Dec 10 2007 9:12AM | Permalink | Email this | Comments (0) |
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There’s just something about product testing that stirs a long-stymied voice within me, a side that longs to see things blown up, smashed, crashed and/or incinerated. Call it juvenile. But seeing a 2x4 obliterating a window at 50-mph? Awesome.

This video from the American Architectural Manufacturer’s Association shows the real-world effects of a Category-3 hurricane, simulating what coastal dwellers have known for years. While not as abrupt as a projectile hitting glass, the video does realistically portray the howling winds and devastating rainfall that accompanies a hurricane. Said winds and rainfall were provided by a bank of industrial fans powered by four marine engines. High-pressure water jets blasted the mock-up provided by Architectural Testing, Inc.

According to the AAMA, the purpose of the demonstration was solely educational. “Although most residential and light commercial properties that are built in compliance with current codes will physically withstand hurricane winds, water intrusion through windows, doors and walls remains an issue. When rain penetrates these exterior building products and their assemblies, it often causes significant interior damage, occupant displacement, business interruption, and extensive restoration expenses,” says the organization in a press release. “The information gathered will help us ensure performance of the windows, doors and wall assemblies under real-world hurricane conditions, and ultimately, protect more people and properties from costly damages,” said Rich Walker, AAMA’s president and CEO.

Watch the video here