The Evolution of Safe and Stylish Homes with PGT
On the Front Lines of Recovery
One of the most powerful storms to ever hit the United States, Hurricane Ian destroyed more than 5,000 homes, damaged over 30,000 others in Florida, and caused over $112 billion in damage, making it the costliest hurricane in Florida's history. After the winds and storm surges subsided, PGT was invited to participate in the National Science Foundation’s Structural Extreme Events Reconnaissance Network (StEER) to assess damages and plan for the future.
In doing so, PGT Engineers discovered that newer homes built to Miami-Dade County’s strict building codes were far more likely to have withstood the destructive forces of the hurricane. What’s more, homes outfitted with PGT WinGuard Impact Resistant products saw little to no damage outside of superficial exterior issues.
“I have PGT impact windows and sliders throughout my home, and during Hurricane Ian, they held up perfectly,” writes Fort Myers Beach resident Joseph C. “No shaking, no rattling, and you could barely hear the storm. We were actually watching the storm from our living room since we didn’t have hurricane shutters blocking the view.”
With over seven million PGT custom windows and doors installed and zero reported impact failures—a record unmatched in the industry—it’s clear that PGT knows a thing or two about protecting Floridians from harm.
PGT’s Impact Windows and Doors: Driven by Science and Innovation
One of the most powerful storms to ever hit the United States, Hurricane Ian destroyed more than 5,000 homes, damaged over 30,000 others in Florida, and caused over $112 billion in damage, making it the costliest hurricane in Florida's history. After the winds and storm surges subsided, PGT was invited to participate in the National Science Foundation’s Structural Extreme Events Reconnaissance Network (StEER) to assess damages and plan for the future.
In doing so, PGT Engineers discovered that newer homes built to Miami-Dade County’s strict building codes were far more likely to have withstood the destructive forces of the hurricane. What’s more, homes outfitted with PGT WinGuard Impact Resistant products saw little to no damage outside of superficial exterior issues.
“I have PGT impact windows and sliders throughout my home, and during Hurricane Ian, they held up perfectly,” writes Fort Myers Beach resident Joseph C. “No shaking, no rattling, and you could barely hear the storm. We were actually watching the storm from our living room since we didn’t have hurricane shutters blocking the view.
With over seven million PGT custom windows and doors installed and zero reported impact failures—a record unmatched in the industry—it’s clear that PGT knows a thing or two about protecting Floridians from harm.
An Invisible Shield: A Closer Look at PGT’s Impact Glass
PGT impact-resistant windows and doors feature laminated, insulated glass, constructed through a special silicone glazing process that prevents the glass from detaching from its frame during extreme conditions. This glass is comprised of three layers: two panes bonded with a robust, clear interlayer for unmatched impact resistance, plus an additional pane for enhanced insulation.
Engineered to withstand debris penetration at velocities up to 50 feet per second, the products offer superior protection against the most severe weather elements. And although wind borne debris may crack the exterior glass when struck, the interlayer keeps the glass unit intact, preventing damage to your home’s interior without any other advance preparation.
Effortless Hurricane Protection, 24/7
In the face of an approaching hurricane, time is of the essence. Traditional storm preparations, involving the cumbersome installation of plywood and shutters, can consume anywhere from 30 minutes to four grueling hours of precious time. PGT Custom Windows and Doors revolutionizes this process, offering homeowners the ultimate convenience: zero minutes of prep time.
Their impact windows and doors stand ready at a moment's notice, eliminating the frantic rush to secure your home as a storm approaches. With PGT, homeowners enjoy the peace of mind that comes with knowing that their family is safe from potential projectiles, and that their sanctuary is fortified against the elements.
Beyond Hurricane Protection
Keeping your home safe and comfortable is about more than extreme weather. PGT’s WinGuard windows and doors offer a suite of benefits that allow homeowners to live where they want, how they want.
Safety, Security, and Comfort: The PGT Custom Windows and Doors Advantage
As communities like Fort Myers Beach continue their journey of rebuilding and fortification, the lessons of Hurricane Ian resonate deeply within the community. The demand for solutions that withstand the test of nature and enhance the living experience has led many homeowners to PGT Custom Windows and Doors. Here, the convergence of durability, functionality, and aesthetic appeal forms the cornerstone of a home that is not only safe from storms, but also a sanctuary of comfort and style. With PGT's superior windows and doors, homeowners are empowered to face the unpredictable with confidence, enjoying the safety and privacy of their environment and lifestyle.
