In Florida there are lots of different codes for windows so much of Florida is in wind borne object areas, theres a lot of coast line here. There is sometimes a misconception about tempered glass and impact glass being the same.

Impact Glass is what it sounds like. It’s glass that is built with the intention to resist heavy impact. Impact-resistant glass is created by use of a safety glaze for laminated glass. This type of glass is created by bonding together two or more panes of glass with a thin clear film between the panes. The thickness of this film can range, as can the UV tint or color. This film also helps to hold the glass in place, making it resistant to impact.

Typical impact glass breakage without puncture

When impact glass breaks, the glass sticks to the plastic film.  This helps to prevent large shards of glass from breaking free, as well as keeps out wind, water or debris that could otherwise be forced through the window.

Impact Glass Window

Tempered glass is a heat treated glass. The glass is heated first, followed by the surface being cooled rapidly. This process results in leaving the center of the glass relatively hot, when compared to the center. When the center of the glass does cool, the surface and edges are compressed.

Image of a broken tempered glass window. If you look closely you can see the “dicing.”

When tempered glass breaks, it breaks into small, harmless pieces. The process of tempered glass shattering is called “dicing” this helps reduce the likelihood of serious injury, as a direct result of contact with the window.

When choosing windows be sure to speak with a professional on which type will best suit your needs.

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