Hurricane Window Cyclic Wind Pressure Testing

Hurricane Window Cyclic Wind Pressure Testing - This is where most products fail. 170 mph winds pushing and pulling at the assembly with 50-70 PSF of pressure 3,500 times AFTER being broken by the 2x4 missile impact. The glass has to stay in the sash, the sash has to stay in the frame, the frame has to stay in the opening.

Only trust products that have officially been tested by a third party engineering laboratory and submitted to the State of Florida Building Department for a Florida Product Approval (FPA) for the High Velocity Hurricane Zone (HVHZ) or to Miami Dade for a Notice of Acceptance (NOA).

Structural glazing silicone, multipoint locks, and extensive anchoring are critical components. The system then needs to be installed strictly in accordance with the Product Approval and the surrounding structure needs to be solid enough to support the load around the entire perimeter. Anchors need the proper embedment, maximum shim thickness, and edge distance (especially in concrete!).

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