Fire-Rated Windows Explained: 45–90 Minutes

Fire-rated windows are one of the most misunderstood systems in commercial and high-end residential construction. They look like standard glazing systems.They install like standard glazing systems.But under extreme heat, they behave very differently. Let’s break down exactly how fire-rated windows work, what 45–90 minute ratings mean, how they’re tested, and why steel is the clear […]
Positive Pressure Fire Testing: Why It Matters

Positive pressure fire testing is one of the most critical standards in modern fire-rated window and door design. When a fire breaks out, pressure changes inside a room can force flames and heat toward openings.If a window system fails under that pressure, fire spreads fast. That’s why understanding positive pressure fire conditions and UL 10C […]
Fire-Rated Windows: 7 Powerful Benefits

Fire-rated windows are no longer just a code requirement.They are a strategic upgrade for safety, design, and long-term performance. When fire hits a building, time becomes everything.The right window system can mean the difference between containment and catastrophe. Let’s break down the real benefits of installing fire-rated windows and why architects, developers, and homeowners are […]
FR4700 Steel Casement Windows: Safety in Style

A Legacy of Safety and Style For decades, Optimum Window has stood as the trusted name in Fire-Rated steel window manufacturing, earning the confidence of architects, builders, and homeowners nationwide. In the photo above, our skilled craftspeople are hard at work creating the FR4700 Steel Casement Window — a system known for its strength, precision, […]
Safety Meets Design at Abraham Lincoln High School

Safety is the name of the game with Optimum Window fire-rated steel.At Abraham Lincoln High School in Brooklyn, New York, our FR8600 fire-rated steel window series is making a bold statement. It proves that protection and design can stand side by side. Why Schools Trust the FR8600 Series When it comes to educational facilities, nothing […]
When Are Fire-Rated Windows Required?

Fire-rated windows are non-negotiable in code-driven construction, especially when safety and fire containment are on the line. Let’s break down exactly when fire-rated windows are required, what makes them different, and why building inspectors won’t let you pass without them. What Are Fire-Rated Windows? Fire-rated windows are designed to withstand high heat for a specific […]
The Strength of Fire-Rated Steel: Safety Without Compromise

For years, Optimum Window has been the trusted name in fire-rated steel windows and doors, delivering top-tier protection without sacrificing design flexibility. In a world where safety standards are constantly evolving, our skilled craftspeople work tirelessly to create high-performance solutions that not only meet but exceed industry requirements. Built for Protection, Designed for Style The […]
Fire-Rated Glass vs. Regular Glass: What’s the Difference?

When it comes to fire safety, the materials we choose can make all the difference. But what exactly sets fire-rated glass apart from regular glass? If you’re pondering that, you’re in the right place. Let’s break it down. What Is Fire-Rated Glass? Fire-rated glass is designed to hold up against high heat and prevent the […]
Why Our Fire-Rated Windows Are the Trusted Choice for Safety and Style

A Tradition of Excellence in Fire-Rated Windows At Optimum Window, fire-rated windows aren’t just products—they’re our promise to protect while enhancing your space’s design. For over three decades, we’ve crafted solutions that blend durability, beauty, and, most importantly, safety. So, whether you’re installing fire-rated windows in a family home, a high-rise, or a heritage building, […]
Top 7 Benefits of Fire-Rated Steel Windows for Architects and Builders

In the world of architecture and construction, fire-rated steel windows are more than just an aesthetic choice—they are a critical component of fire safety. For architects and builders, understanding the benefits of fire-rated glass and how it integrates into a building’s overall fire protection system is paramount. In this article, we will explore the top seven […]