For more information about protecting your home, or to find an authorized dealer near you, visit pgtwindows.com.
Theft Deterrence
The robust construction of PGT's impact-resistant products acts as a formidable barrier against burglaries and break-ins. Homeowners concerned about the safety of their loved ones and valuables enjoy an added layer of security that extends beyond the hurricane season.
Sound Dampening
From lawn equipment and barking dogs to airplanes and freeway traffic, noisy disturbances can detract from your indoor comfort. PGT's impact windows and doors can diminish outdoor noise by up to 65% compared to traditional windows, greatly enhancing your home's tranquility.
Energy Efficiency
PGT's impact products provide insulation and protection from unwanted heat loss and heat gain. Reducing the transfer of heat helps maintain consistent indoor temperatures and contributes to a more energy-efficient home. The result is a reduction in energy bills and a contribution to environmental conservation through decreased energy consumption.
UV Protection
Exposure to UV rays can cause fading and damage to furniture, artworks, and fabrics. PGT's impact windows offer up to 99% UV protection, effectively blocking the harmful rays that can degrade your home's interior.
Style Without Compromise
PGT’s impact windows and doors are designed to complement any architectural design, from traditional to contemporary. With a range of customizable options, homeowners can preserve historical architectural details or create a modern façade, ensuring that the functional benefits of impact resistance are seamlessly integrated into the visual appeal of your home.
It’s been more than a year since Hurricane Ian struck Fort Myers Beach, Florida, leaving a trail of destruction in its wake. As resilient communities across the state continue their recovery efforts, this period of rebuilding serves as a crucial reminder of the importance of preparing for future storms. At the forefront of developing protective measures is PGT Custom Windows and Doors, offering cutting-edge protection against wind, water, and airborne debris.
Established in 1980, PGT Custom Windows and Doors produces the country's most sought-after impact-resistant windows and doors. They are dedicated to protecting homes and families from severe weather, demonstrating an unparalleled commitment to durability and safety that elevates industry benchmarks.
Where to Buy
In 1992, PGT raised the bar for the industry, introducing impact-resistant glass windows that adhered to Miami-Dade County’s notoriously strict building codes. The stricter codes were adopted with input from PGT engineers in the aftermath of Hurricane Andrew’s devastating landfall.
Dean Ruark, Vice President of Engineering for PGT Custom Windows and Doors, emphasizes this boots-on-the-ground approach to research and development.
“Our team of professional engineers gets out after every single US landfalling hurricane,” he says. “We inspect the damage firsthand to understand how our products are performing, how building codes are performing and where to invest our energy and efforts to create stronger and safer products.”
Scroll down
Read more
Click the circles below to explore.
Peek Inside the Power of WinGuard Impact-Resistant Solutions
Explore the unmatched protection and enhanced home living offered by WinGuard Impact-Resistant Windows and Doors. Engineered for ultimate defense, WinGuard aluminum and vinyl products shield your family from hurricane-force winds while amplifying your home's comfort, security, and aesthetic appeal. With advanced impact glass, you gain additional safeguards against intruders and noise pollution, alongside potential savings over time. Start by choosing WinGuard® in either aluminum or vinyl – both benefit from PGT impact glass. Laminated Impact glass utilizes Sandwich® construction formed of two panes of single pane glass united by a layer of polyvinyl butyral (PVB) or SG in the middle glazed with a special silicone glazing process that helps keep laminated insulating glass windows from breaking away from the frame. The PVB or SG is key, keeping everything in place, even when the glass faces impact. The sandwich construction beefs up security against break-ins while adding soundproofing and heat reflection without compromising light, making your home as efficient as it is peaceful. Delve deeper and discover the sophisticated layers and design that make WinGuard the ideal choice for protecting and enhancing your home.
the Storm
Beyond
Outside Pane
The outside pane of PGT windows does more than just offer a clear view of your neighborhood, it's also the first line of defense. It's the final layer in a suite of technologies designed to keep your home secure, insulated, and energy-efficient. This single pane of glass enhances the window's overall insulating properties, ensuring that your home stays warmer in the winter and cooler in the summer, all while maintaining the crisp, clear sightlines you love.
