Understanding Hurricane Product Approvals – Layout Drawings

Layout drawings reveal far more than most teams realize. They tell you exactly how a hurricane-rated sliding door system is tested—and what its real-world limitations are.

Key questions to ask when reviewing layout drawings:

• What’s the maximum number of tested tracks? (This can limit total clear opening.)

• Are "unlimited panels" stacking on the same track? (If so, they won’t all fully open.)

• Does the maximum panel size reduce the usable frame width? (Especially important with 15', 20', or multi-panel openings.)

• Are the meeting stiles reinforced?

• Do the interlocks require reinforcement at certain heights?

• How wide are the tracks? (Some exceed wall thickness and need design accommodation.)

Bottom line: if you’re not studying layout drawings closely, you may be designing a system that can’t perform as expected.

I help architects and builders review and interpret layout drawings, product approvals, and installation details—ensuring every design works as intended, without bias to any specific manufacturer.