With the increase of hurricanes in the Caribbean area, it's becoming more and more essential to own or at least know how to make hurricane shutters. It seems that too many people rely on the forecasts of these hurricanes and figure that this will give them enough time to get out of the way of these destructive beasts. The truth is that even the finest technology can be caught unawares and so it's better to take some precautions and make sure your home is prepared for the absolute worst.
Hurricane shutters are clearly not going to protect a home that is always at risk such as a mobile home for example. One should also remember that even if the rest of the house is able to withstand the force of a hurricane, some shutters can prevent dangerous objects such as glass windows from breaking and can prevent the wind and rain from billowing around the house causing internal damage. You also don't want to be in a situation whereby you're forced to try and install shutters during a hurricane - not the easiest thing in the world it has to be said!
It's crucial to remember that these panels are not there just to protect the windows themselves. If hurricane force winds were to enter the house, there would be a sudden increase in air pressure. This pressure would immediately begin looking for a release and it's not uncommon for the entire roof of a house to blow off!
So, what are the best kinds of shutters? Well, it's always a good thing if they're affordable. You should also make sure that they offer the greatest protection possible and it helps if they're not too fiddly to install. Even if you're on a limited income please do not do what most people do and cover your windows with low grade plywood and nail them to the frame of your windows. These types of "shutters" are very likely to come apart in a storm and do more damage than good.
There is a new type of hurricane shutter made with a polycarbonate plastic. These types of panels are transparent and some, especially those made with General Electric's LEXAN sheet, have been formed into a corrugated effect to make them even more effective in withstanding hurricanes.
When a hurricnae rears its ugly head, your primary concern must be for the protection of your family. This, combined with the wish to make sure your house is protected from excessive damage means that a good hurricane shutter is essential for peace of mind. If a hurricane is on its way make sure you have the provisions and adequate protection to give your family the safest possible outcome.
Plantation shutters have been around since ancient Greece. They serve a dual purpose as they can help in both weather protection as well as style for your home. Since they are located ion the inside of your home they can be used as a shade and can actually be functional as opposed to the shutters that many of us are accustomed to that simply attach next to windows on a home and do not move. These were the precursor to glass in windows and actually kept out the elements and were opened to allow the flow of air. Shutters were a way of regulating the environment of the home as opposed to simply relying on a door and no other means of air flow.
Much of the architecture of the Southern US is drawn from the works of the ancient Greeks. This is evident not only in the use of shutters but in the use of columns in the structure and design of many of the homes. Much of this is a dual purpose service though. These columns are simply covers for supports throughout the home and the shutters are used for various protections and services. Some of these shutters that are used are known as hurricane shutters and with good reason. Their primary purpose is to protect windows from being blown out during a heavy storm or hurricane. Once again these are based on Greek architecture for both functionality and beauty.
Make sure that when you are selecting shutters for a home repair or improvement project that you consult with someone before doing so. You want to make sure that the shutters that you are going to install will not only meet your needs, but will match, fit and perform as needed. If you are simply purchasing your shutters to make your home more attractive then you will not have as much to worry about, however if you are looking for both performance and function then it will take more consideration and research to find what is the best fit for you and your home. You do not want to get something that is not very strong or sturdy if it is to be hurricane protection. You also do not want to get a shutter that will not look right when installed on or in your home as well. So be wise and consult with someone to make sure you are getting what is best for both you and your home.
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With the current increase in number and intensity of hurricanes and their expanded range, a new focus needs to be placed on preparedness. Obviously, there are certain times when evacuation is the only answer. But, in the mean time, we need to focus on better preparation. Well built structures still need the added protection of hurricane shutters. Without shutters, substantial damage can still be experienced even if the main structure is not affected due to wind breakage and the intrusion of winds and rain. Well designed shutters can result in reduced damages.