UV Performance Coating
The UV Performance Coating applied to the glass surface is engineered to reduce solar heat gain while maintaining high levels of visible light transmittance. The coating operates on a molecular level to reflect long-wave infrared energy, contributing to the window's thermal efficiency. The reduction of UV and infrared light penetration not only decreases energy costs associated with cooling but also protects against the detrimental effects of UV exposure on interior fabrics and finishes.
Insulating Air Space
The insulating air space is situated between the laminated glass pane and the outer glass pane, where it creates a thermal and acoustic buffer. The space acts as a buffer, slowing down heat transfer and muffling noise. This thermal barrier is fundamental in reducing the U-value of the window, a measure of its insulation performance that contributes to a stable interior environment. An option to incorporate inert argon gas within this space increases the window's ability to inhibit heat transfer.
Thermoplastic Spacer (TPS)
The Thermoplastic Spacer system is integral to the window's insulating capabilities, keeping them fog-free and energy-efficient. The innovative system establishes an airtight and moisture-resistant seal that enhances the overall thermal insulation of the window assembly, prevents condensation between the panels, and maintains the air or gas-filled space between the panes. The spacer makes sure your windows are fortified against the elements, providing a bulwark against heat and cold.
The Interlayer
The interlayer, a crucial component of laminated glass, consists of a transparent, shatter-resistant membrane of polyvinyl butyral (PVB). This layer is designed to flex without breaking, preventing shattering and penetration, and ensuring that even if the glass cracks, your home stays sealed from the elements. Beyond its toughness, the interlayer is a guardian against ultraviolet radiation, reducing the sun's ability to fade your furniture and decor.
Laminated Glass
Laminated glass in an impact-resistant window is comprised of two sturdy panes of glass bonded together with a transparent, shatter-resistant interlayer. This configuration enhances the structural integrity of the glass, allowing it to maintain its form and position even when subjected to high-impact forces. Even in the event the glass does break, the inner layer keeps it safely in place. In addition to protection against break-ins and storm-driven debris, the layering provides significant sound attenuation.
Multi-Chambered Frame
PGT WinGuard Vinyl windows and doors feature a multi-chambered frame and warm-edge spacer technology to increase energy efficiency. Exclusive to vinyl, these custom-built frames are made of 100% virgin uPVC* vinyl, which contains micro ingredients that enhance heat and color stability. For ultimate climate control at the height of summer or the dead of winter, PGT WinGuard Vinyl windows and doors are the only choice you need to make. Unlike wood sashes and frames that split, rot, and require regular painting, vinyl frames are virtually maintenance-free and highly resistant to the environmental factors that limit the life of wooden frames.
Outside Pane
The outside pane of PGT windows does more than just offer a clear view of your neighborhood, it's the first line of defense. It's the final layer in a suite of technologies designed to keep your home secure, insulated, and energy-efficient. This single pane of glass enhances the window's overall insulating properties, ensuring that your home stays warmer in the winter and cooler in the summer, all while maintaining the crisp, clear sightlines you love.
UV Performance Coating
The UV Performance Coating applied to the glass surface is engineered to reduce solar heat gain while maintaining high levels of visible light transmittance. The coating operates on a molecular level to reflect long-wave infrared energy, contributing to the window's thermal efficiency. The reduction of UV and infrared light penetration not only decreases energy costs associated with cooling but also protects against the detrimental effects of UV exposure on interior fabrics and finishes.
Insulating Air Space
The insulating air space is situated between the laminated glass pane and the outer glass pane, where it creates a thermal and acoustic buffer. The space acts as a buffer, slowing down heat transfer and muffling noise. This thermal barrier is fundamental in reducing the U-value of the window, a measure of its insulation performance that contributes to a stable interior environment. An option to incorporate inert argon gas within this space increases the window's ability to inhibit heat transfer.
Thermoplastic Spacer (TPS)
The Thermoplastic Spacer (TPS) system is integral to the window's insulating capabilities, keeping them fog-free and energy-efficient. The innovative system establishes an airtight and moisture-resistant seal that enhances the overall thermal insulation of the window assembly, prevents condensation, and maintains the air or gas-filled space between the panes. The spacer makes sure your windows are fortified against the elements, providing a bulwark against heat and cold.
