Given the typical features of glass fenestrations and façade systems, and their common use in buildings with several classes of use, the research on their impact resistance represents a key task for the protection of people. In this regard, the paper focuses on the experimental analysis of the impact performance and resistance of ordinary glass windows. Special care is spent for traditional systems that can be typically found in residential / commercial buildings, namely windows with timber frame as well as windows with plastic (PVC) frame. The dynamic performance of such systems is analysed experimentally, in accordance with the standard ball drop test method, and the collected outcomes are discussed to assess the fundamental dynamic mechanical characteristics of the examined fenestrations.
