Storm panels provide Florida homeowners and business owners with protection from hurricanes and other severe weather. But they do require installation, removal and storage. These are aspects that are generally looked at as negatives of hurricane panels. But knowing how to store your storm panels properly can make the installation process easier and less frustrating. It can also reduce injuries and save some valuable storage room in your home. We’ll discuss how to properly store storm panels to make your life easier.
Safety first: always protect yourself
We recommend wearing proper protection anytime you handle hurricane panels. Why? Storm panels are treated with a film of oil to prevent corrosion and prolong their useful life. Using proper gloves is recommended to reduce any negative effects.
Also, in general we recommend using extreme caution when handling your storm panels. Be aware of all potential risks, such as cuts, dropping the panels on yourself or someone else, or having the panels fall on someone, including yourself.
Safety should always be the number one priority.
How to store storm panels properly
You should store your storm panels in a flat, safe area as opposed to being storing them vertically or leaning them against something. There is a simple reason for this. If panels are not flat they have the potential to fall onto your property and/or onto people.
Also, we don’t recommend you store your panels in a location above your head. This is because metal and aluminum panels are very heavy. This would create a dangerous situation when getting them down.
Alternatively, you can store your storm panels in a storage rack. Your hurricane shutter company should be able to provide one for you.
Pay attention to the numbers and order when storing your panels
Your storm panels should be numbered by position. Paying special attention to these numbers will make your storm panel installation a lot easier and quicker. In turn, install, remove and store your storm panels in the appropriate order.
If you need help with the installation read our guide on how to install hurricane shutters panels.
Don’t forget about your panel’s hardware
Your panels are not much use without the hardware. Store your fastening bolts/screws and other hardware in a safe place. Also, come up with a system to organize your hardware. For example, you could use zip lock bags to hold hardware for specific windows. Or come up with your own organization system to remember which hardware is for which panels and windows (if applicable). This will make it a lot easier when it comes time to install your panels.
