What Makes Impact Windows So Strong? The Testing Process Explained

Impact windows undergo a rigorous testing process to ensure they meet the standards set by various organizations, such as the American Society for Testing and Materials (ASTM) and the Miami-Dade County Product Control Division. These tests assess the strength, durability, and impact resistance of the windows.

One of the tests performed on impact windows is the Large Missile Impact Test, where a 9-pound 2×4 wooden board is fired at the window at 34 miles per hour. The window must remain intact and in the frame for the impact to be considered successful. Another test is the Small Missile Impact Test, where a steel ball is shot at the window at 50 feet per second. The window must not break, and the glass must remain intact in the frame.

Additionally, impact windows are tested for their ability to withstand high winds. The pressure cycling test is performed by subjecting the window to pressure changes from -50 to +50 pounds per square foot. This simulates wind speeds of up to 200 miles per hour.

The durability of impact windows is also tested through the cyclic pressure test. This test subjects the window to 4,500 cycles of pressure changes, equivalent to 10 years of exposure to wind, rain, and other elements. The window must remain intact and functional after the test.