Wind & Impact Resistant Glazing Materials

Overview

Wind & Impact Resistant Glazing Materials

Build your storm shelter to protect against the force of tornadoes and hurricanes with Insulgard’s cutting-edge, impact-resistant glazing systems.

As a part of our STORMDEFEND tested assemblies, Insulgard offers innovative wind and impact-resistant glazing materials that can withstand the wind pressures and debris impacts associated with an EF5 tornado.

Browse Wind & Impact Glazing Materials

Wind & Impact Protection

Benefits of Implementing STORMDEFEND Impact-Resistant Glazing Systems 

For builders or contractors, incorporating STORMDEFEND impact-resistant glazing systems into new construction projects offers numerous advantages, particularly for facilities required to meet ICC 500 standards. 

  • Enhanced Reputation: Installing impact-resistant glazing systems demonstrates a commitment to quality craftsmanship and proactive risk management, essential for projects in regions prone to severe storms. This can attract clients who need safe, secure, and durable building solutions.
  • Competitive Advantage: Offering STORMDEFEND impact-resistant glazing systems provides a competitive edge, especially in regions where local codes mandate storm shelters or safe rooms in facilities like K-12 schools and critical emergency operations centers.  
  • Client Satisfaction: By installing impact-resistant glazing materials, you ensure clients are compliant with building code standards and best practices to protect against extreme weather.
  • Reduced Liability: STORMDEFEND systems help mitigate risks associated with property damage, personal injury, and insurance claims, thereby reducing the potential for legal disputes and financial liabilities. 
  • Streamlined Construction Process: Designed for ease of installation, Insulgard systems allow you to streamline the construction process, minimize delays, and efficiently meet project deadlines. Additionally, Insulgard offers installation services to further support your project needs.  

Ready to differentiate your business with advanced glazing products? Request a quote today!

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Certified Performance Testing

Testing & Certification Standards 

Insulgard’s TG30 and TG30-IG glazing makeups, which are seamlessly integrated into the TTH350 door system and TTH600 window system, have been tested and certified by UL to meet ICC500-20, ICC500-23, and FEMA361-21 requirements for use in tornado and hurricane-safe rooms. As part of the testing, the glass must:

  • Withstand 360psi
  • Resist debris impacts from a wood 2×4 at 100mph
  • Pass rigorous cyclic pressure testing

The glass must provide complete protection, allowing no penetration of the projectile and no glass spall to the safe side.

TOG30 and TG30-IG have also achieved UL752 level 3 bullet resistance certification. TG30 and TG30-IG have only been tested and certified as part of the STORMDEFEND TTH350 and TTH600 ST systems and may not meet wind and impact ratings as a part of any other systems.

Learn More About Testing Standards

Impact-Resistant Glass Technology

Factors Influencing Vulnerability to Weather Hazards 

Impact-resistant windows are crafted with layers of tempered or laminated glass. Advanced bonding and glazing techniques create a robust barrier that can withstand high winds, flying debris, and water ingress.  For occupants in zones prone to hurricanes, tornadoes, and extreme weather conditions, the strength and resilience of layered construction offers enhanced safety and peace of mind. 

  • High wind speeds during hurricanes, tornadoes, and strong storms exert immense pressure on buildings, particularly on windows and glass surfaces, making them vulnerable to shattering and structural failure.  
  • A traditional window may have a design pressure rating of 50 pounds per square foot, which translates to roughly 140 mph, before experiencing structural failure.  
  • Insulgard’s impact-resistant glazing meets FEMA and ICC certification standards to withstand hurricane and tornado wind speeds up to 250 mph
  • During storms or other natural disasters, buildings are often exposed to projectile debris propelled by high winds. These flying objects pose a significant threat to windows and glass facades, increasing the risk of structural damage and injury to occupants.  
  • A traditional window or door may be rated to 40 to 100 pounds psf in a hurricane zone, which offers modest protection, but may not hold up against hurled objects. 
  • Insulgard’s impact-resistant glazing is engineered to FEMA and ICC standards to withstand 188 to 300 psf, providing security against propelled debris and even bullets. 
  • During heavy rains, storm surges, or floods, water can make its way through doors and windows, compromising the structural integrity of your interior spaces.  
  • Traditional glass windows are particularly susceptible to leakage and water infiltration during extreme weather events, leading to costly repairs and potential hazards.  
  • Insulgard’s impact-resistant glazing offers protection against physical impacts and helps prevent water ingress through a robust construction with tight, certified seals. 

Who We Serve

Applications & Use Cases

STORMDEFEND windows, doors, and glazing materials are designed for new-construction tornado and hurricane safe rooms that are required to meet ICC 500 certification standards.  Cities and states in 250mph wind zones that have adopted the International Building Code® from 2015 or later require the following to meet ICC500 requirements and to withstand an EF5 tornado:

  • K-12 schools
  • Critical emergency operations centers, fire/rescue/police stations, and medical facilities
  • Civic buildings in locations that have adopted the International Building Code® from 2015 or later

Insulgard’s wind and impact resistant glazing, doors, and windows are engineered for these applications. 

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Frequently ASKED QUESTIONS

WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW ABOUT Wind & Impact RESISTANT Glazing

Impact-resistant glazing is highly effective against natural disasters. It’s engineered to withstand high (250 mph) winds, flying debris, and other forces typical of hurricanes and tornadoes. While it’s not specifically designed for earthquakes, glazed panes can still provide some level of protection against shattered glass. 

Our impact-resistant glazing is designed exclusively for new construction projects, ensuring optimal performance and compliance with the highest safety standards. By integrating these advanced systems from the early design stages of your building project, we provide unparalleled protection and durability for your new facilities.  

Yes, impact-resistant glazing does cost more upfront than traditional glass solutions. However, the life safety benefits it provides in the tornado and hurricane shelters it’s installed in are relied upon in the case of a storm event.  

Yes, there are building codes, industry standards, and product certifications to ensure proper installation and performance of impact-resistant glazing materials. These regulations vary by location. The experts at Insulgard can advise you as to which state, federal, and local regulations apply to your shelter construction project.  

Impact-resistant glazing systems are designed with multiple layers, including laminated glass, tempered glass, or polymer interlayers. These layers absorb and distribute impact energy, preventing glass from shattering. Additionally, reinforced framing systems and proper installation techniques further enhance the glazing’s ability to withstand high winds and flying debris during storms. 

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Need Help Planning Your Project?

From navigating ICC 500 requirements to selecting tested impact-resistant glazing for your project, our team is here to help you find the right solution.

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Testimonials

Why industry professionals choose Insulgard

Brad Cleaveland

It has been great working with your team and you all have been very helpful and each project you have sent us has installed with no problems. What is great is that our install crews like how your system goes together, which keeps these guys happy. I look forward to doing more with your team.

Brad Cleaveland

Estimator at Midstate Glass of Citrus Co.
Inverness, FL

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