s a smart choice. And, we have the window products you need for hurricane season. Our custom-made Seves Glass Block  hurricane impact windows are built to offer you protection from flying debris and hurricane force winds. They meet or exceed the highest standards of Miami-Dade County Product Control Section and the Texas Department of Insurance. They also meet specifications to pass the large missile and small missile impact tests referenced in the International Building Code, ASTM E-1886 and ASTM E-1996.

The large-missile test involves hurling a 6-foot long 2×4 weighing 9 pounds at 50’ per second in laboratory conditions. To pass this test, the window glazing and framing must remain intact. The small-missile test involves hurling 30 pieces of steel ball bearings or gravel at 80’ per second in laboratory conditions. To meet the stringent building code standards, the window must survive the test intact.

Pre-assembled glass block hurricane windows are suitable for both residential and light commercial applications in hurricane prone areas. They are both strong and beautiful. The  glass blocks and pressure-applied silicone give an all-glass look. The scratch-resistant glass block allows for privacy and light transmission, eliminating the need for window treatments. In addition, there is no need for shutters with these windows. 

Hurricane Impact Windows vs Hurricane Proof Windows

There really is no such thing as hurricane proof windows, and anyone trying to sell you such a product is trying to fool you. Rather, hurricane impact windows, such as the ones we sell at Quality Glass Block and Window, are hurricane resistant/impact resistant. They will withstand hurricane-force winds, and they will resist flying debris such as tree limbs, telephone poles, gutters, siding, and more.  As an added bonus, these windows are graffiti resistant and enhance curb appeal.

No window is entirely hurricane-proof, but glass block hurricane-resistant windows have enormous benefits:

• Will withstand Category 5 hurricane-force winds up to 200 mph without blowing out
• Impact resistant
• No flying shards of glass
• Available in custom sizes and several glass block patterns
• Thicker than other hurricane windows
• Offer sound insulation 
• Blocks 99% of transmitted UV light
• Offer increased security
• May reduce homeowners insurance costs*

*In Florida, a law passed in 2002 requires homeowner’s insurance companies to give you up to a 45% discount on your insurance premium if you install hurricane windows and doors. Contact your agent for specifics. 

These windows are a permanent solution to your hurricane protection problems, at least from wind damage or damage from flying debris. It should be noted that they can’t help you with storm surge.