How to Check Whether You Have Impact Windows

If you've ever wondered how to check whether you have impact windows, you're not alone. Impact windows are a valuable investment, offering enhanced protection against storms, break-ins, and extreme weather. 

FAS Exteriors is here to help you determine if your windows are impact-resistant. Keep reading to get actionable insights from a company known for supplying high-quality windows and doors, expert installation services, and comprehensive customer support. Whether you're assessing your current home's safety or considering an upgrade, understanding the features of impact windows is essential, and we’re here to guide you every step of the way.

Learn More About Impact-Resistant Windows

Impact windows, also known as hurricane windows, are specially engineered windows designed to withstand extreme weather conditions, particularly high winds and flying debris during storms. Unlike traditional windows, impact windows are made with laminated glass. Impact-resistant glass is a combination of two panes of glass with a strong interlayer that holds the glass together even when shattered. 

This construction prevents dangerous shards from scattering and helps maintain the window’s integrity under pressure. The frames are also reinforced to provide additional strength and durability.

The Benefits of Weather-Resistant Impact Glass

The benefits of impact windows extend beyond just storm protection. They enhance home security by making it harder for intruders to break in, improve energy efficiency by reducing heat transfer, block harmful UV rays that can fade furniture and flooring, and reduce outside noise for a quieter indoor environment. These advantages make impact windows a smart investment for homeowners looking to increase the safety, comfort, and value of their properties.

In hurricane-prone areas such as Central Florida and South Florida, the importance of impact windows cannot be overstated. With frequent tropical storms and hurricanes posing significant risks, having windows that meet stringent safety standards, like those certified by Miami-Dade County or the Florida Building Code, can protect your home and loved ones from devastating damage. 

Impact windows not only help prevent costly repairs but also provide hurricane protection and peace of mind during severe weather events, making them an essential feature for any home in regions prone to severe weather conditions. 

Understanding Hurricane Rating Standards for Impact Windows

Impact windows must meet strict hurricane rating standards to ensure they provide reliable protection during severe storms and even the most high-velocity hurricanes. These standards are established by building codes and testing organizations, particularly in hurricane-prone regions like Florida. 

One of the most recognized certifications comes from Miami-Dade County and the Florida Building Code, which requires windows to withstand high wind pressures and impacts from windborne debris.

To earn these ratings, impact windows undergo rigorous testing that simulates hurricane conditions. This includes subjecting the glass and frame to powerful impacts from flying debris, such as wood or metal projectiles, at high speeds, as well as exposure to sustained high winds. Windows that pass these tests demonstrate the ability to resist shattering and maintain their structural integrity, helping to protect your home from wind damage and water intrusion.

Certification labels on the windows will often indicate compliance with these standards, including references to codes like TAS 201, TAS 202, and TAS 203, which cover impact resistance, structural performance, and cyclic pressure testing. Understanding these ratings helps homeowners ensure their windows are not only impact-resistant but also compliant with local regulations, providing the highest level of safety during hurricane events.

How to Identify Impact Windows

Knowing how to identify impact windows is essential for homeowners who want to ensure their windows provide the protection and benefits expected from impact-resistant glass. One of the simplest methods is a visual inspection. 

Unlike regular windows, impact windows are made with multiple layers of glass and a strong interlayer, which creates a unique optical effect. When you hold an object up to the glass and look closely, you should be able to see multiple reflections, often two or more reflections, instead of just a single reflection you’d see in ordinary glass. This happens because of the laminated construction. It’s a reliable sign that the window is impact-resistant.

Another key way to identify impact windows is by checking the glass corners for certification labels and marks. Manufacturers typically etch or print a permanent label on one corner of the glass that includes important details, such as compliance with safety standards like those required in hurricane-prone areas. 

These marks often show the manufacturing date, brand name, and codes indicating the window has passed rigorous impact testing. If you don’t see these labels, it’s still worth performing the reflection test, as some older or unmarked impact windows may lack visible certification but still offer protection.

By combining these visual cues, looking for multiple reflections, inspecting the glass corners for labels, and noting the manufacturing date, you can confidently determine whether your windows are impact-resistant or regular windows. This knowledge helps ensure your home is equipped with windows designed to withstand severe weather and provide enhanced security.

Maintenance and Care for Impact Windows

Proper maintenance and care are essential to keep your impact windows functioning effectively and to extend their lifespan. Regular inspection is the first step in ensuring your windows remain in top condition. It’s recommended to check your impact windows at least twice a year, especially before and after hurricane season.

During these inspections, look for any signs of damage such as cracks, chips, or gaps in the seals around the window frames. Also, examine the hardware (e.g., locks, hinges, and handles) to make sure they operate smoothly and securely. Early detection of issues can prevent more problems down the line and maintain the window’s protective qualities.

To extend the lifespan of your impact windows, routine cleaning is important, but it should be done carefully. Use mild, nonabrasive cleaners and soft cloths or sponges to avoid scratching the glass or damaging the frame. Avoid harsh chemicals that can degrade the seals or coatings on the glass. 

Lubricating moving parts like hinges and locks with a silicone-based lubricant can also help keep the windows operating smoothly. Additionally, keeping the drainage holes in the frames clear of debris will prevent water buildup and potential damage.

Another valuable tip is to ensure that your impact windows are installed correctly and that any repairs are handled by professionals familiar with impact-resistant products. Proper installation and timely maintenance not only preserve the windows' durability but also maximize your return on investment by maintaining their energy efficiency, security, and storm protection capabilities. 

With consistent care, impact windows can last 20 years or more, providing lasting safety and peace of mind for your home.

Trust FAS Exteriors to Install and Maintain Your Windows

When it comes to installing impact-resistant windows, choosing the right company is crucial to ensure your home’s safety, energy efficiency, and long-term durability. FAS Exteriors stands out as a trusted leader in the industry, offering expert services that make installing impact windows a seamless and reliable experience. 

With years of experience serving Florida homeowners, we understand the challenges posed by our region's severe weather, and we deliver solutions designed to protect your property while enhancing comfort and value.

At FAS Exteriors, your safety and satisfaction are our top priority. Our team begins every project with a thorough assessment of your home’s existing windows and structure to ensure a perfect fit and optimal performance. 

Whether you're upgrading to high-quality glass windows from top manufacturers like Simonton and PGT or replacing damaged units, our professionals guide you through every step, helping you select the best materials and top products that combine style, energy efficiency, and durability. This personalized approach ensures that your new impact windows not only meet Florida’s stringent building codes but also suit your aesthetic preferences and budget.

The installation process itself is handled with precision and care. FAS Exteriors' skilled installers arrive promptly and work efficiently while respecting your home and minimizing disruption. They meticulously remove old windows and install your new impact-resistant windows with proper sealing and alignment, guaranteeing lasting quality and performance. 

This attention to detail is essential because even the best glass windows can underperform if not installed correctly. With FAS Exteriors, you can trust that your windows will withstand high winds, flying debris, and water intrusion during hurricanes, providing peace of mind when severe weather strikes.

Beyond installation, FAS Exteriors offers comprehensive maintenance support to keep your impact windows in excellent condition over time. Regular inspections and upkeep help extend the lifespan of your windows, maintain their energy efficiency, and preserve their protective qualities. 

Our commitment to customer service means that you have expert help available whenever you need it, ensuring your investment continues to safeguard your home for years to come.

When installing impact windows, you can trust FAS Exteriors for unmatched expertise, quality products, and dedicated service. Our focus on safety, precision installation, and ongoing maintenance makes us the ideal partner to protect your home against Florida's challenging climate. Contact our team of professionals today to experience the difference that professional impact window installation and care can make.