Solution Ideas
Glass
- Tempered Glass for strength from blowing tree limbs or other objects
- Laminated Glass, while not necessarily as strong as other types of glass, provides additional safety from blowing objects since it is more likely to remain in the frame when broken.
Frame
- Vinyl Windows -- Commercially rated Vinyl II or Vinyl III can withstand up to 155 mph wind. Also passes AAMA test at 40 mph wind with 8" rain per hour.
- Vinyl windows offer the ultimate in weather protection with welded corners and premium weatherstripping.
- WoodClad Windows --. Commercially rated WoodClad can withstand up to 110 mph wind. Also passes AAMA test at 40 mph wind with 8" rain per hour.
- Thermally-broken aluminum windows -- rated to withstand up to 110 mph wind. Also passes AAMA test at 40 mph wind with 8" rain per hour.
Other Considerations
- Weep covers on WoodClad will help keep wind, rain, dust and insects out of the home
- Mulling windows (not TDL's) can increase the strength of the window units. Consider breaking up large windows with mulls.
- Very large mulled units are more susceptible to effects of the wind and rain. Consider recommending a "framed in" vs mulled approach when customer is using very large mulled configurations.
- Home design -- number of windows facing the exposure.
