If you live on the coast then you have probably lived through more than one hurricane. It is never a bad idea to remember how to be safe when living in a hurricane prone region. Some hurricanes are really like big storms while others can be very dangerous happenings. Follow these tips to keep readiness and hurricane preparation and storm protection in the forefront of your mind.
Train the Family
You can never be overly prepared when it comes to your family’s safety, so make sure everyone is in on a plan. You should all know what each other’s roles are in hurricane safety. You can also have a spot to meet in other than your home. If you have hurricane proof windows you may need to close the shutters, so someone should be responsible for that. You may want to teach the kids on to close hurricane windows as extra training for them.
Hurricane Emergency Kit
During a hurricane all you can do is weather the storm, but afterwards you might need to have a kit to help you out. You should make a box of everything you may need such as first aid kit, clean water, food, flashlight and batteries, a portable radio, medications, and candles. You will need these things if you loose power or water.
Your Neighborhood
You should know how to escape from your town or city in the event of a major hurricane. There are some storm that you should not stay around for and knowing how to get out fast will save you time. You should always take evacuation orders from the local government very seriously and make sure to leave. It may seem overly cautious, but it’s better safe than sorry.
Supplies
Make sure that you have enough food and water in your house before a hurricane. It is better to store some so you don’t need to rush out and fight the crowds before the storm hits. You should always have enough medication on hand so that anyone in your family with medical needs won’t run out. Fill up your tub before the storm hits so you have extra water in case it goes out.
Around Your Home
Clean up around your property for any loose sticks and have your trees trimmed regularly. This will keep your home safer from flying tree limbs and other debris. Board up your windows too.
Buy Gas
You should always keep your gas tank near full if you live in a storm prone region during hurricane season. You never know when you might have to flee with your family and you don’t want to risk running out of gas on the road or fighting mobs of people at the gas station.
Take Care Of Your Pets
You might be afraid to leave your pets at home during a storm. You do need to think of your safety first, but if you can try to take them in the car with you. Many hotels and motels will let your pets stay with you in the room.
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People who live in coastal communities are nearly always slap bang in the direct path of hurricanes. Residents are required to evacuate immediately and seek shelter in higher ground until the storm passes.
When the weatherman reports the direction of the hurricane and it's heading your way, the only thing any homeowner can do is board up the home. This is usually done using wood but there is a better way now to protect the house.
The best way to protect your home is by using hurricane shutters. These are strong enough to protect the windows and even the doors from gale force winds that could be carrying flying debris.
There are different types of hurricane shutters available in the market. There are the colonial, Bahamas, accordion and roll down versions. These are all made from different types of material such as metal or wood.
The cheapest among all of these is the vinyl version. Available in your local DIY stores, the only drawback with these kinds of shutters is the longevity when compared to other types.
Those who want wood should try Cedar since it has a natural oil that termites and other bugs hate as well as preventing moisture penetration.
Of course, there is always aluminum that is rust resistant. It doesn't look like much from the outside but this will perform its job when the storm rears its ugly head.
The type of shutter to be chosen will really depend on the severity of previous hurricanes. The person can contact a representative from one of these companies for an ocular inspection and measurements to be made to be able to design the right one for the home.
Contractors will usually charge per foot so you should probably look around and compare the rates before deciding on the one to get.
Hurricane shutters are easy to install. They're usually screwed onto the top of the wall so the shutter can be pulled down. This is much better than boarding up the home because the people who live there can stay inside when waiting for an order about whether to evacuate or not.
In fact, those who know some basic carpentry skills can save some money by buying the materials and building this at home.
It's always a good idea to get some friends or some members of the family to help to put the hurricane shutter into position given the weight of this thing once it is fully assembled.
Generally, hurricane shutters are placed outside of the home. Some people have even installed a second one inside that is more decorative adding a slightly bizarre but nevertheless idiosyncratic touch to the home.
When the hurricane has passed, the exterior covering can be removed and stored in the garage. This should be kept in a secure and safe place so it can be brought out again to protect the home against the next one, especially since more than 10 of these darn hurricanes come every year.
