Choosing Hurricane Window Protection

Hurricane window protection helps safeguard the most vulnerable part of your house in the event of a storm. High winds can send projectiles flying through your windows. The high pressure that results from the glass break can either blow out the windows on the other side or take off your roof. Proper protection is essential to prevent this from happening to you.
Choosing Hurricane Window

Here are some things to consider when choosing window protection for your home:
o How easy is the product to install? Can you do it yourself, or will you need to hire a professional?
o Consider the cost of the product. If you can DIY, the cost will be less.
o How easy will it be to prepare the home for an impending storm? Are the shutters fixed to the home, or will you need to hang them?
o Consider the areas you need protected. Take into consideration windows and doors. Don’t forget the garage door, which may need additional support.

Shutters for Hurricane Window Protection

Accordion Shutters
Accordion shutters come in either one or two pieces. They are permanently attached to the sides of the window, so you won’t need to take them on and off the house. They unfold to cover the window, like an accordion. They are easy to close for one person and lock with a key.
Bahama Shutters
Bahama Shutters attach above the windows and are propped open when not in use. This has an additional benefit of providing shade from the sun. When needed, lower the shutters and secure to the wall. This job is easily done by one person.
Colonial Shutters
Colonial style hurricane shutters come in two pieces and have a louvered design. They are attached to both sides of the window and are easily closed when needed. Most use a storm rod to lock them in place. These are good for decoration as well as protection.
Roll Down Shutters
Roll down shutters are attached to the wall above the windows. The shutters are stored in a closed box. When needed, push a button to lower them and lock them in place. These are more expensive, but offer excellent protection. Look for a system that has a battery back up. This will allow you to open them in the event of a power failure.
Storm Panels
Storm panels are made of either aluminium or steel. They attach to the window on tracks. Each piece overlaps for increased strength. You will need to install these prior to a storm. The panels slide into the tracks and are bolted. This can be cumbersome and you may need help in putting them up.

Special Glass for Hurricane Windows

Impact resistant glass is a fairly new product. This is becoming very popular in new home construction for homes in hurricane prone areas. They are available for both windows and sliding glass doors. Since the window is always there, you don’t need to do anything to prepare for bad weather.
These can be added to existing homes, but can be very expensive. This is not a do it yourself job. You will need a professional installer to do the job right. If not properly installed, your home will not be protected. The glass in these windows meets current codes in Florida for home protection.