How do you choose the best hurricane impact windows for your house when there are so many on the market? Hurricane impact window ratings are very helpful when researching which impact windows to choose for your home.
In areas like ours, where hurricanes and other severe storms are common, hurricane impact windows are an essential component of home safety. These windows are made specifically to withstand strong winds and flying objects, shielding your house from possible danger and damage. In this article, we will take a closer look at hurricane impact windows ratings and what they represent.
What are Hurricane Impact Window Ratings?
Hurricane impact window ratings are a system used to evaluate the performance of hurricane impact windows to provide consumers with information about the suitability of the windows for use in specific regions. The ratings are based on the results of various tests that simulate the conditions that occur during a hurricane, including high wind speeds, flying debris, and water intrusion.
There are several different hurricane impact ratings systems used, but some of the most common include:
Miami-Dade County Approval: The Miami-Dade County Approval is a well-known, widely used rating system across the United States. The Miami-Dade County Approval rating is determined by a variety of tests, including air infiltration, water penetration resistance, and HVHZ impact tests.
Texas Department of Insurance (TDI): The HVHZ impact testing, water penetration resistance tests, and air infiltration tests serve as the basis for the TDI rating system, which is used in Texas.
Florida Building Code (FBC): The Florida Building Code rating system is used in Florida and is based on the results of HVHZ impact tests, water penetration resistance tests, air infiltration tests, and structural integrity tests.
AAMA Impact Resistance Classification: The AAMA Impact Resistance Classification is a system that rates the ability of windows and doors to withstand the impact of wind borne debris during a severe weather event such as a hurricane. The classification system is based on the product’s ability to withstand impacts from a 2×4 piece of lumber, which is representative of the size and weight of wind borne debris.
ASTM International: ASTM International is an organization that develops and publishes international standards for various products, including windows. The ASTM International rating system is based on the results of HVHZ impact tests, water penetration resistance tests, air infiltration tests, and structural integrity tests.
Hurricane impact window ratings are used to measure the performance and strength of impact-resistant windows. These ratings are based on various tests conducted by independent organizations such as the American Architectural Manufacturers Association (AAMA) and the Miami-Dade County Department of Regulatory and Economic Resources.
The most common ratings used for hurricane impact windows are the Miami-Dade County Approval and the AAMA Impact Resistance Classification.
Miami-Dade County Approval for Impact Windows
Miami-Dade County is a region in Florida that is highly vulnerable to hurricanes and other severe weather events. As a result, the area has established rigorous building codes for hurricane protection products, including impact windows. Miami-Dade County Approval is a certification that indicates that a product has been tested and approved for use in the region.
The Miami-Dade County Approval impact windows certification requires products to undergo a series of tests that evaluate their ability to withstand hurricane-force winds and wind borne debris. The testing protocol includes both static and cyclic pressure tests, as well as impact tests using a nine-pound, two-by-four piece of lumber traveling at 34 miles per hour.
If a window passes both of these tests, it is considered to be Miami-Dade County Approved and can be used in the high-velocity hurricane zone of Miami-Dade County.
AAMA Impact Resistance Classification
The American Architectural Manufacturers Association (AAMA) provides a standard for rating the impact resistance of hurricane windows. This standard is known as the AAMA Impact Resistance Classification, which ranges from CPA to CW. CPA and CW are rating systems used by the American Architectural Manufacturers Association to evaluate the air and water infiltration resistance of windows and doors.
CPA (limited impact resistance) stands for “Commercial Performance Class A” and is a rating for the air infiltration resistance of a window or door. The CPA rating indicates the product’s ability to resist the infiltration of outside air into a building. Products with higher CPA ratings provide better air infiltration resistance, which can help to reduce energy costs and improve indoor air quality.
CW (high impact resistance) stands for “Commercial Window” and is a rating for the water infiltration resistance of a window or door. The CW rating indicates the product’s ability to resist water penetration into a building during heavy rain or other severe weather conditions. Products with higher CW ratings provide better water infiltration resistance, which can help to prevent water damage and protect building occupants.
Both the CPA and CW ratings are important factors to consider when selecting windows and doors, especially in regions that experience heavy rain or other severe weather conditions. These ratings are determined through testing in a laboratory setting, and products that meet or exceed the minimum requirements are given the appropriate rating.
In addition to the CPA and CW ratings, the AAMA (American Architectural Manufacturers Association) Impact Resistance Classification includes five levels of performance for evaluating the impact resistance of windows and doors. These levels indicate the ability of the product to withstand the impact of wind-borne debris during a severe weather event like a hurricane.
Level A: This is the highest level of impact resistance. Windows with this rating can withstand impacts from a 2×4 piece of lumber traveling at 50 feet per second.
Level B: Windows with this rating can withstand impacts from a 2×4 piece of lumber traveling at 30 feet per second.
Level C: Windows with this rating can withstand impacts from a 2×4 piece of lumber traveling at 25 feet per second.
Level D: Windows with this rating can withstand impacts from a 2×4 piece of lumber traveling at 20 feet per second.