Hurricane shutters don't look that nice from the outside however this should not deter the person from getting one for the home. It may not protect the home entirely when the storm comes but at least this can reduce the cost of repairs as insurance companies are unwilling to cough up!
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Lately Mother Nature has been pummeling the earth with some devastating hurricanes? If you happen to live in one of the cities that are prone to these hurricanes, then you’ll want to look for ways to protect your home.
Here’s where hurricane shutters come into play. Adding hurricane shutters is a very simple do it yourself job that nearly anyone can tackle. You may not feel that you’re the person to do this job if you’re not confident in your home building handiness, but if you’ll keep reading you may be more committed to protecting your windows for your homes safety.
To begin with, hurricane shutters actually protect the glass in your windows from damage caused by flying debris.
Because of their vulnerability, your doors and windows are the most likely to get damaged during a hurricane. The reason for this is that they’re manufactured in a way that offers zero protection against this flying debris.
The huge gusts of winds from a hurricane can easily destroy your windows and doors. As well, just imagine a piece of debris flying though the window or door – for instance a piece of scrap metal or tree – this can cause a barrage of problems.
When this occurs, as the glass breaks, your home then becomes pressurized from the wind that is now blowing in. The problem has now created a new danger. The internal pressure of your home now starts to rise. The wind outside is now going to rush over the top of your home because of this internal pressure.
Now the pressure inside of your home will begin to rise, and the outside wind will mix together and create suction. This immense suction rips the roof off of your home. Because of the damage to the roof, the house becomes very susceptible to new structural damage.
If this doesn’t ignite a fuel in your soul to go out and get storm windows, I really don’t know what will? With proper protection, you’ll
increase the chance of your home surviving a hurricane.
Protecting your windows with storm windows – or hurricane shutters – ensures you and your families safety from hurricanes. Hopefully, you’ll use this new knowledge and include them in your current and future home building projects.
Linden Walhard's news can be encountered on a large number of web sites linked to storm windows. Recording his experience in detailed publications, the writer proofed his knowledge on news relating to hurricane shutters and storm windows.
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If you live in an area which suffers from hurricanes every now and again, life can be pretty eventful and damage to your home is always a risk. However, there are ways in which you can hurricane proof your home and one of those ways includes purchasing and installing hurricane vinyl shutters.
What Are Hurricane Vinyl Shutters and How Can They Help?
Hurricane vinyl shutters are an excellent way of adding a little extra protection to your home. Vinyl shutters are actually cheaper than wooden shutters and they also last a lot longer too. The fact that they are stronger than wooden shutters means that they are definitely more suited to hurricane proof the home than wooden shutters are.
They help by protecting the wall around them and by mainly protecting the glass in your windows. So, when a hurricane does hit you will not have to worry about any damage to the windows and you can feel a lot safer in your home.
One of the great things about hurricane vinyl shutters is that they come in a variety of different styles in order to suit your individual taste and the style of your home. You can find them online and generally online is one of the best places to look for hurricane shutters as there will be literally hundreds of designs to choose from. Of course you can also find them local to you too but there may not be quite as much choice to choose from.
To find the perfect ones to suit your home, you need to first take in the theme of the home from the outside. Does it have a modern look or does it have a more contemporary one? Of course the main thing that you need to think about is that the shutters are designed to protect your home so generally it does not matter what they look like, just as long as they work.
The best thing about hurricane vinyl shutters is that they are not overly expensive. So, you can protect your home in an affordable way and they will also last for years. What more could you want for you and your home?
Overall it is better to measure the shutters before you purchase them otherwise you will be wasting money. So, measure all of the windows and write down the measurements then you will not have a problem when it comes to purchasing them. Shop around as much as possible to ensure that you get the cheapest prices for you and also ensure that you get them fitted properly too, that way they will be as secure as they can be.
Andrew Caxton is a journalist who has written more articles and newsletters on this subject for http://www.home-decorating-reviews.com A website with tips on vinyl shutters, amongst many related topics.
