A standard method of protecting windows is to board them up. It is effective but requires a lot of work by homeowners and provides only temporary protection from wind-driven debris.
Plywood also blocks light from entering homes, and it can be difficult to remove after a storm passes. In addition, it detracts from the look of the home.
Window Film
Homeowners can bolster their windows with window security film designed to keep the glass from shattering into dangerous shards. However, it isn’t a substitute for plywood boards or hurricane shutters, which are far more effective in protecting against most types of debris.
It’s also worth noting that window film won’t prevent your windows from getting knocked down by high winds. That’s why it’s crucial to have a plan for protecting your windows that involves boarding them up with plywood or using other methods detailed below.
Another low-cost option is to invest in impact-rated windows. These are designed to withstand hurricane-force winds and projectiles while allowing natural light into your home. While they cost more upfront than other options, they are far more reliable and will last a long time. You can find them in various styles to suit your home’s design. They’re also easier to install than plywood board-ups.
Shutters
Many homeowners believe that duct tape applied in an X pattern over their windows will offer some protection from debris. However, this method will not make your windows stronger or less likely to shatter — it simply holds the glass together. If the window breaks, it could increase the likelihood of shards becoming projectiles within your home.
A better option is installing shutters, which are permanent, cost-effective, and look good on any home. They come in various styles, from Bahama to colonial, and can be made of wood or durable plastic. They’re also energy-efficient.
A new option is hurricane fabric, which installs like shutters but is lighter-weight than other types of protective covers. It can be used with egress windows and is an excellent choice for budget-minded homeowners who want to save money on hurricane window protection. It can also qualify you for a lower homeowner’s insurance premium.
Plywood Covers
Plywood covers are one of the cheapest and most common ways to protect hurricane windows. They also require the most work from homeowners, as they must measure and cut plywood boards to fit each window. They must be installed and secured well before a storm, which can be time-consuming. In addition, they block light from entering the house and can make a home or business look unattractive.
Another downside to using plywood is that leaving windows cracked open allows pressure to build up inside, which can cause them to break. It is counterintuitive to the popular myth that duct tape can help keep windows intact, as it makes them more likely to shatter.
Hurricane panels are made of solid metal or clear polycarbonate and can be placed over windows to protect from debris during a hurricane. They are less expensive than shutters and plywood covers but cost more than impact-resistant glass, which requires professional installation and may qualify for lower homeowners insurance premiums.
Shatter-Resistant Glass
Unlike window film, shutters, and plywood, impact-resistant windows protect the home from natural dangers like debris and human ones, such as criminals.
Impact-resistant windows are the best way to protect your home during hurricane season. They are designed to resist the force of wind and projectiles and look just as good as traditional windows.
Before a storm, remove potential projectiles from your yard, such as outdoor furniture and loose branches. It will reduce the likelihood that they will become airborne and smash into your windows. It will not only save you from costly repairs, but it will also keep your family safe from shattered glass. Plywood covers are a decent option if you cannot afford impact windows.