There are a number of commercial shutters on the market and various plywood designs. It is important that the public be informed as to which type of shutter is most effective. What are the best shutters? The best kind is those that are affordable, are easy to install an offer the best protection. Which of these properties is most important depends on individual circumstance. Some would prefer an automatic closing or accordion shutter. Those on limited income may have to resort to inexpensive plywood shutters. The most worthless type of protection is in the use of tape over the windows. This does nothing to prevent breakage and could result in larger, more dangerous pieces of flying glass and is very hard to remove after the storm. Some people are using a special impact resistant material with some success. Others are using a new type of impact resistant storm window.
Various commercial storm shutters can be effective but many are untested and have been found to fail in stronger hurricanes. Today all commercial shutters pass rigorous tests before being approved for sale and installation. The shutters range from the most inexpensive, metal corrugated panels, aluminum or steel (heavier but stronger). To electrically operated roll shutters, also effective if properly constructed. Some however can not afford any type of commercial shutter and must resort to using plywood. Many times the plywood can be ripped off in high winds and become flying missiles. Keep in mind you should protect your home with the best hurricane shutters you can afford. After all, your home is your castle and should be protected by whatever means you have available. Whatever type of shutters selected, remember that shutters are only as good as their installation.
Also a shutter cannot fully compensate for a poorly constructed house and or an unprotected garage or other large objects that can impact homes and other structures during a major hurricane. But, with a little preparation beforehand the damage will be minimized. Plywood shutters are an inexpensive alternative to commercial shutters but it should be noted they do not always meet certain building code requirements. You might want to check with your county first before installing them. They do require a good deal of physical labor to install. In many regions people will come together in time of crisis and with a few extra pair of hands, and a little thought in preparing, things will move along at a much higher pace. Whatever type of hurricane shutter you select always use the best you can afford. And, after they are installed be sure to inspect all panels on a regular basis.
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Hurricanes are becoming more and more prevalent and powerful, and with all the destruction that has taken place in the past, insurance companies are starting to refuse insurance to people who live in the areas that most need that insurance.
The only solution is to protect your home as best you can yourself.
Hurricane-Proof Windows
If you live in an area that is frequently hit by hurricanes or windstorms, it is probably the law that you have hurricane-proof windows. However, even these (windows with plastic panes, shatter-proof glass or glass with protective membranes) can use all the help they can get. In a hurricane the strength of your windows is the difference between your house surviving with minimum damage, or with a missing roof. If a window breaks because of battering by strong winds, those winds rush into the house like a freight train, air pressure inside the building increases, and that's what helps cause the roof to be ripped off.
So don't be stingy. Get the best hurricane shutters you can.
As with any other household item on the market, there are quite a lot of choices to choose from. You can purchase removable shutters - but shutters are heavy and you will have to have the strength to remove them and a safe place to store them. Other shutters are affixed permanently to the house. Even though these shutters are a necessity, there is no reason why they cannot also look attractive until they have to be put to use.
Save time and money by surfing around the internet and comparing prices and features. Then visit your local home improvement and home decor stores and discussing your needs with the people there, so you can make an informed decision.
Hurricane Depot carries hurricane storm panels for your windows, but also braces for your garage door. Don't neglect that important part of your home, by the way!
Storm Shutters is another online company that carries hurricane shutters, as well as other kinds of storm shutters for those of you who live in areas subject to tornadoes or violent windstorms.
Aluminum or steel too heavy? A company called Wayne Dalton provides Fabric-Shield storm panels! There are PVC coated woven fabric panels - tested to block rain, wind, and storm-driven projectiles.
1. Hurricane Storm Panels
These panels are the most inexpensive system you can purchase. The panels are made of aluminum or steel, and are removable for easy storage. (If you are going to store them, however, make sure that you are strong enough to put them back on their tracks should you need to. And make sure that all the hardware you need to replace the panels, stays with them.)
2. Roll Down Hurricane Shutter
Roll down shutters are attached to the top of your window, and are lowered through the use of an electric motor. Should your power go out, they can also be lowered by the use of a hand crank. These shutters will protect you not only from a hurricanes, but from home intruders as well. However, because they are automatic, they are expensive.
