Performance of hurricane shutters under impact by roof tiles

This paper presents an experimental investigation of the performance of shutter systems designed to protect windows from windborne debris. Observations from post hurricane damage investigations have found that a wide variety of windborne debris types cause damage to buildings, including roof tiles in residential neighborhoods. This investigation subjected steel and aluminum storm panel shutters to impact from concrete roof tiles commonly used in hurricane prone regions. 4.1 kg (9 lb) tiles were launched at 15.25 m/s (50 fps) using a custom apparatus, duplicating the 2×4 (in.) lumber impact product certification test in both missile weight and impact speed. The tests were then repeated using 2×4 lumber, providing a comparison of performance as a function of debris type. The test matrix included steel panels of three different thicknesses and aluminum panels of two different thicknesses. Three manufacturers of each of the five storm panel types were tested, each using two common installation methods. Tests were conducted with tiles impacting on their edge and impacting flat. Results demonstrate a significant difference in both total and plastic shutter deflection for tile impacts vs. 2×4 lumber. With regard to the vulnerability of the glass being protected, the results suggest that the current standards may not be conservative under circumstances likely to occur in tile roof residential neighborhoods.