Hurricane windows offer your family protection from a potentially dangerous situation if a high-grade hurricane ever comes to your town. They were developed after the 1992 Hurricane Andrew, which devastated South Florida. You can protect your home from debris and winds with hurricane windows. If you want the best in storm protection then you should upgrade to hurricane proof windows.
Reasons To Buy Hurricane Windows
Protecting your house from water damage or wind damage during a major storm is one of the best reasons to upgrade to hurricane windows, but there are other reasons as well. Broken windows cause major damage in and of themselves and when flying debris breaks a window, which can cause high-pressure air to come inside your house. This high-pressure air can then blow out more windows or even lift off your rooftop.
Many times people try to protect their homes with shutters or use plywood to board up their windows each and every year. You expend a lot of time and money by boarding up your home every time a storm approaches. You don’t need to waste time and money over and over when you install hurricane windows to protect you. You will be ready all the time and if you need to evacuate you can leave your home and focus on your personal safety.
You are also given extra protection from potential burglary when you use this kind of window. They are very difficult to break into because of the durability as well as their construction and attachment to your house. Many times you can even get a break on homeowner’s insurance if you have these kinds of windows. Ring your agent to see if you would be eligible for this type of discount.
You can also protect your family and property from UV rays with these windows. UV rays will fade your drapes and furniture. You will also experience less noise pollution as a result of these windows.
Durability of Hurricane Windows
Two layers of laminated glass are put together with a piece of plastic film that is in between the glass to create a hurricane window. Even if the glass shatters this plastic will stay there and keep rain and window from coming inside your house.
To make sure your hurricane windows are effective they go through impact tests to make sure they can withstand both a small or large impact. These are akin to debris hitting your window during a storm.
Your hurricane windows can hold out against winds of 130 mph, as well as any debris which may be traveling this fast. You can also buy a hurricane window for your skylights or your patio doors to make sure your entire house is made safe.
Professional installation is key for your protection with this product so make sure to hire the right hands!
Peter J. Mason regularly edits short articles on information like interior design and decorating. His comments on hurricane windows are found on http://www.replacement-windows-tips.com/hurricane-windows.html
Labels: great, hurricane, investment, windows 1 comments
Have you wondered why there are so many more hurricanes now than there were when we were kids? This seems to be a massive change in the weather conditions, and this change has dictated a need for storm windows and hurricane shutters to help protect your home from winds and weather. If you happen to live in a hurricane prone area, then you are sure to know the importance of adding hurricane shutters and storm windows in your home building plan. This can help to protect your investment from hurricanes and other severe weather. To learn more about hurricane shutters and storm windows for your home, read on.
You first need to completely understand how these hurricane shutters can work for you. These shutters help to protect the glass in your home, so that your home will not be opened up due to flying debris. Installing hurricane shutters can help to protect the inside of your home from wind, rain, and debris. Installation is simple and they simply close over your windows to help keep them secure from wind, rain, and debris that may be flying around due to the high winds and severe weather.
When a hurricane occurs, the doors and windows of your home are the areas that are most likely to open up your home to damage. These openings to the home are not strong enough to protect your home during a hurricane or severe weather. These openings into your home are very susceptible to severe wind and flying debris during a hurricane, which is why it is important to protect these areas in order to keep your home safe. The glass in windows and the design of doors makes it difficult to keep the home secure during severe weather without storm windows and hurricane shutters.
When glass breaks in your home due to things flying around, the house quickly becomes pressurized. This causes an increase in pressure and this pressure and the wind outside begins to create a suction, which rips off the roof of your home and causes further damage. If your roof is ripped off, then your home is more likely to suffer tremendous damage. In most cases, the structure will collapse, causing the home to be completely destroyed.
After learning about all of this, you are probably considering getting hurricane shutters, especially if you live in a hurricane prone area. If you can protect the vulnerable areas of your doors and window, you can help to protect your home from severe weather. This can help to protect a substantial investment that you have made in your home. Your home depends upon the installation of your hurricane shutters and your life may depend upon it as well. Purchasing these hurricane shutters before you are faced with bad weather can give you the additional protection that your home needs to withstand the storm, which will be well worth the investment in them. Home building with protection in mind can help protect this very big investment-your home.