3. Accordion-Type Hurricane Shutter
Accordion shutters, which as the name implies fold and unfold like an accordion, are also relatively inexpensive, but there are maintenance issues you need to be aware of. It is very important that the glide wheels on which they roll be well-maintained, and the last thing you want to do is find out that you can't shut them when you really, really need to.
These types of shutters are used to enclose your entire porch or veranda, and would not be used for single windows.
4. Bahama-style Hurricane Shutter
The Bahama-style shutter is actually an awning. It's a single-piece shutter attached above the window. It only opens a little way, which allows in the air but not a lot of sunlight. (Which can be a good thing if you want to protect your furniture and paintings from fading.). During a storm you lower the shutter completely and lock it down.
5. Colonial Hurricane Shutter
Colonial hurricane shutters always come in pairs. These are the most decorative of shutters, made of aluminum or steel. (Don't buy any that use styrofoam filler or sheet metal parts. These would be too weak to stand up to a real storm..
Every part of the world has its share of natural disasters. Flooding, earthquakes, monsoons and tornadoes -- most every region occasionally suffers some unpleasant or dangerous weather. Living near the Gulf of Mexico, hurricanes are the most common threat. As others have summer, winter, spring, and fall, the Gulf has an additional season: hurricane season. Though residents get a bit used to the near-constant warnings about tropical storms and tropical depressions nearing hurricane strength, a laissez faire attitude is dangerous.
Even a well-built brick home is vulnerable in the face of a strong hurricane. While the structure might be able to withstand high winds, the windows are more vulnerable. Certain precautions need to be taken.
Some people simply tape up their windows. This is not very effective and can actually be more dangerous. In the event that the hurricane does break the windows, you now have large sections of sharp glass taped together and flying through the air. Other people use plywood to board up their windows. This is much more effective than tape and it is relatively inexpensive. The problem with plywood covers is that they must be installed before each occurrence and taken down after the threat has passed. This method becomes cumbersome and time-consuming. There is also the threat of the plywood being ripped off the windows in the face of high winds.
The preferred method, if finances allow, is the use of hurricane shutters. These shutters are installed on the outside of your home, next to the windows. They are hinged, so they can be closed when needed. When the danger of hurricanes or hurricane-strength winds is present, simply close the shutters. Though no shutter is guaranteed against all damages, it should be greatly reduced.
Hurricane shutters are available in a variety of styles with a variety of price ranges. The easiest and most expensive are those with an automatic closing device. For a less expensive, but still effective shutter, consider a metal, steel or aluminum shutter.
Shutters are always beautiful. That beauty is enhanced, however, when they can actually offer protection and safety. That combination is found in hurricane shutters.
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After an extremely busy Hurricane Season 2005, and all the devastation that resulted, protecting your home from hurricanes has never been more paramount. Over the years, hurricane shutters have advanced tremendously in their design and practicality. The cost for shutters has remained fairly consistent despite the rising cost of aluminum in the world markets. After Katrina, Wilma, and Rita roared through the Gulf region, the demand for hurricane protection products has skyrocketed. There are basically five different forms of hurricane protection products: Storm Panels, Accordion Shutters, Roll-Down Shutters, Hurricane Tint Window Film, and Impact-Resistant Glass.
Removable Storm Panels provide the most cost-effective protection against the violent ravages of Hurricanes and Tropical Storms. Their rock-solid durability and easy set-up makes Storm Panels an absolute necessity anywhere storms and hurricanes threaten the safety of your property. .050" and .063" aluminum storm panels, as well as our 20-gauge galvanized steel panels, have been engineered to meet the most stringent wind codes in the country and have been reviewed and accepted by the Miami-Dade County product control division. These panels are designed to slip into an upper header track and fasten to a lower track with washer-based wing nuts. The tracks are available in a white or bronze finish. The panels can be removed from the tracks and can be easily stored in your garage or shed. Panels can also be attached directly to the wall without tracks by concrete anchor and stainless steel screws.
