Strong winds test every part of your property, from ground-floor windows to rooftop mechanical units. As a property owner or manager, it pays to know how much wind a window can withstand — because they're your building's first defense against storms.
What To Know About Window Wind Resistance
Residential windows typically withstand winds of 70 to 80 mph before showing signs of stress. Commercial buildings often feature more robust windows, with many rated to handle winds exceeding 100 mph in high-rise settings. Wind pressure increases dramatically with building height, making this especially relevant for business owners with multistory properties.
The wind resistance of your windows depends on multiple factors working together. Window size plays a major role, as larger panes experience more wind pressure than smaller ones. This is particularly relevant for commercial storefronts with large display windows or modern homes with expansive glass walls. Installation quality significantly impacts performance — even the most wind-resistant window will fail if improperly installed.
When Does Wind Become a Threat?
Most windows stay intact during typical storms, but hurricane-force winds — those above 110 mph — will shatter even high-quality windows. Well before reaching that extreme, windows face two main threats: sustained pressure and flying debris.
Commercial buildings, especially taller structures, battle pressure differences. As wind whips around a building, it creates varying pressure between the interior and exterior. This pressure can stress and eventually break windows, even without any debris impact.
Homes face a different challenge. While pressure matters, wind-driven debris poses the primary threat. Tree branches, lawn furniture, and loose building materials become projectiles during severe storms. Similarly, commercial properties must contend with debris from nearby construction sites and rooftop equipment — which is why many business owners invest in impact-resistant glass for protection against both intense winds and flying objects.
Protecting Your Roof Against Wind Damage
Commercial flat roofs and residential sloped roofs face different challenges, but wind damage often begins subtly. On commercial buildings, wind gradually loosens roofing membranes and lifts metal panels. On homes, shingles begin to curl or lose granules. Once wind gets under even a small loose section, it can create a chain reaction that compromises larger areas.
A compromised roof affects your windows, too. Roof damage creates pressure changes inside your building, putting extra stress on windows. This is why storm repairs often involve both systems.
Professional Assessment and Repair
Call a roofing expert at the first sign of wind damage. Here's what to check:
For residential properties:
- Missing or damaged shingles
- Rattling windows
- Damaged weather stripping
- Water stains on ceilings
For commercial properties:
- Membrane lifting or bubbling
- Loose flashing around rooftop equipment
- Window seals pulling away from frames
- Unusual interior drafts
Future-Proofing Your Property
Investing in wind-resistant features can protect both commercial and residential properties in the long term. Modern window technology offers solutions for both sectors, from hurricane-rated glass for coastal homes to pressure-equalized window systems for high-rise offices. While the initial investment might be higher, these improvements often pay for themselves through reduced repair costs and better energy efficiency.
Your property's wind resistance is only as strong as its weakest point. Protect your property from damaging winds before the next storm hits. Contact us as Superior Roofing, and schedule your free inspection today.