Being particularly passionate about kitchen valance, Clinton Maxwell was writing many news on the topic. You might see his writings on kitchen window curtains over at http://www.curtains-drapes-coverings.com/kitchen-curtains.html and other sources for kitchen window curtains tips.
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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.
To learn more about hurricane protection or hurricane preparedness, see: http://www.HurricaneShuttersFlorida.com
Labels: hurricane, shutters, types 1 comments
When we talk about window shutters, it can often be confusing because you can actually have them on the inside, such as plantation shutters, as well as the outside of your home. We are here to take all the confusion out of the various types of shutters including hurricane shutters along with wood and vinyl ones. If you live in a part of the world that is subject to tropical storms, we highly recommend installing good hurricane shutters to protect both the inside and outside of your home. A storm can do serious damage to your home’s interior structure if the windows blow out. The best time to have them installed is when you are building your home so that your contractor can tie them into the exterior décor. Great interior decorating window treatments are plantation shutters.
Custom made plantation shutters can add style, warmth and beauty to any room in your home. Louver sizes often range from 2 1/2” to 4 1/28” depending on the size and shape of your windows and the room. They come in a variety of colors as well as wood and faux wood. Faux wood is a synthetic material that will not fade, warp or chip over time. If you live in a humid climate, these may be the perfect choice for you. Real wood shutters also come in a variety of finishes so that you can match them to the room’s trim color if you like. Hurricane shutters also come in a variety of finishes and are most often custom made to ensure a perfect fit.
Many people wonder about the difference in shutter styles. The main difference with plantation shutters is that they tend to be thicker and the louvers are often wider. They provide a distinguishing look and feel to the room and are often used with traditional décors versus contemporary settings. That doesn’t mean you can’t use them in a modern home because you can. You can choose whatever window coverings you like that suit your needs and your style.
Amy-Jo Strutt is a successful home decorator writer and regular contributor to window-blinds-shades-shutters.com, an online resource to help you find the very best window treatments and coverings. http://www.window-blinds-shades-shutters.com/shutters.html
Hurricane windows are designed to protect the feature of your home that is the most vulnerable during a storm: your windows. The high winds of hurricanes hurl objects through the windows. This breaks the window and builds pressure up in the house that can break the rest of the windows and blow the roof off.
To prevent this from happening to your home, you need to take protective measures. Hurricane window protection can offer some of this protection. When choosing hurricane window protection, you need to think about how the product will be installed.
Will you need to hire a contractor, or is this a project that you can do? What is the cost involved in installing hurricane windows? Obviously, you can reduce that cost if you do the installation yourself. If you do not have hurricane windows, what are you going to do to protect your home? Can you quickly get ready for a storm if you have to hang shutters? If your windows are protected, you also have to think about protecting doors, including garage doors. There are different shutters for hurricane window protection. Accordion shutters, which come in one or two pieces, are permanently attached the the house, just outside of the windows. They do not have to be hung if a storm is approaching, you just have to fold them in over the windows.
They are the easiest to use for one person, and can be locked. Bahama Shutters are attached to the house above the window. They also stay in place all the time and are propped open when not needed for protection. They provide shade from the sun when they are in this position. If a storm threatens, they are lowered and secured to the wall beneath the window. This is also an easy, one-man job. Roll Down Shutters are rolled up in a box which is fixed to the wall above the window. When needed, you push a button to lower them, then they are locked in place. This is an expensive solution but offer the most protection of any shutter system.
However, some peope do not like they way look on a house, and you have to make sure the motor is in good working order with a backup battery system. Having the system is useless if you cannot lower the shutters when you most need to, and if electricity is lost, as often happens in a storm, they will not work without batteries. Storm Panels are aluminum or steel panels that are attached to the outside of the window on tracks. These need to be put in place as a storm approaches. The panels slide into place in the tracks, overlapping one another. This a difficult system to operate alone. Windows made of hurrican glass are made of impact resistant glass. This is a new product that is being used more and more in new construction in hurricane zones. The windows are always in place, so no additional work is involved. They can also be installed in existing homes, but they can be expensive.