If you looking for the best combination of affordability, protection, and easy-of-use, Accordion Shutters are the right solution for your home or business. They offer durable life-time protection and are proven to increase the market value of your home or business. Whether you needs are residential or commercial, custom-designed and professionally installed shutter systems will keep you protected for years to come. Accordion Shutters are not only perfect for windows and doors, but also for securing patios, balconies, terraces, and storefronts, which have large expanses. They are attractive and easy to operate, and can be installed in any length because they do not require reinforcement with vertical braces or supports. Accordions feature specially engineered, heavy-duty nylon wheels, which enable our shutters to open and close with ease. Accordion Shutters are constructed of heavy-gauge, extruded aluminum panels. They lock securely for maximum protection against storms, high-winds, and forcible entry. Accordion shutters have been engineered to meet the most stringent wind codes in the country and have been reviewed and accepted by the Miami-Dade County product control division.
Roll Down shutters provide the ultimate in security and storm protection for your home or business. Roll-down shutter systems come with a smooth, manual crank or can be upgraded to the fully synchronized electric motor drive for maintenance-free operation. Roll-down shutters offer an elegant design solution with minimal visual impact. Rolling shutters are constructed of the finest grade of aluminum for maximum impact resistance and durability. Specially designed roll-down shutters provide maximum strength and insulation from sun, storm, heat, noise, and weather extremes. The reinforced track system provides strength and maximum shutter width. They are specially designed and engineered to blend with and compliment your home or business. Our roll-down shutters add substantial value to your home or business and pay for themselves through more efficient heating and cooling of your rooms. Roll-down shutters have been engineered to meet the most stringent wind codes in the country and have been reviewed and accepted by the Miami-Dade County product control division.
If you are evaluating replacement windows for your home or business or in the design stage of a new construction project, impact windows are your perfect solution to provide effortless hurricane protection. They come in a wide-variety of options in fame colors, glazing, and tint. You can customize your windows to compliment your existing architecture. These windows combine heavy-duty aluminum frames with impact resistant glass. A special silicone glazing process keeps the glass from shattering. Although the glass may crack on impact the inner-layer keeps the glass intact preventing debris from entering your home or business. Windows and doors with aluminum frames have Miami-Dade Notice of Acceptance, qualifying them for use in Miami-Dade and Broward Counties. This remarkable product also provides protection to your draperies, rugs, and furniture from the sun's damaging UV rays. Impact resistance glass reduces outside sound and traffic noise enhancing the serenity of your home. The same impact resistant glass and heavy-duty construction that keeps flying objects out of your home during a hurricane, also provides deterrence to thieves and vandals.
Whether your are opt for storm panels, accordions, impact glass, roll-downs or hurricane film, you are sure to make your home a more safe and secure dwelling with hurricane shutters. They will protect your home for years to come and will add value to your home.
Hurricane Shutters are something very serious these days, if you read the news recently you probably know that the world climate is changing, as a result we are expecting more tropical storms in our region in the next few years, and the forecast for the hurricane shutters is that its going to be a much needed tool to protect your home.
A hurricane shutter is most common in the Southern states that often see bad weather a couple of months during the year. If you do not have these, you will risk a lot of damage to your house. Today more and more people are looking into buying hurricane shutters as a result of the last year storms and because some insurance companies has started recommending the use of hurricane shutters.
Hurricane or “storm panel” shutters are often constructed out of a solid steel or aluminum frame and provide protection superior to that of Bahamas, Colonial, wooden, or vinyl shutters. This shutter is also considerably less expensive than decorative shutters. You should think about the exterior of your house because those shutters are considerably less attractive–and you may want to put them in storage at the end of the hurricane season.
The reason that these shutters look less attractive should not deter you from considering them for protection of your home, although these hurricane shutters do not look so nice they can protect your windows, balcony, or storefront from bad weather. During a storm, these areas may be pounded with heavy rain, hail, and wind. If you have a hurricane shutter in place, you do not have to worry about a lot of damage. The great thing about the hurricane shutters is that they also give you some peace of mind while a storm is raging outside. The hurricane shutters can also help to protect the people inside of your house, and help to protect a little more then material positions. A hurricane shutter will go a long way in ensuring that your windows do not get busted out by bad weather.
