How Do I Know if My Windows Are Hurricane Rated?
Determining if your windows are hurricane rated is crucial for protecting your home and family during severe weather. The easiest way is to look for labels or certifications on the window itself, or to review documentation provided by the manufacturer or installer.
Understanding Hurricane Ratings: Protecting Your Home
Living in hurricane-prone areas demands serious consideration of your home’s ability to withstand extreme winds and impacts. Windows are often a vulnerable point, and hurricane-rated windows are specifically designed to offer enhanced protection. However, simply assuming your windows are adequate can have disastrous consequences. Learning how to verify your window’s rating is essential for peace of mind and effective hurricane preparedness.
Identifying Hurricane-Rated Windows: A Step-by-Step Guide
Examining the Window for Certification Labels
The most reliable method is to physically inspect your windows for certification labels. These labels, usually permanent and located in a corner of the glass or on the frame, indicate that the window has been tested and certified to meet specific hurricane-resistant standards. Look for the following:
- Florida Product Approval Code (FL#): This is a mandatory certification in Florida, and many other coastal states recognize it.
- Miami-Dade County Notice of Acceptance (NOA): Another rigorous Florida standard, considered one of the highest.
- American Architectural Manufacturers Association (AAMA) Certification: AAMA tests products according to various standards, including those relevant to hurricane resistance. Look for designations like DP (Design Pressure) ratings, which indicate the wind load the window can withstand.
- ASTM E1996 and ASTM E1886: These are standard tests for impact resistance and cyclical wind pressure, respectively.
The presence of any of these certifications, along with associated numbers, is a strong indicator that your windows are designed to withstand hurricane-force winds and impacts. Carefully record these numbers, as they’ll be useful for further verification.
Consulting Documentation and Records
If you can’t find labels, don’t despair! You might be able to find information in your home’s documentation. This could include:
- Original Building Plans: If your home was built after stricter hurricane codes were implemented, the plans should specify the required window ratings.
- Window Installation Receipts or Contracts: These documents should detail the specifications of the windows that were installed, including whether they are hurricane rated and the specific certification standards they meet.
- Manufacturer’s Literature: If you know the manufacturer of your windows, search their website or contact them directly for product specifications.
Contacting a Professional
If you are unable to locate any documentation or labels, or you’re unsure about the meaning of the certifications you find, consult a qualified professional. A licensed contractor, window installer, or home inspector with experience in hurricane-resistant construction can assess your windows and provide an expert opinion on their rating and suitability for your location.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
FAQ 1: What is the difference between hurricane-rated windows and standard windows?
Hurricane-rated windows are specifically designed and tested to withstand high winds, flying debris, and water intrusion during hurricanes. They typically feature reinforced frames, impact-resistant glass (usually laminated or tempered), and robust sealing systems. Standard windows lack these features and are much more likely to break or fail during a hurricane, leading to significant damage.
FAQ 2: Are all impact-resistant windows hurricane rated?
Not necessarily. While all hurricane-rated windows are impact-resistant, not all impact-resistant windows are hurricane-rated. Impact resistance simply means the window can withstand a certain level of impact. Hurricane-rated windows must meet specific, stringent standards for both impact resistance and wind pressure resistance as defined by organizations like the Florida Building Code and Miami-Dade County.
FAQ 3: What does “Design Pressure” (DP) mean?
Design Pressure (DP) is a numerical rating that indicates the wind load a window can withstand. A higher DP rating means the window is designed to withstand stronger winds. The required DP rating for your windows will depend on your location, the height of your home, and other factors.
FAQ 4: How do I find out the wind zone I live in?
Your local building department or emergency management agency can provide information about your specific wind zone. Online resources, such as FEMA maps, can also provide general guidance. Knowing your wind zone is critical for determining the required DP rating for your windows.
FAQ 5: What are the different types of impact-resistant glass used in hurricane-rated windows?
The most common types of impact-resistant glass are laminated glass and tempered glass. Laminated glass consists of two or more layers of glass bonded together with a layer of polyvinyl butyral (PVB) interlayer. Tempered glass is heat-treated to make it much stronger than regular glass, but it shatters into small, relatively harmless pieces when broken. Laminated glass is generally preferred for hurricane windows because the PVB interlayer holds the glass together even when it’s cracked.
FAQ 6: Can I retrofit my existing windows to make them hurricane rated?
While you can’t truly “retrofit” standard windows to become hurricane rated, you can take steps to improve their protection. Applying impact-resistant film or installing storm shutters can provide a degree of protection against wind and debris. However, these are not equivalent to hurricane-rated windows and may not provide the same level of protection. It’s also vital to note that even with film, the framing of the window may still be a point of failure.
FAQ 7: Are hurricane-rated windows more expensive than standard windows?
Yes, hurricane-rated windows are typically more expensive than standard windows due to the higher quality materials and specialized manufacturing processes involved. However, the long-term cost savings associated with protecting your home from hurricane damage can often outweigh the initial investment.
FAQ 8: Will insurance companies offer discounts for homes with hurricane-rated windows?
Many insurance companies offer discounts for homes that have hurricane-resistant features, including hurricane-rated windows. Contact your insurance provider to inquire about potential discounts and the documentation required to prove your windows meet the necessary standards.
FAQ 9: How long do hurricane-rated windows last?
The lifespan of hurricane-rated windows depends on factors such as the quality of the materials, the installation process, and the environmental conditions they are exposed to. Generally, well-maintained hurricane-rated windows can last for 20 years or more.
FAQ 10: What is the difference between single-hung, double-hung, and casement hurricane-rated windows?
These terms refer to the window style, not the hurricane rating itself. Single-hung windows have a fixed upper sash and a movable lower sash. Double-hung windows have both sashes that can be opened and closed. Casement windows are hinged on the side and swing outward. Any of these styles can be hurricane rated, provided they meet the required certification standards.
FAQ 11: Are there any tax benefits for installing hurricane-rated windows?
Tax benefits for installing hurricane-rated windows vary by state and locality. Check with your local government or a tax professional to see if any incentives are available in your area.
FAQ 12: What should I do if I find out my windows are NOT hurricane rated?
If your windows are not hurricane rated, consider upgrading them to hurricane-rated windows, especially if you live in a high-risk area. In the meantime, consider installing storm shutters or applying impact-resistant film to provide temporary protection. Consult with a qualified contractor to discuss your options and determine the best course of action for your home. Remember, preparedness is key to weathering any storm.