Level E: This is the lowest level of impact resistance. Windows with this rating can withstand impacts from a 2×4 piece of lumber traveling at 16 feet per second.
Impact Windows Rating Tests Explained:
Large Missile Impact Testing for Windows
Missile impact tests are a critical component of the evaluation process used to determine the impact resistance of hurricane impact windows. These tests are designed to measure the ability of the windows to withstand high-speed projectiles, such as flying debris, during a severe storm.
Through a missile impact test, a specific size and weight of projectile, such as a 9-pound 2×4 wood piece, is fired at the window at a specified speed, typically 50 feet per second. The objective of the test is to determine if the window can withstand the impact without breaking or allowing the projectile to penetrate the interior of the home.
The results of the missile impact test are used to evaluate the impact resistance of the windows and to assign a rating or classification. The requirements for missile impact testing vary depending on the region and the building code requirements. Choosing hurricane impact windows that have passed missile impact testing means that you can be confident that your home is protected from the potential damage and harm caused by flying debris during a severe storm.
High-Velocity Hurricane Zone Impact Testing for Windows
High-velocity hurricane zone (HVHZ) impact tests are a crucial aspect of the evaluation process used to determine the suitability of hurricane impact windows for use in regions prone to severe storms and high wind speeds. The HVHZ impact test is designed to evaluate the ability of windows to withstand the high winds and flying debris that are typically associated with hurricanes.
During an HVHZ impact test, the window is subjected to high wind speeds and air pressure, simulating the conditions that occur during a hurricane. The test measures the ability of the window to remain intact and resist penetration from flying debris. The results of the HVHZ impact test are used to assign a rating or classification to the window, which indicates its suitability for use in a high-velocity hurricane zone.
Air Infiltration Testing for Impact Windows
The air infiltration test is a type of evaluation conducted on hurricane impact windows to measure the ability of the windows to prevent air from entering the interior of the home. The test is designed to evaluate the seal integrity of the window and its ability to resist air infiltration, which can result in discomfort and higher energy bills.
Performing the air infiltration test includes a fan that is used to apply a specified amount of pressure to the window. The objective of the test is to determine if the window allows air to leak through, and if so, to what extent. The results of the air infiltration test are used to assign a rating to the window, which indicates its ability to resist air infiltration.
Structural Integrity Test for Impact Windows
The structural integrity test is a type of evaluation performed on hurricane impact windows to measure the strength and stability of the window. The test is designed to evaluate the ability of the window to resist wind pressure and wind-borne debris during a severe storm.
During the structural integrity test, the window is subjected to a series of tests that simulate the wind loads and pressure that can occur during a hurricane. The objective of the test is to determine if the window can withstand the forces without breaking or collapsing. The results of the structural integrity test are used to assign a rating or classification to the window, which indicates its ability to resist wind pressure and wind-borne debris.
Water Penetration Resistance Testing for Impact Windows
The water penetration resistance test is a type of evaluation performed on hurricane impact windows to measure the ability of the window to resist water intrusion during a severe storm. The test is designed to evaluate the seal integrity of the window and its ability to prevent water from entering the interior of the home.
While conducting the water penetration resistance test, the window is subjected to a simulated rainstorm, with water being sprayed at the window at a specified angle and pressure. The objective of the test is to determine if the window allows water to penetrate through the seal and into the interior of the home. The results of the water penetration resistance test are used to assign a rating or classification to the window, which indicates its ability to resist water intrusion.
Choosing the Right Hurricane Impact Windows for Your Home :
When choosing hurricane impact windows for your home, it is important to consider both the Miami-Dade County Approval and the AAMA Impact Resistance Classification. While the Miami-Dade County Approval is specific to Miami-Dade County, it is still considered to be one of the most stringent requirements for impact-resistant windows.
In addition to the impact test ratings, it is also important to consider the type of glazing system used in the windows, as well as the thickness and strength of the window frame. You should also consider the overall quality and reputation of the manufacturer.
Hurricane impact windows ratings are a crucial aspect to consider when choosing impact-resistant windows for your home. By understanding the different ratings and evaluating the strength and performance of the windows, you can ensure that your home is protected from the potential damage and harm caused by severe storms and hurricanes. These impressive windows are specifically designed to withstand high winds and flying debris, making them an essential aspect of home safety.
By calling East Coast Windows about hurricane windows, you are taking a proactive step in ensuring the safety and protection of your home and loved ones. You will rest easy knowing that your home is equipped with windows that have been tested and rated to withstand severe weather conditions. This not only provides peace of mind, but also adds value to your home.
Choosing hurricane impact windows also adds to the visual appeal of your home. With a wide range of styles, colors, and finishes to choose from, you will find the perfect windows to complement the look of your home. Make an investment in the safety and security of your home and family by choosing East Coast Windows. With superior performance, energy efficiency, and visual appeal, hurricane impact windows are a smart choice for any homeowner.
So, why wait?
Request a free quote today or give us a call at (954) 946-3697 to start protecting your home from the potential damage and harm caused by severe weather events.
