Hurricanes are a regular phenomenon across the southern states of the U.S. and the Gulf Coast. They form in a region of the Atlantic known as Hurricane Alley, and the rising sea temperatures over the last two decades has increased hurricane activity. Most notably, the years 2017 and 2018 saw extensive destruction from hurricanes in areas of Texas, Florida, Louisiana Puerto Rico, and the U.S. Virgin Islands.
Hurricane windows are used extensively in these areas to prevent homes from hurricane damage and are far more effective than boarding up a home.
Top features of hurricane impact glass that make it a top valued glass
Homes and buildings in hurricane-prone areas must meet safety codes and building specifications. Hurricane impact glass has many features and benefits for every type of glass usage in commercial buildings and homes, even those not in a hurricane zone. One of the most significant benefits is they are an investment worth making because they increase the value and security of any building.
Even though some people believe that window glass can be made more resistant by adding a surface membrane to it, this is not as aesthetically pleasing. This type of membrane cannot offer the same protections as glass manufactured to be hurricane resistant does.
1. Protect the interior
Hurricane impact glass can protect a home from far more than just gale-force winds and flying debris – it is resistant to winds of up to 200 mph. Normal glass breaks into shards and can fly around causing injuries, whereas this type of glass is designed to withstand impact and shatters like windshield glass. Burglars are deterred by it because it takes longer to break into a home.
Since the interior of a home is protected from violent weather conditions and burglars, homeowners usually pay up to 45% less insurance when this type of glass is installed.
2. Thermal resistant
Impact glass provides improved insulation and is far more energy-efficient than normal glass. It can filter up to 99% of the harmful waves of solar radiation and provides UV ray protection. This protects items from fading in interiors. The temperature within buildings and homes remains more stable, saving money on cooling and heating.
3. Sound resistant
Hurricane resistant glass is sound resistant and prevents noises from entering and exiting a home. It is especially popular in built-up areas with high traffic volumes.
4. Blast resistant
Hurricane impact glass is also blast resistant. In the event of an explosion or fire in the vicinity of a home or building, the glass will not break into shards with a blast or the intense heat of a fire.
5. Highly Durable and scratch-resistant
The durability of these glass materials makes it ideal for use in high traffic areas and is the preferred type of glass used on glass sliding doors. It is also the most scratch-resistant of all types of glass.
6. Curbside appeal
Homes with tempered glass windows have a gorgeous appeal from the outside. Upgrading a home with impact-resistant glass adds to its value. Commercial and residential properties gain a beautiful façade with the use of these windows and their resale value is increased.
Hurricane glass manufacturing process
Hurricane glass is made from tempered and laminated glass, the same type of glass used for car windshields. However, the layers of glass are much thicker, and two sheets of laminated glass are bonded together using a polyvinyl butyral (PVB) membrane.
Either mechanical or chemical bonding methods can be used, but high temperature and pressure are applied to ensure the complete elimination of air bubbles. This process forms an air-tight seal. This thin plastic membrane can vary in thickness, depending on the specifications required and the strength required.
Even if one of the glass layers shatters, the plastic between the glass remains intact because the layer sandwiched between the glass makes it even stronger.
Type of glass used in impact-resistant windows
Impact-resistant windows are made with two panes of laminated glass with a unique film between them. It is usually the most popular choice for impact protection.
Insulated laminated glass can also be used to protect homes against hurricanes. The double glass is filled with gas (mostly argon) which makes it more impact resistant. Impact-resistant glass is used on the one side and secure tempered glass on the other. Insulated laminated glass is more expensive, but it is also more energy-efficient.
The recommended thickness of impact glass window
The standard thickness of glass panes that can resist impact is 5/16 or 7/16 inch. However, the location where the panes will be installed and building specifications will determine which the ideal thickness should be.
Commercial buildings and homes built on coastal areas, where there is a greater risk of hurricanes or gale-force winds, should consider thicker glass. It is worth noting the thickness of the panes does not always affect the amount of impact that the glass can endure.
Where to buy the best hurricane impact glass in the U.S.A.?
Fab Glass and Mirror is one of the top producers and suppliers of glass for hurricanes and other extreme phenomena. Made in the U.S.A., the hurricane impact glass is available in a vast variety of shapes, sizes, and thicknesses. Custom made dimensions are also available.
For a structurally strong and aesthetically pleasing home, the installation of hurricane glass in buildings and homes offers substantial benefits – these benefits make it more affordable than most people think.
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