Living in Toronto, where weather can be unpredictable, homeowners often wonder if skylights are hail-proof. You might wonder “Will hail end up through my window?” The short answer is that while skylights are designed to withstand various weather conditions, including hail, their resistance may vary.
Understanding Skylight Materials
Skylights are a popular feature in modern architecture and they are used to bring in natural light and add a unique aesthetic appeal to a space. Skylights can be made with different materials, such as tempered glass and polycarbonate, and their ability to resist hail damage depends on the material used. Rest assured you will never have to worry, “what will happen if hail goes through my window?”
Tempered glass is a type of safety glass that is commonly used in buildings, vehicles, and various other applications. One of its popular uses is for skylights due to its strength and durability. The process of manufacturing tempered glass involves a special treatment that makes it more resistant to impacts, including hailstones.
During the manufacturing process, the glass is heated to a very high temperature of around 600 degrees Celsius and then rapidly cooled using a process known as quenching. This rapid cooling creates a strong outer layer that is under compression and a relatively weak inner layer that is under tension. This design makes tempered glass more resistant to impact and less likely to break into sharp pieces that can cause harm.
In addition to its strength and durability, tempered glass is also known for its ability to withstand temperature changes better than regular glass. This makes it an ideal choice for skylights, which are exposed to both extreme heat and cold. Overall, tempered glass is a reliable and safe option for skylights and other applications that require strong, durable, and impact-resistant glass.
Hail Resistant
Polycarbonate is another common material used for skylights and it is also hail-resistant. It is a type of plastic that is known for its impact resistance and strength, making it an ideal choice for high-risk areas. Polycarbonate skylights provide added protection against hail damage and can help to ensure that your skylight lasts for many years to come.
When choosing a skylight, it is important to consider the material used and its ability to resist hail damage. Tempered glass and polycarbonate are both excellent choices and can provide the durability and protection that you need to keep your skylight looking great for years to come.
Impact on Longevity
If you have skylights installed in your building, it’s important to keep in mind that while they are designed to withstand harsh weather conditions, they are not completely immune to damage caused by severe hailstorms. Over time, repeated exposure to hail can cause damage to the skylight, which can impact its longevity. Therefore, it is recommended that you consult with a professional to assess the specific needs of your location in Toronto to ensure that your skylight is properly protected against hail damage.
In addition, regular maintenance and inspections can help identify any potential issues before they become major concerns. By scheduling routine maintenance and inspections, you can ensure that your skylight is in good condition and functioning optimally.
This can help prevent costly repairs or replacements down the line, which can be both time-consuming and expensive. So, it’s better to take preventive measures and keep your skylight in top condition.
