When a storm is approaching your home, the last thing you want is to second-guess your windows. Hurricane-rated windows, also known as impact-resistant windows, are designed to withstand brutal winds and flying debris. But how can you tell if the windows you already have are up to the task?
This guide will walk you through the signs, certifications, and visual cues that reveal whether your windows are hurricane proof. We’ll also explain what to do if they’re not.
Why It Matters: The Purpose of Hurricane Windows
Impact-resistant or hurricane-rated windows are built to handle extreme pressure changes, strong wind gusts, and debris strikes common in storms. They’re made with laminated glass and reinforced frames that stay intact even if cracked. Not only can they protect your home from damage, but they may also qualify you for insurance discounts and increase your home’s value.
If you live in Florida or along the coast, hurricane windows aren't a perk; they're a must.
How Do I Know If My Windows Are Hurricane Rated?
Start with the basics: your window labels, certifications, and visual design.
Look for a Permanent Label or Etching
Manufacturers typically etch a small mark into one of the corners of the glass. You might see:
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"TAS 201/202/203": These are Testing Application Standards used in Florida to certify hurricane impact resistance.
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"ASTM E1996" or "ASTM E1886": These refer to national standards for impact resistance.
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DP (Design Pressure) Rating: A window’s DP rating shows how much wind pressure it can withstand. For hurricane zones, you’re looking for DP50 or higher.
If your window has one of these, it's a strong indicator you have hurricane-rated glass.
Check the Manufacturer's Label
On newer windows, there’s often a label in the top or bottom corner of the sash with:
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Manufacturer name
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Model number
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Certification info
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Fabrication date
If you still have the paperwork from the window installation, you can also find this info listed there.
How to Tell If Windows Are Impact Resistant Without a Label
No label? No problem. Try these physical and visual tests.
Tap Test
Gently knock on the glass with your knuckle:
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Standard glass will sound hollow and vibrate more.
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Laminated glass (used in hurricane windows) will sound denser.
Visual Check for Lamination
Hold an object up to the window and check the reflection. Impact-resistant glass is made of two panes bonded with a clear plastic interlayer. If you see a double reflection, you may be looking at laminated glass.
Frame Inspection
Hurricane-rated windows typically use heavy-duty materials:
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Reinforced vinyl, aluminum, or composite
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Secure locking systems
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Extra-deep frames to house thicker glass
If your window frames feel unusually sturdy or thick, it’s another indicator they’re hurricane windows.
What Do Hurricane Windows Look Like?
At a glance, hurricane windows don’t look very different from regular windows. However, if you know what to look for, there are clear distinctions:
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Thicker glass profile (due to the laminate layer)
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Minimal frame flex when pressure is applied
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Internal spacer system between two sheets of glass
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Tinted or Low-E coatings that also offer added energy efficiency
Some hurricane windows also have visible reinforcement inside the frame, especially in sliding or casement styles.
How to Know If You Have Hurricane Windows: Regional Clues
Where you live plays a big role. Homes in Florida, especially in High Velocity Hurricane Zones (HVHZ) like Miami-Dade and Broward counties, are required to have hurricane-rated openings. If your home was built after 2002 in one of these areas, your windows were likely required to meet strict impact standards.
If you're unsure, pull your permit records or ask your builder.
How Do I Know If My Windows Are Hurricane Proof—or Just Hurricane Resistant?
The phrase "hurricane proof" is often misleading. No window is entirely indestructible. The correct term is "hurricane resistant." These windows are designed to resist penetration from flying debris and remain intact during high winds.
They might crack under extreme pressure, but the inner layer prevents the glass from shattering into your home. That’s what truly sets hurricane windows apart.
What If My Windows Aren’t Hurricane Rated?
If your current windows fail the checks above, it might be time to upgrade. Florida homes especially benefit from impact windows:
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Lower energy bills (thanks to laminated Low-E glass)
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Potential insurance discounts
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Enhanced security against break-ins
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Improved soundproofing
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Full compliance with Florida Building Code
Replacing your standard windows with certified impact windows is an investment in your safety, comfort, and peace of mind.
FHIA Remodeling offers free consultations, expert installations, and premium hurricane-rated windows engineered for Florida homes. Get in touch today to learn how we can help protect your home.
Ask FHIA Your Questions About Hurricane Windows!
Not sure whether your windows are hurricane rated? FHIA Remodeling can help. Our team specializes in window inspections and replacements tailored for Florida’s toughest weather.
Schedule your free consultation today and make sure your home is ready for whatever the next storm brings.
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