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Installing Impact-Resistant Windows

Bob talks with Stephen Hugh of Clearwater Window and Door Installation about membrane flashing that has been applied between the joint of the steel frame and the steel skin that faces the exterior. The adhesive membrane is applied to seal the joint and prevent any rain from entering through gaps in the structure. Dave Olmstead of PGT Industries tells Bob about the features of the PGT WinGuard window they are installing. These windows are wind- and impact-resistant with a vinyl extruded frame that is thermally efficient and designed to prevent excessive heat gain. The double-pane window has a sacrificial exterior glass pane and a laminated interior pane that prevents penetration on impact. The interior pane has a low-e coating to reflect heat back to the source and reduce heat gain. Vinyl windows are slightly more expensive than aluminum-frame windows but they combat heat transfer, reduce noise when paired with the laminated glass, do not scratch because they are one color throughout, and are non-corrosive and well-suited to a salt-air environment. Impact-resistant glass is like the laminated glass used in car windshields. Number 10, two-inch stainless-steel screws are used to secure the window frame to the pressure -treated window buck that was factory installed by TAW (Tampa Armature Works) prior to delivery of the steel units on site. The screws are driven 1 1/4 inch deep into the lumber to prevent pullout or blow-in. The windows have been tested to resist windspeeds of up to 146 mph and unwanted entry by burglars. The lower sash has been left off due to the weight of the window. Hugh installs it easily by fitting the the pivot bar into a ready-made pivot cam and tilting the sash up into place and locking it. This feature makes for easy cleaning. More information