Understanding Hurricane Product Approvals: Anchored vs Unanchored Storefront Window Jambs

Understanding Hurricane Product Approvals: Anchored vs Unanchored Storefront Window Jambs. The anchoring detail pages will show all of the installation conditions the product has been tested and engineered for and sometimes the actual frame profiles may change.

In this case the steel reinforced jamb on the right is 3-1/4" wide vs 1-7/8" for the anchored jamb on the left. Another important consideration that needs to be planned for is the shim space needs to be larger to accommodate frame deflection under wind load.

A 10'-12' tall unanchored jamb may deflect as much as 1/2" and what does that do to the finishes around the window? The perimeter sealants also need to have the ability to stretch and not fail that distance so the products used are critical.

I help architects, builders, and owners select, specify, and detail luxury residential hurricane glazing systems without manufacturer or dealer biases.

From just one hour to as many hours as you need a glazing expert for your project.

I also give classes in all aspects of hurricane windows and doors on glass aesthetics and energy performance, manufacturer product overviews, detailed installation planning and best practices, and understanding hurricane product approvals.