Storm tight windows
Storm tight windows are specially designed windows to protect against the expected damage due to severe weather conditions like hurricanes, and heavy rain with high wind pressure. The glass used in these windows has the capacity to resist high pressure inserted by a strong wind. These are also useful in controlling water leakage and air through the joints and sides of windows.
Common types of storm tight windows
The several types of storm tight windows have their own unique features and specifications. The following are the most common types of storm tight windows.
- Hurricane Windows: Designed to bear extreme forces resulting from heavy hurricanes or wind and rain.
- Impact Resistant windows: These laminated glass windows are to resist the impacts of debris and high wind pressure. Most of the time, reinforces frames and weatherstripping are added to enhance the durability.
- Tornado windows: These are also designed with the objective to resist high wind pressures.
- High wind windows: Similar to hurricane windows, these are also designed to resist the high winds resulting from any above sources.
Is the forceable entry for firefighters possible through storm tight windows?
Yes, it is possible for emergency professionals to enter through these windows. Although these are efficiently designed to resist heavy storms they also have safety features. Rescue operations in the form of rope rescue- firefighter knots or building collapse may require safety considerations in these windows. A feature like opening from inside is the emergency feature and is helpful.
There are also some types that have mechanical devices installed outside the windows to open from outside by firefighters.
| Type | Impact Resistance in mph | Wind Load Resistance in mph | Air Leakage Resistance cfm/ft2 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Impact-Resistant Windows | 140-150 | 180 | <0.3 |
| Hurricane Windows | 170-200 | 200 | <0.3 |
| Tornado Windows | 250 | 250 | <0.3 |
| High-Wind Windows | - | 150 | <0.3 |
Step by step Procedure for storm window replacement
The generic step-by-step procedure for the replacement of your storm window is as below;
- Take the dimensions (width and Height) of your existing window frame
- Order the new storm tight window
- Removal of old windows from the structure by removing nails or screws
- Clean the surface and make necessary corrections by filling the required surface
- Install your newly purchased storm tight window with the necessary tools by ensuring personal safety with the use of a safety helmet, and gloves, etc.
- Caulk around the window with the appropriate caulking gun to seal any gaps and prevent air or water infiltration
- Check the smooth opening and closing of newly installed windows.
How much do storm tight windows cost?
Most of the contractors and states home Advisor quote the average installing cost may range from $2,500 to $13,000. The actual cost depends upon a number of factors including size, style, types of frames, level of impact resistance required, etc.
Minimum tools required to break storm tight windows.
The following list of tools or equipment a firefighter or any other emergency professional must have to do a forcible entry from these windows in case of emergency.
- Halligan Bar; as it is a multipurpose tool for firefighters, rescuers, and other emergency professionals. You may learn about parts of Halligan Bar
- Sledgehammer; is a heavy tool in the shape of a hammer.
- Glass Breaker; is a specialized tool to break glasses
What is storm guard roofing?
Storm Guard is a brand contractor with a specialized team providing products and services related to roofs. These are well-specialized in the replacement of non-repairable roofs. Storm Guard roofing contractors are trained and certified to provide high-quality workmanship and customer service and use advanced technology and techniques to ensure that roofing repairs and replacements are done quickly and effectively.
Summary
In a nutshell, the storm tight windows and their unique features make them able to withstand severe weather conditions. There are different types available such as hurricane windows, impact-resistant windows, tornado windows, and high-wind windows, each with its own specifications. Although storm-tight windows are designed to resist heavy storms, it is possible for firefighters or other emergency professionals to enter through these windows as they have safety features such as opening from the inside or mechanical devices installed outside.
Hi, I am John Smit a Captain in Fire Department City of Newyork with over years of experience in the field of Firefighting and HSE. My passion for fire safety started when I was a young boy and witnessed a neighbor’s house go up in flames along with precious lives. Since then, I had dedicated my life to ensuring the safety of buildings, properties, and individuals in case of a fire and medical emergencies.
