Hurricane-Rated Glass
Glass systems tested and certified to withstand wind-borne debris impacts and extreme wind pressures as required by Florida Building Code and ASTM E1996 standards.
Technical Details
Hurricane-rated glazing must pass large missile impact tests (a 9-pound 2x4 lumber fired at 50 fps) and small missile tests (10 steel balls at 130 fps), followed by cyclic pressure loading simulating hurricane conditions. Products must carry a Florida Product Approval for use in wind-borne debris regions. These systems typically use laminated glass with SGP interlayers in heavy-duty frames.
Frequently Asked Questions
What tests must hurricane-rated glass pass?
Hurricane-rated glass must pass ASTM E1996 large missile impact (9-lb 2x4 at 50 fps), small missile impact, and cyclic pressure testing. Florida TAS 201, 202, and 203 testing protocols are the most stringent in the nation.
Is hurricane-rated glass required in all coastal areas?
Not universally, but the Florida Building Code requires impact-resistant glazing or approved shutters in wind-borne debris regions throughout coastal Florida. Other coastal states have varying requirements based on wind speed maps in ASCE 7.
Related Terms
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