Living in a hurricane-prone area like Fort Myers or Naples requires being prepared for hurricane season every year. When it comes to protecting your home from the powerful forces of a major storm, hurricane protection is critical. You may opt for hurricane fabric, hurricane window shutters, impact windows, or another form of protection. But being protected and prepared is the most important thing. Storm shutters cost is a small price to pay for the peace of mind that hurricane window protection provides. So don’t wait until a storm is approaching – take proactive measures to safeguard your home from hurricane damage before storm season starts. If you are new to storm protection that is OK. In this article we provide an introduction to what hurricane protection is, why you need it, what your options are, and more.
What is Hurricane Protection?
Hurricane protection is a class of products designed specifically to protect your home and prevent major damage caused by hurricane force winds and flying debris. There are many different types of protection, from shutters and windows to fabric, as we will discuss below. However, they all serve the same purpose, which is to protect your home vs hurricane force winds and flying debris.
These products cover your home’s vulnerable areas, such as windows, doors, or other areas that will break during a hurricane. They create an impact resistant barrier over your windows, doors, etc. They are designed to withstand extreme winds, positive and negative pressures, and the impacts of flying objects.
Importance of Storm Protection
Hurricane season can be stressful for homeowners, especially those living in coastal regions. It is important to understand the risks that hurricanes pose. It is also important to understand the potential damage they can cause to your home and life.
One of the most vulnerable areas on your home are non-impact windows and doors. Non-impact glass cab shatter from hurricane force winds and flying debris. And when glass breaks you have exposed openings, which can lead to more serious damaged during a hurricane. For instance, your home may suffer from water intrusion, wind damage inside your home, broken glass, and more. Exposed openings can also cause your home to become pressurized. This can result in structural damage, your roof to detach, or worse.
Hurricane protection becomes critical for homeowners affected by hurricane season. It is critical for protecting your home as well as ensuring the safety of your loved ones. We discuss each of these important considerations below.
Protecting Your Home vs Hurricane Force Winds
Hurricane storm protection is made to protect your home and reduce the amount of damage during a hurricane. Recently, hurricanes seem to be getting stronger. They are also happening more often. Most homes, even those in coastal areas are not built to withstand the wrath of a major hurricane. It is becoming more and more important to take the necessary precautions to protect your home from these damaging storms.
One important step for preparing your home is investing in hurricane protection.
Ensuring the Safety of your Loved Ones
When it comes to protecting your home from the devastation of hurricanes, ensuring safety is paramount. One of the most effective ways to safeguard your windows and prevent them from shattering during a storm is by investing in hurricane window protection. By installing impact-resistant windows or using hurricane shutters, you can minimize the risk of damage to your property and keep your loved ones safe. So while hurricane protection can be an investment, the protection and peace of mind it provides are priceless.
Types of Hurricane Window Protection
There are many different types of hurricane protection. So many in fact that it can get a bit overwhelmning trying to choose the right solution. The type you choose will ultimately depend on your preferences as well as your budget and other considerations.
It is important to note that if you live in a high velocity hurricane zone (HVHZ) you will need to choose products approved for HVHZ use. While most types of protection are high velocity hurricane zone approved this may limit your selection a bit.
It is also important to note that you want to pick hurricane-rated protection. These are systems and products that meet the Florida Building Code and have a Florida Product Approval.
Overwhelmed? Do not be! Below we give an intro to all the different types of storm protection products that are available.
Hurricane Shutters
Hurricane shutters, also called storm shutters are installed on the exterior of your home. They protect your home’s windows, doors, and other openings vs hurricanes.
Storm shutters are a type of active hurricane protection solution. This means you must actively deploy (close and secure) them before a storm in order to protect your home.
Shutters are impact resistant. They shield your windows against extreme winds, flying debris, and positive and negative pressure. Because of this they help prevent costly damage to your home’s interior as well as structural damage.
There are many types of shutters available. From utilitarian storm panels to accordion shutters and motorized roll down shutters. There are even decorative hurricane shutters, such as Bahama shutters and Colonial shutters. There really is a hurricane shutter to fit every budget and need.
Types of Hurricane Shutters
The different types of hurricane shutters include:
Roll down shutters
These shutters close by rolling up and down on vertical tracks on the side of the opening. They are available in both manual and motorized operation.
Accordion shutters
Accordions slide open and closed horizontally along horizontal tracks on the top and bottom of the opening. Accordion shutters offer a lot of functionality and features for a reasonable price. They are popular due to their value and ease of use.
Bahama shutters
Bahama shutters are a type of decorative hurricane shutters. Full-window Bahama shutters are stationary over your window. The angle can be adjusted to adjust for shade and visibility. They provide a tropical/coastal look as well as shade and strong hurricane protection.
Colonial shutters
Colonial shutters are another type of decorative hurricane shutters. These storm shutters look like traditional colonial style shutters, which makes them great for Colonial, Southern, or Traditional style homes. They close over your windows (and/or doors) and lock in place with a storm bar.
Storm panels (aluminum, galvanized, clear polycarbonate)
Storm panels are the most economical and perhaps the most commonly used type of hurricane protection in Florida. These are corrugated panels constructed of either aluminum, metal, or polycarbonate plastic. They are very economical, but you do have to manually install and uninstall the panels for each storm. This is hard work and can also be time consuming.
