Nobody wants to see their windows shattered by flying debris during a hurricane or severe storm. The good news is that there are ways to prepare your home or business for such an event before it happens. Many people believe the common myth is that you should open your windows during a storm to equalize pressure, but this won’t help and could worsen things.
Leave Some Windows Open
A common urban myth suggests leaving windows open during a hurricane to let pressure equalize. It is a bad idea and will make your windows more likely to shatter. Installing storm shutters is a good option for protecting your windows from flying debris and hurricane-force winds, but these must be more aesthetically pleasing. Plus, they have to be installed ahead of time, and you have to keep track of the storm forecast to know when to take them down before a hurricane hits. The best way to protect your windows during a hurricane in Florida is by upgrading them to impact-rated windows. Florida windows and doors are designed to withstand high pressure and projectiles and are available in various styles to match any home.
Check the Seals
Nobody wants to see their windows shattered by debris sent airborne during a hurricane. You may reduce the risk by eliminating any possible missiles near your home. It includes bringing outdoor furniture inside, trimming trees, and clearing up yard decor and loose branches. It’s also important to check the seals on your doors and windows. A small leak during a hurricane can lead to serious damage. Adding caulk or minimal-expanding foam to any cracks and gaps will help minimize the damage caused by these leaks. Unlike plywood, impact-rated glass won’t detract from your home’s aesthetic and is a permanent solution to protecting your windows. Contact a window professional to get more information on this option. The benefits of impact-rated windows include withstanding high winds and pressure while allowing natural light into your home.
Repair Any Damage
As a hurricane approaches, many people begin to board their windows in preparation. It is a good idea, and it helps to reduce damage in the event of a storm. It is also important to take photographs of any pre-storm damage for your insurance claim. It would help if you also considered picking up heavier objects in the yard that could blow around during a storm, such as lawn furniture or sheds. It will also help prevent your windows from being shattered by debris flying in the wind. Installing storm shutters is another way to prepare your windows for a hurricane. These are permanent additions to your home and are a great option that will minimize damage fairly cheaply. The only downside is that they may affect your home’s curb appeal.
Reinforce Your Doors and Windows
When hurricanes come through, they can cause much damage to homes, just like the Tampa Hurricane Ian damage that left profound physical wreckage to several infrastructures. Broken windows, flooding, and structural damage are just a few risks that can go with them. That is why it’s so important to take the time to prepare your doors and windows for a storm. The simplest way to do this is to make sure they’re hurricane-proof. Impact-rated windows and doors are required in many Florida coastal regions, but they can also be used throughout the country to help protect your home. The key is to choose and install them correctly. It is why it’s important to work with a certified and licensed window and door specialist. They will be able to provide you with state-of-the-art products and installation processes.
Board Up Your Windows
Unless your house is equipped with hurricane-rated windows, boarding up your windows during a storm is a must. The good news is that you can get a lot of protection for your home with plywood sheets. This material is inexpensive, easily accessible (if you don’t wait until the last minute), and has 30 percent more impact strength than oriented strand board. Duct tape isn’t a great solution for protecting your windows, but you can buy window films to help your glass hold together rather than shatter if it breaks. The best option, though, is to install hurricane shutters. These are permanent fixtures that can withstand strong winds, high levels of pressure, and projectiles. They’re a bit more expensive than traditional windows but are worth the investment to keep your family and possessions safe.
