Hurricane shutters are the least expensive, therefore the most popular solution chosen by homeowners. However, hurricane impact windows and doors are also very popular due to the added benefits of convenience, improved security, better energy efficiency, soundproofing, and their appeal over blinds. The least expensive system is plywood or panels; these offer great protection, but are time consuming to install.
Your considerations: Cost, appearance and convenience. (this one is often underestimated).
First, understand what it is you’re protecting – it’s not just the broken window glass shards that are dangerous – having your roof blown off will really get their attention. During a hurricane, strong wind blowing over your home creates a “lift” effect on your roof. If a window or door is opened during a storm, this creates an additional upward ‘push’ on the roof, thus doubling or tripling the lift effect. This is how the roofs are blown.
Here are the vital points about your options for hurricane window protection for your home.
Myth Buster – Window Film and a little information about Impact Windows:
Window film can reduce the sun’s damaging rays in your home and is promoted as a burglary deterrent. It may also very well reduce the chance of glass shards flying through your home in the event of a hurricane, but do you really think sticking a thin film on your existing windows will keep your roof in the event? from a hurricane? By comparison, impact windows are almost three times thicker than normal window glass. Hurricane windows are made up of two layers of glass, and between these layers of glass is a strong, tear-resistant interlayer (film) that holds the glass together in case it breaks. They are very similar to the windshield of automobiles.
A key factor in the strength of impact windows is how the glass and interlayer are VERY firmly attached to a reinforced frame (both mechanically and through the use of industrial adhesives) so that the impact glass will NOT flake off even under pressure. extreme. The goal is to establish hurricane window protection for all openings (either through the use of hurricane shutters or impact windows, or a combination of both) and to keep the openings sealed so as not to cause a change in pressure inside. from the house thus blowing up the roof. The idea of putting hurricane window film on a regular window with its lightweight frame and expecting it to remotely resemble a Miami-Dade approved impact window is ridiculous. Yes, it would be better than nothing, but your money would be better spent on plywood.
Plywood Shutters ($2 – $4/sqft):
A popular and effective option, installing plywood shutters that fit snugly within the window or door frame is an efficient and affordable option for homeowners. These shutters were effective in even the strongest winds from Hurricane Andrew and are relatively easy to install. If you are going to use this method, the plywood should be 5/8″ to 3/4″ thick, and since it is time consuming to prepare, it should be cut to size before a storm approaches. Us.
Positives:
- Most economical of all hurricane protection systems Strong and can provide excellent protection
Negatives:
- Requires storage, but can be stacked Heavy and unwieldy, hanging may require more than one person Takes longer to install Not a safe option for 2-story homes
Storm Preparedness: 20 – 25 minutes per window (if pre-cut); 5 to 8 hours for an average household
Hurricane shutters with storm panels ($5 – $8 per square foot):
Another popular and effective option, these hurricane shutters are typically corrugated steel or aluminum panels that are attached to the walls around windows and doors. There are several mounting methods that use pre-assembled rails and studs or just studs.
Positives:
- Most economical of ‘permanent’ hurricane shutter systems Strong and can provide excellent protection Can be installed with a handy do-it-yourselfer
Negatives:
- Requires storage, but can be stacked Can be heavy and unwieldy, hanging may require more than one person Time consuming – besides plywood, these take the second most time to set up Have sharp edges – can be dangerous No it is a suitable option for 2 story houses
Storm Preparedness: 15 – 20 minutes per window; 4 to 6 hours for an average household
Hurricane Accordion Shutters ($15 – $18/sqft):
Hurricane Accordion Shutters attach directly to your home window or door opening, folding up when not in use and easily unfolding, accordion-style, when you need to cover and protect the opening during a storm.
Positives:
- Easily deployable by one person when needed. Permanently attached to the side of the window, no storage required. Some are lockable and can be used as dig up burglaries.
Negatives:
- Bulky and unattractive. Seriously consider aesthetics before buying them. More mechanical parts, so it may require more maintenance than other devices.
Storm Preparedness: 30 minutes for a whole house
Colonial and Bahama Hurricane Shutters ($18 – $28/sqft):
These are hurricane shutters with shutters that attach directly to the wall next to or above the windows.
Positives:
- Permanently attached to the side or above the window, they require no storage. Easily deployable by one person when needed. As they are decorative they can beautify the home as well as protect it.
Negatives:
- It cannot be used as door protection, it must be combined with another system. Designs and styles may limit its use.
Storm Preparedness: 30 minutes to an hour for a whole house
Hurricane Roller Shutters ($35 – $55/sqft):
These hurricane shutters sit permanently on the window in a locked box when not in use and roll up, either manually with a crank or electronically with a motor, when you need them.
Positives:
- Permanently attached to the side or above the window, they require no storage. Easily deployable by one person when needed. Since they can be locked, they are an excellent theft deterrent.
Negatives:
- One of the most expensive systems. It requires a backup battery so that they can work during power outages.
Storm Preparedness – Minimal, Easiest of Hurricane Shutter Systems
Impact Windows ($40 – $55+/sqft):
Hurricane impact windows can withstand hurricane debris and completely eliminate the need for hurricane shutters. It costs more to retrofit an existing home, but it’s more cost-effective if the homeowner is considering replacing old windows anyway. This is the greatest added value of hurricane window protection systems, as impact windows also improve energy efficiency, are an excellent burglary deterrent, dampen outside noise and provide hurricane protection for your home windows. home in case of storm. Plus, adding new impact windows is likely to increase the value of your home more than any other hurricane protection system.
Positives:
- Eliminates the need for hurricane shutters Ideal for people with a second home: the house is prepared for hurricanes all the time. Excellent theft deterrent, nearly impossible to break through glass. Added value of soundproofing and energy efficiency compared to normal windows.
Negatives:
- Like roller blinds, this is one of the most expensive systems.
Storm Preparedness: NONE
CONCLUSION:
Keep in mind that if the aesthetics of shutters bother you, but the cost of impact windows is almost out of reach, you can always combine the two. Install impact windows in the front and possibly the sides of your home. Then protect window openings that cannot be seen from the street with blinds.
And don’t underestimate the hassle of installing shutters every time there’s a hurricane warning. I often go out to do impact window estimates on homes that have louvered panels because the homeowner is tired of having to install them.
Finally, if your existing windows need replacement because they are old, I encourage you to upgrade them with impact windows, as the cost difference between non-impact windows with hurricane shutters and impact-only windows is marginal.
Once you’ve narrowed down your options to what type of hurricane window protection system is best for your situation, talk to an expert to help you make your final selection. Depending on which of the above systems best suits you, whether it be hurricane shutters or impact windows, there are many different style options and manufacturers offering different options. Window contractors are your best experts. How to find one? Ideally, get one that is recommended to you by a family member, neighbor, or friend. If they have done a good job for them, this person can provide you with a wealth of knowledge that has been learned over the years. If you must select a contractor you find online, check their references (at least 5), call them, and look up the contractor’s job.