Ensuring your Shutters are Hurricane Rated and Up to Code
It is important to note that your shutters should meet the requirements of the Florida Building Code and be “hurricane-rated”. This ensures that your hurricane protection was designed and tested to be able to withstand hurricanes.
Learn more in our guide entitled What are Hurricane Shutters.
Impact-Resistant Windows and Doors
When it comes to protecting your home during hurricane season, impact-resistant windows are the cream of the crop. These specially designed and tested windows are built to withstand the force of flying debris, intense winds, and heavy rainfall that often accompany hurricanes.
Unlike hurricane shutters impact windows are a type of passive hurricane protection. That means they protect your house 24/7 without you having to do anything before a storm. The windows themselves are your protection. This makes them the absolute easiest form of storm protection available.
In addition to storm protection these windows also increase energy efficiency and reduce exterior noise. And while they typically cost more than shutters they are a smart long-term investment for homeowner in hurricane-prone areas.
Hurricane Screens
Hurricane screens are a type of hurricane protection that is suitable for wide openings, such as your lanai or patio area. They are not typically installed over individual windows or doors, but rather used to enclose an entire area, such as a lanai.
These retractable screens roll up and down along vertical tracks. They are available in both manual and electric drive versions.
Hurricane screens offer hurricane protection, great looks (they look just like high-end shade screens), shade, and privacy. As a an added bonus, they keep mosquitos, critters and debris out. Lastly, they reduce the wind and rain that gets inside the screened area even during a hurricane.
Storm screens are popular for lanais, pool areas, outdoor spaces, and other wide openings that need hurricane protection.
Learn more about Kevlar Hurricane Screens.
Hurricane Fabric
Hurricane Fabric is another alternative form of storm protection. They offer strong hurricane protection at an economical price while being easier to install and store vs storm panels.
Hurricane fabric typically comes in the form of flexible, fabric panels made of super strong material, typically kevlar or other advanced fabrics. The panels are custom sized to fit each of your home’s openings. They are attached to the exterior of your house with appropriate fasteners.
Hurricane fabric is another type of active hurricane protection. This means you need to install and uninstall the fabric for each storm. However, because they are flexible and lightweight they are easier to install vs storm panels.
FAQs
Q: What is hurricane window protection and why is it important?
A: Hurricane window protection refers to the measures taken to safeguard windows from damage during a hurricane or other severe weather events. This is crucial as windows are often the most vulnerable part of a building during a storm, and can shatter easily, leading to potential risks such as broken glass shards and water damage to the interior of the building.
Hurricane window protection is a crucial safeguard for your home during hurricanes, tropical storms, etc. These protective products, such as impact windows or storm shutters, help prevent damage to your windows and ultimately protect your home from the intense winds and flying debris that hurricanes bring.
Having hurricane window protection in place also reduces the risk of water intrusion and potential structural damage to your property.
By taking proactive steps to protect your windows, you are better prepared to weather the storm and mitigate potential risks to your home.
Q: What are some common types of hurricane window protection options available?
A: Common types of hurricane window protection options include impact windows and doors, hurricane shutters, storm panels, hurricane fabric, and hurricane screens.
Q: How can I determine the most suitable hurricane window protection option for my home?
A: The most suitable window protection from hurricanes option for your home will depend on various factors such as your budget, location (HVHZ or not), type of openings, and personal preferences.
We recommend consulting with a professional hurricane protection company to assess your specific needs and get recommendations based on your individual situation.
Q: Are there any maintenance tips for hurricane protection systems?
A: Yes, it is important to regularly inspect and maintain your hurricane window protection systems to ensure they are in good working condition. For instance, it is important to open and close shutters and screens, even when no storm is present. Maintenance includes testing and checking for any signs of damage or wear, cleaning them regularly, and ensuring that they are properly installed and functioning as intended.
Q: How can I prepare my home for a hurricane before it hits?
A: Being prepared and having a plan before a storm is critically important. You should also take proactive measures before a storm hits. These include things such as having and knowing how to install your hurricane protection, trimming trees and shrubs near your home, removing or tying down loose items in your yard, and reinforcing garage doors.
It is also advisable to create an emergency plan and assemble a hurricane preparedness kit with essential supplies in case of an evacuation or temporary displacement. Knowing where your evacuation shelter is, what evacuation zone you are located in, and having alerts set up are critical to being properly prepared.
Conclusion
In conclusion, hurricane protection is an essential investment for homeowners in hurricane-prone areas. Hurricane protection safeguards your home from the damaging effects of hurricanes, including strong winds, flying debris, and water intrusion. There are various storm protection products available, such as impact windows, hurricane shutters, hurricane screens, and hurricane fabric. Each option has its own advantages and considerations. By understanding your needs and budget, you can choose the most suitable protection for your home and family. Remember, taking proactive measures to prepare your home for a hurricane season is crucial for safeguarding your property and ensuring the safety of your loved ones.
With so many options to choose from, Eurex Shutters can help you find the perfect solution for your needs and budget. Don’t wait until a storm is approaching – contact Eurex Shutters today for a free estimate and ensure your home is prepared for anything.
Or call (239) 369-8600 for immediate service.
