Is it True Florida’s Windows Get Shot With a Cannon? (Video)

“Hi, my name is Greg Batista here to answer another question from the internet.

CuriousCondo asks: Is it true they shoot 2x4s at windows to test them?

Yes — and it’s the law in Florida’s hurricane zones. Impact-rated windows and doors must pass missile testing, where a 9-pound 2×4 is shot at 50 feet per second to simulate hurricane debris. Miami-Dade pioneered this test after Andrew, and now it’s part of the Florida Building Code. If the window cracks but stays intact, it passes. That’s why you’ll see labels reading “Miami-Dade NOA” or “Florida Product Approval” on approved products. This test is one reason hurricane damage is reduced when impact-rated systems are installed.

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Authoritative references: Miami-Dade County Product Control Division; ASTM E1996 and E1886 missile impact test standards.

The author, Greg Batista, PE, CGC, SI is owner of G. Batista Engineering & Construction and is a nationally-recognized engineer and contractor with more than 35 years of experience and offices in Fort Lauderdale, Florida.