PROTECT WINDOWS AND GLASS DOORS WITH STORM SHUTTERS Storm shutters prevent windows from breaking when there is windborne debris. You can also add shatter- resistant film or stormproof high-impact glass to defend glass from breaking.
For those living in hurricane zones, hurricane shutters are a must-have because they provide better protection for your windows than plywood. They come in several styles and materials that look good, too. So when looking for the best hurricane shutters, homeowners need to consider style, function and material.
Hurricane-grade windows are generally made with two pieces of heat treated glass bonded together to a thin plastic membrane. There are many other material options but this membrane is typically made from polyvinyl butyral (PVB) or ionoplast polymer.
Hardware for Window Safety
In addition to films, you can install security bars to prevent burglars from entering through windows. These bars are secured to the frame of the window and may be opened when you're home so you can enjoy some fresh air. Locks keep the bars in place at night or when the house is empty.
Others lug the storm shutters out of storage. However, using plywood to board up your windows is still a viable choice. Depending on the strength of the storm, it may not prevent all damage to your doors and windows, but it definitely helps!
Storm panels are the least expensive option for hurricane protection, costing $5-$15 per square foot. Accordion hurricane shutters cost slightly more, usually $15-$20 per square foot. If you need protection for larger areas, hurricane screens can be purchased for a price of $20-$30 per square foot.
Plywood. The most common and least expensive way to protect windows from storm damage is boarding up with plywood. This option provides protection from most forms of debris, but requires the most work by homeowners and is only a temporary solution to protect from immediate storm damage.
If you don't have hurricane windows, you'll need to prepare for a potential disaster by purchasing your materials in advance. As a relatively easy and affordable insurance policy, plywood-covered windows are less likely to break or blow out, keeping a dangerous situation from getting worse.
Another common point of failure during a hurricane is improperly reinforced windows. Unlike most reinforced doors, glass windows are dangerously susceptible to wind-borne debris.
Boarding up windows with plywood can prevent dangerous debris from smashing into your home during a tropical storm with violent winds. If a storm is forecast for your area soon, now is the time to learn how to board up windows – it might take an hour to measure, cut, build and install each storm shutter.
According to Ocean Impact Windows, standard residential windows typically can be expected to sustain winds up to 77 mph before shattering. More advance windows are able to sustain winds up to 173 mph!
If storm shutters, impact-resistant windows, or plywood aren't an option, you can also secure your windows with tape or film.
In the event of a strong storm, plywood boards do a pretty good job of protecting windows from flying storm debris. And, in the case of civil unrest, boarded up windows and doors are protected from vandalism and keep looters out of your business.
Hurricane screens are designed to protect your home from wind-driven rain and flying debris. The right screens can handle wind speeds of up to 276 miles per hour, can block debris, and help to prevent leaks from strong rains. Most screens also block about 97% of dust and debris.
Hurricane windows may be pricey, but they're a great way to protect your investment. But if you already own a home or you've purchased a home without storm windows, it's time to consider upgrading your windows.
Installation of hurricane-proof windows can actually give you an excellent return on your investment – between 75-85% – if you plan to sell or even refinance your home in the near future.
Stay indoors during the hurricane and away from windows and glass doors. Close all interior doors – secure and brace external doors. Keep curtains and blinds closed. Do not be fooled if there is a lull; it could be the eye of the storm – winds will pick up again.
“Reduce the chance for damage to your roof by closing all the interior doors to compartmentalize pressure in the event wind finds a way into a home through a broken window, compromised garage door, or other opening. Once inside, wind can create strong upward pressure on the roof that will try to pop the roof off.
Polycarbonate Unbreakable Glass
In fact, according to some estimates a polycarbonate window is over 200 times more resistant to impact! Compared to standard glass windows, they offer superior protection against burglaries and weather-related disasters.
Devices that limit the opening of panels to prevent air currents from moving the panels around uncontrollably and thus potentially damaging the window frame structure.