The Eastern Pacific and Atlantic hurricane seasons run from approximately the middle of May to the end of November every year. During this time, hundreds of thousands of homes are vulnerable to the effects of high winds and blowing debris. In this interview, Weathershield reviews the safety benefits of impact resistant glass and offers practical tips to keep your home safe.
A Gathering Of Experts: Thank you for joining us today.
Weathershield Reviews Team: We are glad to be here.
A Gathering Of Experts: Let’s get started. First, what are impact resistant windows?
Weathershield Reviews Team: Basically what the name implies – these are windows that are built with impact-resistant glass. In addition, a heavy duty frame keeps the window in place better than a standard frame.
A Gathering Of Experts: Are these storm shutters?
Weathershield Reviews Team: No, impact resistant glass negates the need for storm shutters.
A Gathering Of Experts: So, my home can actually look good while being protected?
Weathershield Reviews Team: Absolutely…and, unlike storm shutters, impact-resistant glass windows are built into the building structure. This means they run less of a risk of being compromised by severe winds.
A Gathering Of Experts: How do impact resistant windows work?
Weathershield Reviews Team: They are made with a special laminated glass. It is similar to the glass on a car windshield.
A Gathering Of Experts: How is it different from regular glass?
Weathershield Reviews Team: Traditional glass panes are made with one solid sheet of glass. Impact-resistant glass is actually two layers of regular glass that has a strong film pressed between them.
A Gathering Of Experts: What does that film do?
Weathershield Reviews Team: It prevents objects from penetrating through the window into the home. It also helps to hold any broken glass in place.
A Gathering Of Experts: What states require these types of windows?
Weathershield Reviews Team: There are 15 states that require impact-resistant glass: Virginia, Texas, South Carolina, Rhode Island, Pennsylvania, North Carolina, New York, Mississippi, Massachusetts, Maryland, Georgia, Florida, Delaware, Connecticut and Alabama.
A Gathering Of Experts: So all homes in these states have to have impact-resistant glass windows installed?
Weathershield Reviews Team: Only certain areas in these states are required to have it for new construction projects. It is up to the local code officials if they enforce these codes.
A Gathering Of Experts: Does Weathershield manufacture impact resistant windows?
Weathershield Reviews Team: Yes, the LifeGuard Series. These hurricane impact windows offer an outstanding level of protection in high wind conditions.
A Gathering Of Experts: Do impact resistant windows look exactly like traditional windows?
Weathershield Reviews Team: Yes – LifeGuard windows look very similar to traditional windows.
A Gathering Of Experts: How do you know which materials are best for impact-resistant windows?
Weathershield Reviews Team: We have dedicated the last 50 years to building quality window and door products. Weathershield reviews materials as well as building code requirements constantly to make sure our products have the most technologically advanced safety features available.
A Gathering Of Experts: Is laminated glass the same as tempered glass?
Weathershield Reviews Team: No, tempered glass is glass that has been heated to an extreme temperature then cooled rapidly. It is not impact-resistant but does not break into sharp shards like regular glass.
A Gathering Of Experts: To what standards are Weathershield impact-resistant windows built?
Weathershield Reviews Team: We certify our hurricane windows ASTM 186/1986 standards.
A Gathering Of Experts: Does Weathershield make an impact resistant door?
Weathershield Reviews Team: Yes, within our LifeGuard Series we offer weather-resistant French hinged and French sliding patio doors.
A Gathering Of Experts: Great information to have. Thank you for joining us today.
Weathershield Reviews Team: We appreciate the opportunity and look forward to speaking with you again.
The experts at Weathershield have been manufacturing quality home products since 1955. Based out of Medford, Wisconsin, Weathershield offers a variety of windows and patio doors for new construction and home remodeling. For additional information please visit them on the web at weathershield.com.
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