Under certain conditions, the vinyl frame can deform under radiant heat and direct flame exposures much sooner than that required to break the glass. The window fails when the deformed frame allows the glass to fall out completely or a gap between glass and frame develops. The most significant problem is with windows that have a horizontal (i.e., a hung window) or vertical (i.e., a slider window) separator member in the middle of the window. Research has shown that as long as the horizontal or vertical separator has an internal reinforcement bar, the deformation won't occur. Vinyl windows that are certified to comply with the AAMA/WDMA/CSA 101/I.S.2/A440 Standard/Specification possess this feature. Look for labeled products indicating this certification.
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