The short answer
Wind Pressure and Suction Forces
Hurricane winds create rapid changes in air pressure around a home. These forces push and pull on windows with immense power. The suction can be strong enough to pull a window out of its frame from the inside. Once a seal breaks, wind and water rush into your home, causing immediate damage.
This pressure cycling can also stress the glass and frame over the storm's duration. Even windows that don't blow out immediately can suffer from structural fatigue. Small cracks or gaps can form, allowing water to infiltrate behind walls. This hidden moisture leads to mold and rot long after the storm passes.
Impact from Flying Debris
One of the most common causes of window failure is impact. Hurricanes turn everyday objects like tree branches, roof tiles, and patio furniture into dangerous projectiles. When this debris strikes a window, the glass can shatter completely. This creates a large opening for wind and rain to enter the living space.
The speed of the debris determines the severity of the impact. A small object moving at high speed can concentrate force on a tiny point. Standard annealed glass cannot withstand this kind of strike. Once the protective barrier is gone, interior belongings and structure are exposed to the storm's full fury.
- Broken tree limbs and uprooted vegetation.
- Loose roof shingles, vents, or satellite dishes.
- Unsecured outdoor furniture, grills, or decorations.
- Garbage cans, garden tools, and construction materials.
- Siding, fencing, or pieces from neighboring structures.
- Any small object picked up by the swirling winds.
Frame and Seal Failure
The window frame and its seal are critical weak points. Over time, wooden frames can rot, and metal frames can corrode, especially in a humid climate. The sealant or caulking around the window degrades from sun exposure and temperature changes. A compromised seal provides an easy path for water intrusion long before the glass fails.
During a hurricane, the constant flexing of the house can twist window frames. This movement breaks the weatherproofing bond between the frame and the wall. Once water gets behind the exterior siding or brick, it travels into wall cavities. This leads to hidden water damage that requires professional inspection and drying.
Immediate Water Damage Risks
When a window fails, water pours directly into your home. This can quickly ruin flooring, furniture, and drywall. The volume of water can be overwhelming, leading to pooling and immediate saturation. Electrical systems can be compromised, creating a shock hazard that requires an electrician to address.
Standing water from a breached window soaks into subfloors and baseboards. It wicks up drywall, causing it to swell and lose integrity. In a matter of hours, porous materials like carpet and insulation can become irreparably damaged. Fast action is needed to remove water and start the drying process to prevent secondary issues.
What to Do After a Failure
Your first priority is safety. Avoid standing water if power is still on, and watch for broken glass. If it is safe to do so, you can try to cover the broken window opening from the inside with plywood or heavy plastic to limit further water entry. Document the damage with photos for your insurance company before moving or throwing anything away.
Contact local water damage pros for emergency water extraction and structural drying. They have industrial equipment to remove water and dry out wall cavities and subfloors. Leaving water to sit promotes mold growth within 24 to 48 hours. Policies vary, and your insurer decides what is covered, so check your policy and start a claim promptly.
- Ensure the area is safe from electrical hazards and glass.
- Temporarily cover the opening to stop more rain from entering.
- Take clear photographs and videos of all damage for documentation.
- Remove small, salvageable items from the wet area if possible.
- Contact professionals for water extraction and drying services.
- Begin the insurance claims process by notifying your provider.
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Call (240) 261-5117 any time, day or night, and describe what happened.
Call Now (240) 261-5117Frequently asked questions
How can I tell if my windows are hurricane-resistant?
Look for a permanent label or etching indicating they meet a high-impact standard, such as those tested for large missile impact. Hurricane-resistant windows have a laminated glass layer and are installed in reinforced frames. Check your local building codes for the specific requirements in your area.
Can interior furnishings cause window failure?
Yes. If wind gets inside through another opening, it can pressurize the home. This internal pressure can blow out windows from the inside. That's why it's critical to protect all openings, including garage doors, to equalize pressure and prevent this type of structural failure.
What type of professional helps with the water damage?
After securing the opening, you need water damage restoration professionals. They handle water extraction, drying of structures, and cleaning of salvageable contents. For repairs to drywall, flooring, or framing, they coordinate with qualified carpenters and contractors to restore your home.
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