Residential Fenestration Vulnerability to Windborne Debris

This paper summarizes the methods and results of three experimental investigations regarding the vulnerability of residential windows and window protection systems to windborne debris impact. The first experimental investigation quantified the momentum threshold required to damage unprotected residential window glazing due to the impact of asphalt roof shingles and wooden dowels (vegetation). The second experimental investigation documented the performance of metal shutters due to the impact of whole concrete roof tiles and 2 x 4 lumber. The third experimental investigation addressed the frangibility of roof tile systems under impact by roof tiles, and the puncture vulnerability of metal hurricane shutters under impact by roof tile fragments. These studies confirm that the use of window protection to mitigate damage from windborne debris is effective. However, properly installed and code approved protection systems are vulnerable to failure in strong hurricane conditions.