Hurricane-impact windows to get critical test with Irma

Even 2x4 tests don’t replicate actual hurricane conditions.

Will hurricane-resistant windows hold up to Hurricane Irma’s winds, still rated as among the most powerful for a storm ever?

“It looks like we’re going to find out,” said Peter Dyga, president of the East Coast chapter of the Associated Builders and Contractors, the largest construction organization in the state.

Not since Hurricane Andrew in 1992 has Florida seen the potential for such a violent wind storm. After that historic catastrophe, which devastated Homestead and other parts of southern MiamiDade Count y, building codes were tightened and new products created.

Among the changes: The creation of hurricane-resistant windows, tested in labs with 2x4s hitting them at a force of 140 mph, Dyga said.

Dyga acknowledged that the force tested in a lab is not the steady, sustained wind of 140 mph or more that a hurricane can

can get those tanker trucks there faster and allow residents and visitors to evacuate quicker or reduce the level of panic and concern locally, then we fully support the governor’s use of these resources.”

While some motorists are fueling up so they can stay home and operate generators, others hope to leave the state altogether. On Thursday, Scott asked gas stations to exte nd t hei r hours to accommodate the demand.

“Please stay open as long as possible so people can get out,” Scott said. “We will arrange police escorts for your employees so they can get out safely.”

Scott suggested using the GasBuddy app to find stations that are open. And he asked Floridians who plan to stay home or at nearby shelters not to buy gas.

“You don’t need to fill your tank to the brim to stay in the county,” Scott said.