Hurricanes are powerful storms characterized by high winds, heavy rain, and the potential to cause significant damage to homes. During a hurricane, one of the most vulnerable parts of your house is the windows, which can be shattered by flying debris or high-pressure winds. Broken windows can lead to water infiltration and structural damage, but you can minimize risks to your house with these six ways to protect your windows in a hurricane.

Install Rolling Shutters

Reinforcing your windows is a crucial step in hurricane preparedness, as it significantly reduces the likelihood of breakage during severe weather events. Shattered windows can expose your home to the elements, leading to increased repair expenses. Supporting the windows also helps keep household members safe by minimizing the hazards that arise from shattered glass and wind-driven debris. Rolling security shutters are an ideal solution that provides long-term protection against hurricanes and other inclement weather. These shutters are constructed from durable materials, such as aluminum, and can easily be lowered or raised along tracks installed above each window or integrated into the exterior walls for a seamless look.

Here are some ways in which closed rolling shutters protect homes from hurricanes:

• Physical barrier: Rolling shutters form a sturdy physical barrier over windows, shielding them from high winds and flying debris during hurricanes.
• Impact resistance: They are designed to withstand impact, preventing windows from shattering and maintaining the structural integrity of the house.
• Water ingress prevention: Rolling shutters help seal windows tightly, reducing the chances of water infiltration that can lead to interior damage.
• Wind load distribution: By distributing wind loads effectively, rolling shutters lessen the pressure on windows, reducing the risk of breakage.
• Security enhancement: In addition to storm protection, rolling shutters enhance the security of the house by adding another layer of defense against intruders.

Choosing the Right Shutters

A rolling security shutter specialist can assist you in choosing the right shutters by evaluating the size and layout of your home’s windows, the level of desired protection, and any budget constraints. For hurricane protection, the specialist will consider the shutters’ impact resistance, durability under extreme weather conditions, and compliance with local building codes. They will also recommend suitable manual or motorized options based on your preferences for convenience and functionality during emergencies.

Reinforce Windows With Plywood

While plywood can provide adequate protection for windows during hurricanes, it is not the most robust solution for those living in hurricane-prone areas. Plywood serves as a quick solution for window reinforcement, especially if you don’t have access to more robust materials like storm shutters. To properly use plywood, select sheets that are at least 5/8-inch thick and cut them to fit each window snugly. Secure the plywood with screws or bolts into the window frame. After the storm, remove the plywood to let in natural light, ventilate the house, and prevent moisture buildup that can lead to mold growth.

Seal Gaps and Cracks Around Windows

Water infiltration happens when unwanted water enters a building, often through gaps or cracks in windows, doors, or walls. During a hurricane, strong winds can drive rainwater against the exterior of a home, and if there are gaps or cracks around windows, this pressurized water can seep into the interior. Water infiltration can lead to mold growth, water damage, and structural issues, such as a weakened building foundation and rotting wooden structures.

Maintaining Windows

When checking your home’s windows to prevent water infiltration, inspect the condition of the seals, caulking, and weather stripping to ensure they are intact and without gaps. Additionally, examine the window frames for any signs of decay, damage, or gaps that could potentially allow water to seep in during heavy rain or hurricanes.

To seal gaps and cracks, start by cleaning the area thoroughly to ensure proper adhesion of sealant. Next, apply a high-quality silicone or caulk sealant to fill in the gaps and create a tight seal. Consider using weather stripping or foam tape for areas that require extra insulation, like the space between the window frame and the wall.

Install Impact-Resistant Windows

Installing impact-resistant windows, also called hurricane windows, is a proactive approach to safeguarding your home against the destructive forces of hurricanes. These windows typically consist of two layers of tempered glass, laminated with a resilient polymer interlayer that absorbs energy and prevents shattering. These windows also have reinforced frames and robust seals that add stability and enhance their resistance to high winds, flying debris, and water infiltration. Unfortunately, these windows are highly prone to scratches, which can reduce visibility over time and lead to frequent maintenance or replacement. While these windows are strong, repeated impacts or exposure to environmental factors like heat and cold can reduce that resistance over time.

Trim Trees and Secure Loose Items

One often overlooked aspect of hurricane preparedness is the importance of trimming trees and removing debris from around your property. Overhanging branches and loose items can become dangerous projectiles during high winds, posing a significant threat to your home’s windows. Regularly maintaining your landscape can help mitigate this risk; prune trees near your home and remove dead or weak branches.

Loose items on your patio or porch can also become projectiles. Secure patio furniture, garden tools, and decorations to prevent them from becoming airborne during a storm. Taking these precautions can significantly reduce the likelihood of window damage from flying debris.

Install Safety and Security Window Film

Safety and security window film is not rated for hurricane protection, but it can provide an extra layer of security. It’s important to note that window film should not be considered an alternative to security shutters but rather a complementary measure. If the window breaks, the film will work to hold the shattered glass together. This reduces the risk of injury from glass fragments and maintains a level of protection, stopping wind and rain from entering the building.

Installing window film yourself can be cost-effective and convenient. However, it requires careful attention to detail and the proper technique to ensure a smooth, bubble-free finish, which can be challenging for beginners. Proper installation involves thoroughly cleaning the windows, precisely applying the film to ensure a seamless finish, and utilizing techniques to eliminate bubbles or imperfections.

When it comes to hurricane protection, temporary measures like reinforcing the windows with plywood offer a fast defense. Alternatively, robust safeguards include installing rolling security shutters and impact-resistant windows, depending on the level of protection you require and the budget you have. Sealing cracks and windows, installing a security window film, and maintaining your property’s landscaping are other measures that can protect your home’s windows from hurricane damage. Use these tips to preserve your home’s structural integrity during severe weather.