The Interlayer
The interlayer, a crucial component of laminated glass, consists of a transparent, shatter-resistant membrane of polyvinyl butyral (PVB). This layer is designed to flex without breaking, preventing shattering and penetration, and ensuring that even if the glass cracks, your home stays sealed from the elements. Beyond its toughness, the interlayer is a guardian against ultraviolet radiation, reducing the sun's ability to fade your furniture and decor.
Laminated Glass
Laminated glass in an impact-resistant window is comprised of two sturdy panes of glass bonded together with a transparent, shatter-resistant interlayer. This configuration enhances the structural integrity of the glass, allowing it to maintain its form and position even when subjected to high-impact forces. Even in the event the glass does break, the inner layer keeps it safely in place. In addition to protection against break-ins and storm-driven debris, the layering provides significant sound attenuation. An option to use low emissivity (Low-E) glass in the laminate structure offers improved thermal performance by reflecting infrared light.
Laminated glass
The
Interlayer
Thermoplastic Spacer (TPS)
Insulating
Air Space
UV
Performance Coating
Outside Pane
Laminated glass
The
Interlayer
Thermoplastic Spacer (TPS)
Insulating
Air Space
UV
Performance Coating
Outside Pane
Multi-Chambered Frame
WinGuard Aluminum
WinGuard Vinyl
Outside Pane
The outside pane of PGT windows does more than just offer a clear view of your neighborhood, it is also the first line of defense. It's the first layer in a suite of technologies designed to keep your home secure, insulated, and energy-efficient. This single pane of glass enhances the window's overall insulating properties, ensuring that your home stays warmer in the winter and cooler in the summer, all while maintaining the crisp, clear sightlines you love.
UV Performance Coating
The UV Performance Coating applied to the glass surface is engineered to reduce solar heat gain while maintaining high levels of visible light transmittance. The coating operates on a molecular level to reflect long-wave infrared energy, contributing to the window's thermal efficiency. The reduction of UV and infrared light penetration not only decreases energy costs associated with cooling but also protects against the detrimental effects of UV exposure on interior fabrics and finishes.
Insulating Air Space
The insulating air space is situated between the laminated glass pane and the outer glass pane, where it creates a thermal and acoustic buffer. The space acts as a buffer, slowing down heat transfer and muffling noise. This thermal barrier is fundamental in reducing the U-factor of the window, a measure of its insulation performance that contributes to a stable interior environment. An option to incorporate inert argon gas within this space increases the window's ability to inhibit heat transfer.
Thermoplastic Spacer (TPS)
The Thermoplastic Spacer (TPS) system is integral to the window's insulating capabilities, keeping them fog-free and energy-efficient. The innovative system establishes an airtight and moisture-resistant seal that enhances the overall thermal insulation of the window assembly, prevents condensation between the glass panels, and maintains the air or gas-filled space between the panes.
The Interlayer
The interlayer, a crucial component of laminated glass, consists of a transparent, shatter-resistant membrane of polyvinyl butyral (PVB) or SentryGlas (SG). This layer is designed to flex without breaking, preventing shattering and penetration, and ensuring that even if the glass cracks, your home stays sealed from the elements. While the glass can break when struck, the interlayer keeps broken glass in place and prevents it from becoming a hazard. Beyond its toughness, the interlayer is a guardian against ultraviolet rays, reducing the sun's ability to fade your furniture and decor.
Laminated Glass
Laminated glass in an impact-resistant window is comprised of two panes of glass bonded together with a transparent, shatter-resistant interlayer. This configuration enhances the structural integrity of the glass. Even in the event the glass does break, the inner layer keeps it safely in place. In addition to protection against break-ins and storm-driven debris, the layering provides sound attenuation.
Multi-Chambered Frame
PGT® WinGuard® Vinyl windows and doors feature a multi-chambered frame and warm-edge spacer technology to increase energy efficiency. Exclusive to vinyl, these custom-built frames are made of 100% virgin uPVC* vinyl, which contains micro ingredients that enhance heat and color stability. For ultimate climate control at the height of summer or the dead of winter, PGT® WinGuard® Vinyl windows and doors are the only choice you need to make. Unlike wood sashes and frames that split, rot, and require regular painting, vinyl frames are virtually maintenance-free and highly resistant to the environmental factors that limit the life of wooden frames.
