Just found out something pretty wild...apparently, some windows are designed strong enough to handle hurricane-force winds and flying debris. Like, we're talking glass that's tested by literally shooting wooden planks at high speeds into them. I mean, that sounds kinda fun as a job, but seriously impressive tech-wise. Curious if anyone here's ever dealt with these windows during an actual storm or knows more about how they're tested? Seems almost unreal they're that tough.
"Like, we're talking glass that's tested by literally shooting wooden planks at high speeds into them."
Haha, yeah, I've seen videos of those tests before—pretty wild stuff. A buddy of mine down in Florida put hurricane-rated windows in his place a few years back. He swears by them now. Said during the last big storm, a tree branch flew straight into one of his windows and bounced right off without even cracking the glass. Crazy, right?
I've installed a few myself on remodel projects, and they're definitely heavier and thicker than your standard windows. The frames are beefed up too, usually aluminum or reinforced vinyl. Installation can be a bit trickier because of the extra weight and sealing requirements, but once they're in, they're rock solid. Honestly, if you're in an area prone to hurricanes or severe storms, they're worth every penny. Beats boarding up windows every time there's a storm warning, that's for sure...
Yeah, those hurricane-rated windows are no joke. I helped my brother put some in after his old ones got wrecked in a storm. Definitely heavier than expected... and aligning them properly was a bit of a pain. But like you said:
"once they're in, they're rock solid."
He hasn't worried about storms since.
I put hurricane-rated windows in my old historic place about three years ago. Definitely agree they're heavier and trickier to align than regular windows, especially when dealing with uneven walls like mine. Took some extra shimming and patience, but worth the hassle.
"once they're in, they're rock solid."
Exactly my experience. We had a nasty storm last summer—branches flying, debris everywhere—and the windows didn't even flinch. Honestly, I sleep better knowing they're there. Only downside is they don't come cheap, but compared to replacing antique woodwork or dealing with water damage... it's money well spent.