Most hurricane shutters are designed for the use and maintenance of one person up and down operation. One person can operate the hurricane shutters and do it relatively fast so that the chances that you will not be prepared when a storm is on its way it relatively low. A great advantage if a storm sneaks up on you by surprise. This way, all you have to do is pull this shutter down and lock it into position; a simple five second job. While everyone else is boarding up their windows in the rain, you will be inside your house, protected from the elements.
The advice of most hurricane shutters companies is to set them up when the hurricane season starts and to take them off for the rest of the year, thus avoiding their looks and enjoying the protection the shutters offer. This is not a joke, and a lot of people use this advice, it makes sense that you want to keep your property protected when its hurricane season and once the danger is off to return to your “normal” look.
Hurricane Shutters are a way to protect your property, learn more about Hurricane Shutters, the Shutters site for http://www.ZupaTips.com
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Hurricanes come every year. Though not all of these are severe like Andrews or Katrina, these can still do some damage if there is no protection for the home. This is the reason that hurricane shutters have been developed since the most vulnerable sections of the house are the windows that may carry debris when something hits it hard.
There are many types of hurricane shutters to choose from. Those who don’t want the inexpensive version and want one that is ideal for the budget should try the Accordion hurricane shutter.
The Accordion hurricane shutter is available in one or two-piece models. It folds and unfolds just like the musical instrument from where it got the name. This type of shutter is fixed onto the window. It is possible to get one that has a lock and key similar to those used by some stores.
There is a lot of praise for the Accordion hurricane shutter. This is mainly because it gives the homeowner the protection it needs when the storm comes.
Its only drawback perhaps is that this looks bulky from the outside and requires a lot of maintenance. Oil has to be placed on the glide wheels regularly for this to open and close properly.
Can the Accordion hurricane shutter do well for any home? The answer is no. This is due to the size of the thing, which will make the house look odd if the windows are quite small.
Since each house is different, those who want to have this for the home should call on a contractor to get the proper measurements for the windows. Most will charge from $16 to $20 per square foot that doesn’t include the labor costs.
After getting the price quote from several specialists, your chosen company can begin to construct the shutters for you. It will probably take two weeks or more to have this prepared and then delivered to the home.
It is advisable to have the hurricane shutters ready before the hurricane season sets in. The prices for these models go up during the peak months because of the demand. It is obviously better then to get this at the lower price than having to shell out more for the same thing.
The homeowner should be aware that even if the hurricane shutters in the house are made of wood, vinyl or aluminum, these will not provide 100% protection for the home. A category five hurricane for example can lift a car or uproot a tree that can cause severe damage to the window and the surrounding walls when it hits hard. This is even if that hurricane shutter costs $10,000.
If the price of the accordion hurricane shutter is not in the homeowner’s budget, it's maybe time to select from the other choices. There's the Storm Panel, Bahamas, Roll Down and the hurricane glass.
Some people use another type of hurricane shutter and have this installed inside the home. This serves as a second line of defense at the same time making the room feel relaxed.
Hurricane shutters are not perfect but until a new line of home protection is invented it's advisable to smother your home in them if you're in one of the aforementioned "climates". At least, the numbers of people who choose to board up have learned the lessons in the past are now using something better to reduce the costs for the repairs.
Matthew runs a site dedicated to the latest news and developments in Hurricane Shutters and accordion hurricane shutters.
Labels: accordion, beauty, hurricane, shutter 1 comments
In places where storms are frequent, hurricane shutters are essential. These devices work to protect your homes. Hurricane shutters are usually placed on windows, especially in a house that is not built with hurricane proof glass.
To help you decide which hurricane shutter is best for your house, let's discuss the different hurricane shutters available on the market. These are:
1. Storm Panel Hurricane Shutter. These are shutters usually made of aluminum or steel. The storm panel shutter type is attached to the walls and doors. It is placed around it and is bolted in. Usually, they come in corrugated style, with each piece overlapping the other for optimum strength.