Outside Pane
The outside pane of PGT windows does more than just offer a clear view of your neighborhood, it is also the first line of defense. It's the first layer in a suite of technologies designed to keep your home secure, insulated, and energy-efficient. This single pane of glass enhances the window's overall insulating properties, ensuring that your home stays warmer in the winter and cooler in the summer, all while maintaining the crisp, clear sightlines you love.
UV Performance Coating
The UV Performance Coating applied to the glass surface is engineered to reduce solar heat gain while maintaining high levels of visible light transmittance. The coating operates on a molecular level to reflect long-wave infrared energy, contributing to the window's thermal efficiency. The reduction of UV and infrared light penetration not only decreases energy costs associated with cooling but also protects against the detrimental effects of UV exposure on interior fabrics and finishes.
Insulating Air Space
The insulating air space is situated between the laminated glass pane and the outer glass pane, where it creates a thermal and acoustic buffer. The space acts as a buffer, slowing down heat transfer and muffling noise. This thermal barrier is fundamental in reducing the U-factor of the window, a measure of its insulation performance that contributes to a stable interior environment. An option to incorporate inert argon gas within this space increases the window's ability to inhibit heat transfer.
Thermoplastic Spacer (TPS)
The Thermoplastic Spacer (TPS) system is integral to the window's insulating capabilities, keeping them fog-free and energy-efficient. The innovative system establishes an airtight and moisture-resistant seal that enhances the overall thermal insulation of the window assembly, prevents condensation between the glass panels, and maintains the air or gas-filled space between the panes.
The Interlayer
The interlayer, a crucial component of laminated glass, consists of a transparent, shatter-resistant membrane of polyvinyl butyral (PVB) or SentryGlas (SG). This layer is designed to flex without breaking, preventing shattering and penetration, and ensuring that even if the glass cracks, your home stays sealed from the elements. While the glass can break when struck, the interlayer keeps broken glass in place and prevents it from becoming a hazard. Beyond its toughness, the interlayer is a guardian against ultraviolet rays, reducing the sun's ability to fade your furniture and decor.
Laminated Glass
Laminated glass in an impact-resistant window is comprised of two panes of glass bonded together with a transparent, shatter-resistant interlayer. This configuration enhances the structural integrity of the glass. Even in the event the glass does break, the inner layer keeps it safely in place. In addition to protection against break-ins and storm-driven debris, the layering provides sound attenuation.
Laminated glass
The
Interlayer
Thermoplastic Spacer (TPS)
Insulating
Air Space
UV
Performance Coating
Outside Pane
Laminated glass
The
Interlayer
Thermoplastic Spacer (TPS)
Insulating
Air Space
UV
Performance Coating
Outside Pane
Multi-Chambered Frame
WinGuard Aluminum
WinGuard Vinyl
Outside Pane
The outside pane of PGT windows does more than just offer a clear view of your neighborhood, it is also the first line of defense. It's the first layer in a suite of technologies designed to keep your home secure, insulated, and energy-efficient. This single pane of glass enhances the window's overall insulating properties, ensuring that your home stays warmer in the winter and cooler in the summer, all while maintaining the crisp, clear sightlines you love.
UV Performance Coating
The UV Performance Coating applied to the glass surface is engineered to reduce solar heat gain while maintaining high levels of visible light transmittance. The coating operates on a molecular level to reflect long-wave infrared energy, contributing to the window's thermal efficiency. The reduction of UV and infrared light penetration not only decreases energy costs associated with cooling but also protects against the detrimental effects of UV exposure on interior fabrics and finishes.
Insulating Air Space
The insulating air space is situated between the laminated glass pane and the outer glass pane, where it creates a thermal and acoustic buffer. The space acts as a buffer, slowing down heat transfer and muffling noise. This thermal barrier is fundamental in reducing the U-factor of the window, a measure of its insulation performance that contributes to a stable interior environment. An option to incorporate inert argon gas within this space increases the window's ability to inhibit heat transfer.
Thermoplastic Spacer (TPS)
The Thermoplastic Spacer (TPS) system is integral to the window's insulating capabilities, keeping them fog-free and energy-efficient. The innovative system establishes an airtight and moisture-resistant seal that enhances the overall thermal insulation of the window assembly, prevents condensation between the glass panels, and maintains the air or gas-filled space between the panes.
