Impact Windows vs Hurricane Shutters
Impact Windows vs Hurricane Shutters
The residents of Coastal Florida are aware of the devastating effects tropical storms and hurricanes have on their homes. To mitigate the risk of damages caused by hurricanes securing windows and doors are of utmost importance. To accomplish that, there are a few options available including hurricane-resistant windows and shutters. The hurricane shutters are either in the form of panels or accordion hurricane shutters. The Hurricane panels are divided into different categories depending on the materials used in manufacturing them. Generally, the concept behind the impact-resistant windows is the same among different manufacturers.
Hurricane Shutters
Hurricane shutters are a cost-effective solution to combat the perils of hurricanes. The cost is perhaps the only advantage of choosing hurricane shutters over impact windows. Consequently, there are many disadvantages in having shutters when compared to impact windows:
Disadvantages of Hurricane Shutters
Installation of Hurricane Shutters – Hurricane shutters need to be installed anytime there is danger approaching a hurricane in the area. The hurricane shutters block all windows and keep the house in darkness. The impact-resistant windows, on the other hand, are installed once and will not block the windows
Storage of Hurricane Shutters - The homeowners have to take down and store the storm shutters as soon the threat of a hurricane is over. Keeping hurricane shutters up after the storm is against codes in many municipalities in Florida
Noise Reduction - Hurricane resistant windows offer up to 70% noise reduction compared to hurricane shutters that cannot reduce sound
The Appearance of Hurricane Shutters - Hurricane shutters are very unappealing when installed. On the other hand, impact windows offer a modern look to the house
The hurricane shutters offer great protection if installing the impact-resistant windows is not in your budget. Without protection, homeowners are risking property and bodily damage if their windows and doors are left unprotected from the hurricane’s force.
Installing Plywood or Taping Windows During Hurricanes
Taping the windows has been proven to be ineffective when debris impacts them with hurricane winds. Avoid taping your windows and taking precious time away from properly preparing for the storm.
Although installing plywood on windows is not as effective as shutters or impact windows it is better than not having any protection. It is important to secure the plywood sheets correctly. The force of the hurricane’s wind is very capable of lifting the plywood from windows. This will not only defeat the purpose of installing the boards but it will also makes them a danger when they become projectiles. Use plywood sheets only as a worst-case scenario and plan for a better solution after the storm is over.