Usually storm panel shutters come with the houses that are up for sale. And if they do, check every piece properly so you can do the proper adjustment to it. If you find out too late that the panels are too heavy to mount by yourself or there are several pieces missing, the results will not be pleasant.
This is also the cheapest type of hurricane shutters for sale. It is strong enough to provide the proper protection for windows and doors. But since it is removable, it needs a storage area. It may also have sharp edges making it hard to install.
2. Roll Down Hurricane Shutter. This type of shutter is attached just above the window. When in use, you roll it down. Else, you can put it up. It acts just like a metal horizontal blind, only better. It can be installed either with automatic or manual operation.
Roll down shutters will not only protect your house from hurricanes, but from burglary and theft as well. But unfortunately, these are the most expensive type of hurricane shutter, especially if you wanted the automatic one. This type needs backup batteries so they can function even if the power is out.
3. Accordion-Type Hurricane Shutter. This type of shutter can come either in a two-piece or a one-piece deal. It folds and unfolds just like an accordion. Like the roll down, it is fixed in the window. Some models provide the ability to be locked with a key.
Although these shutters are highly functional, it may look hulking outside and does not go well with some of the houses. And because its function relies greatly on the glide wheels, without proper maintenance, it can be stuck and break easily than the other types.
4. Bahama-style Hurricane Shutter. This is a single-piece shutter attached above the windows. It is lowered during the storm and is raised after. Aside from protection, it adds privacy and shade to your homes.
But because of their slanting position, it can block some light from entering the house. Low-end Bahama hurricane shutters are light and weak. If left opened during a storm, it will surely be broken by the strong wind.
5. Colonial Hurricane Shutter. Unlike the other types, this one always comes in pairs. It is attached vertically on the sides of the window and is folded together to protect it. These types can be highly decorative. It can add accent to your windows, especially if you have a colonial type of house.
Although it looks good on a window, it cannot be used on a door. Finding a match for it for your door maybe a hard task. It may also require a storm bar or a center rod so that it can be locked in place.
These are the most common types of hurricane shutters. Choose one style today and protect your homes and your families from uncontrollable natural disasters like storms, hurricanes, and typhoons.
Matthew runs a site dedicated to the latest news and developments in Hurricane Shutters and wood shutters
I can think of many reasons for someone to buy a hurricane shutter; some of them obvious, some of them not so much. Hurricane shutters are most commonly found in southern states that often see hurricanes or bad weather a couple months out of the year. Without hurricane shutters, you are risking a lot of damage to your home or business.
Hurricane or "storm pane" shutters are usually constructed out of steel or aluminum and provide superior protection to that of Bahamas, Colonial, wooden, or vinyl shutters. Hurricane shutters are created with one intention in mind, to protect your home or business from dangerous weather. For this reason, hurricane shutters can be found at a much more affordable price than other styles of shutters. Their cost does come with a drawback; hurricane shutters are not very attractive. For this reason, you may consider putting them in storage after the hurricane season.
Despite their clunky, ugly frame, hurricane shutters can protect your windows, balcony, or storefront from the worst of weather. During a storm, these areas may be pounded with heavy rain, hail, and wind. Having hurricane shutters will help to keep your mind at peace, during any weather.
During hurricane season, thousands of people report injures from broken glass. Hurricane shutters can also help protect the individuals in your home from wind or hail busting the glass.
Hurricane shutters are designed for easy one person up and down manipulation. If a storm sneaks up on you by surprise, these shutters are a great advantage. Simply pull the shutter down and, your safe from whatever mother nature throws at you. While everyone else is shuffling to get wood for boarding up their windows, you will be safe and secure inside.
While purchasing ugly, heavy shutters for only one season may seem ridiculous, it isn't if you consider the thousands of dollars you will save in property damages, or even medical bills!
Hurricane shutters are essential for anyone living in areas prone to bad weather.
For more information about hurricane shutters and information to help you find the the perfect shutters for your home, visit my shutters website.
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