The Interlayer
The interlayer, a crucial component of laminated glass, consists of a transparent, shatter-resistant membrane of polyvinyl butyral (PVB) or SentryGlas (SG). This layer is designed to flex without breaking, preventing shattering and penetration, and ensuring that even if the glass cracks, your home stays sealed from the elements. While the glass can break when struck, the interlayer keeps broken glass in place and prevents it from becoming a hazard. Beyond its toughness, the interlayer is a guardian against ultraviolet rays, reducing the sun's ability to fade your furniture and decor.
Laminated Glass
Laminated glass in an impact-resistant window is comprised of two panes of glass bonded together with a transparent, shatter-resistant interlayer. This configuration enhances the structural integrity of the glass. Even in the event the glass does break, the inner layer keeps it safely in place. In addition to protection against break-ins and storm-driven debris, the layering provides sound attenuation.
Multi-Chambered Frame
PGT® WinGuard® Vinyl windows and doors feature a multi-chambered frame and warm-edge spacer technology to increase energy efficiency. Exclusive to vinyl, these custom-built frames are made of 100% virgin uPVC* vinyl, which contains micro ingredients that enhance heat and color stability. For ultimate climate control at the height of summer or the dead of winter, PGT® WinGuard® Vinyl windows and doors are the only choice you need to make. Unlike wood sashes and frames that split, rot, and require regular painting, vinyl frames are virtually maintenance-free and highly resistant to the environmental factors that limit the life of wooden frames.
Outside Pane
The outside pane of PGT windows does more than just offer a clear view of your neighborhood, it is also the first line of defense. It's the first layer in a suite of technologies designed to keep your home secure, insulated, and energy-efficient. This single pane of glass enhances the window's overall insulating properties, ensuring that your home stays warmer in the winter and cooler in the summer, all while maintaining the crisp, clear sightlines you love.
UV Performance Coating
The UV Performance Coating applied to the glass surface is engineered to reduce solar heat gain while maintaining high levels of visible light transmittance. The coating operates on a molecular level to reflect long-wave infrared energy, contributing to the window's thermal efficiency. The reduction of UV and infrared light penetration not only decreases energy costs associated with cooling but also protects against the detrimental effects of UV exposure on interior fabrics and finishes.
Insulating Air Space
The insulating air space is situated between the laminated glass pane and the outer glass pane, where it creates a thermal and acoustic buffer. The space acts as a buffer, slowing down heat transfer and muffling noise. This thermal barrier is fundamental in reducing the U-factor of the window, a measure of its insulation performance that contributes to a stable interior environment. An option to incorporate inert argon gas within this space increases the window's ability to inhibit heat transfer.
Thermoplastic Spacer (TPS)
The Thermoplastic Spacer (TPS) system is integral to the window's insulating capabilities, keeping them fog-free and energy-efficient. The innovative system establishes an airtight and moisture-resistant seal that enhances the overall thermal insulation of the window assembly, prevents condensation between the glass panels, and maintains the air or gas-filled space between the panes.
The Interlayer
The interlayer, a crucial component of laminated glass, consists of a transparent, shatter-resistant membrane of polyvinyl butyral (PVB) or SentryGlas (SG). This layer is designed to flex without breaking, preventing shattering and penetration, and ensuring that even if the glass cracks, your home stays sealed from the elements. While the glass can break when struck, the interlayer keeps broken glass in place and prevents it from becoming a hazard. Beyond its toughness, the interlayer is a guardian against ultraviolet rays, reducing the sun's ability to fade your furniture and decor.
Laminated Glass
Laminated glass in an impact-resistant window is comprised of two panes of glass bonded together with a transparent, shatter-resistant interlayer. This configuration enhances the structural integrity of the glass. Even in the event the glass does break, the inner layer keeps it safely in place. In addition to protection against break-ins and storm-driven debris, the layering provides sound attenuation.
Laminated glass
The
Interlayer
Thermoplastic Spacer (TPS)
Insulating
Air Space
UV
Performance Coating
Outside Pane
Laminated glass
The
Interlayer
Thermoplastic Spacer (TPS)
Insulating
Air Space
UV
Performance Coating
Outside Pane
Multi-Chambered Frame
WinGuard Aluminum
WinGuard Vinyl