The ever-increasing demands for new improved materials have changed the pressure values for windows and doors significantly for the replacement of aluminum windows, doors and sliding doors. This is especially true in areas exposed to wind such as Maryland. Not only are design prints an important life-saving issue for the everyday homeowner, but they are critical to any high-rise building over 4 floors. What is the problem? As the height of the building increases, the air pressure increases dramatically.
In addition to the height, the position of the window (corner versus center of the building) can quadruple the pressure effects. For safety reasons, all sash windows and doors for these applications must meet recently updated and improved air, water and construction performance. Many homeowners’ associations (HOAs), real estate companies and even window manufacturers do not know the older codes not to mention the new ones. However, as many do when something changes, some may find these new replacement window pressure windows deadly. In reality, a hit from flying debris or winds from even a modest tropical storm can destroy your windows and jeopardize the security of your home.
Quality window:
The easiest way to explain air pressure is to take a walk through central Waldorf. Imagine walking down a street on a typical Waldorf winter day. On almost any street you will encounter some wind, but when you turn that corner, the gusts of wind can literally knock you off your feet. Tropical storms and hurricanes do not differ in their wind gusts which dramatically exaggerate the wind pressure and its effects on the design of the building.
In the same way when it comes to high-rise buildings, the wind speeds and wind pressure are even more pronounced due to the surrounding trees, buildings and higher floor heights. In the same way as the wind that passes over an aircraft wing (Bernoulli’s principle), these natural and artificial structures can generate negative air pressures that can lift or in this case suck windows and doors directly out of the wall. Can you imagine what could happen if you stood behind a window that is sucked out at 150 km / h? In some cases the winds can reach a staggering 300 km / h or higher.
Choosing the right window and door for the application: For high-rise buildings, there are single hanging windows, double hanging windows, window covers, picture windows and sliding doorswhich are designed to meet and in most cases exceed the regional and county pressure codes. It is important to note that not all windows and doors are created equal. It is of utmost importance to find a window dealer and installer who has experience in handling design printing. A reputable company can explain and help the homeowner to choose the right window and door product for their particular application.
High-rise apartments:
Consistent window manufacturers have announced two major changes in design printing on Double Hung windows. Approved window sizes with connected windows now exceed a design pressure 40, most exceed a design pressure 45, and many reach the design pressure 50. These performance improvements were made possible by modifications to the tilt lock, which now pulls the window even tighter against the frame. The end result for you homeowner, a larger energy efficient, quieter and safer window.
Impact of windows:
The construction pressure on approved window lines – including single-hung, double-hung, transom and picture window units – is also increasing. However, only about 10% of the aluminum window and door products currently manufactured have been upgraded to meet the increased design pressure values. To meet these higher design pressure values, tested windows and doors were required to meet three (3) specific criteria related to air, water and structural performance.
Air: The glass was needed to show no proof of air spillage around the climate strip or corner joints when introduced in a 25 mph air stream.
Water: The unit must withstand eight inches of rain per hour, driven by wind speeds of 55 mph.
Structural: The unit must remain structurally sound below 142 km / h wind pressure.
Find the right company:
Here your real work will begin because you will need some training. Finding a factory-trained and certified window installation company that has not only been trained specifically for design pressure requirements but who knows how to install these windows and doors is key. Many companies say they can do the job but few companies know how to do it right. Requirements for design pressure can only be calculated with a “Structural Engineering” program. You cannot just wing it. If the company you work for has nothing, do yourself a favor, show them the door and move on.