They must be installed professionally in order to make sure they will protect properly. These kinds of new hurricane windows do meet the proper codes in Florida for hurricane protection.
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Depending on where you live, you might want to consider purchasing hurricane shutters for your home or business. Originally designed to protect buildings from hurricane damage, these shutters are now used throughout the country. You do not have to live in hurricane zones to use hurricane shutters. Many homeowners and businesses use hurricane shutters as a general security measure.
If you do live in a hurricane zone, you should definitely install hurricane shutters. Hurricane shutters protect your home from extreme damaging winds. These winds throw debris against your house at speeds exceeding 90 miles per hour. In particular, you want to prevent window breakage. Your goal is to keep the wind outside. If high winds get inside your home or business, it becomes trapped. In reality, the pressure from wind continues to build as it stays in a structure. This can literally cause the winds to blow your house or business apart.
Tornadoes also create high wind environments that cause damage to homes. If you live in states that experience tornadoes or other extreme high-wind weather, invest in hurricane shutters. Protecting your home is worth the investment. If windows are broken during storms, you are likely to have water damage to rooms. This is expensive and time consuming to repair. More importantly, damage to irreplaceable family heirlooms and other invaluable items is not always reparable.
You can protect your home or business from threats other than weather-related ones with clear hurricane shutters. If you live in a high crime area, hurricane shutters add additional security to your home and business. This is particularly true if you have been the victim of a crime. Even if you do not live in a high crime neighborhood, the sense of security is immeasurable. This is particularly true for individuals living alone. Investing in hurricane shutters helps ensure your protection and security.
You can purchase attractive clear hurricane shutters that do not compromise the architectural integrity of your home or business facility. Because they are clear, these hurricane shutters can be used on any structure. They provide the added security measure you need for yourself, your family, and your business.
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Bahama Shutters are popular storm shutter that evokes images of exotic locations and cool design. However, beyond this dream image sequence, you will find their design offers one of the best options in hurricane window protection. Here, we take a look at some of its advantages and why it should be a part of your hurricane preparation list.
1. Offer great shade, insulation and hurricane protection.
These gems are great for offering multiple uses. Not only is it good at providing solid hurricane window protection, it also gives excellent window shade and insulation. For those looking for ways to cut down on energy costs, this could be just the answer you are looking for.
2. Present some theft deterrent benefits.
Bahama Shutters also close durably offering an extra layer of protection between your belongings and any would be burglars. This is great peace of mind as one of the problems during hurricane evacuations is the risk of looters. Knowing your home has an additional set of protection can be invaluable.
3. Unique style that provides something extra to the home décor.
There is no question that these shutters make a statement that stands out. Many people have come away impressed with their simple functionality and are attracted to their novel design. Perhaps it is merely the fact that they are a little different that causes them to have such a draw.
4. Newer models are getting better at offering increased light and ventilation.
One of the problems in the past was that these were not the best at offering light and ventilation into the room. To address this issue, newer models have been designed by making sure they get more light in. The result has been a greater interest in these over other folding shutters.
With this many advantages, it is easy to see why Bahama shutters are making a comeback. If you have not considered them for hurricane window protection, we strongly suggest you give them another look.
For more information on the Bahama Shutters. Also, try visiting http://www.storm-shutters.net to get some solid tips on different hurricane shutters and impact windows.
Labels: bahama, hurricane, protection, shutters, window 1 comments
The most vulnerable part of your home during a hurricane are your windows for very obvious reasons. The high winds from these storms project all sorts of debris into the air, which very often can lead to a broken window in your home. When this happens, the next likely thing to happen is a window being blown out on the other side of the house, or worse yet, the entire roof blowing right off your home.
The best way to prevent this from happening is to be sure that you have hurricane window protection. And, fortunately there is a window created just for that, called fittingly a Hurricane Window.
At first it may be a bit daunting and confusing trying to figure out what the best window protection for you is when it comes to hurricane protection, so were going to give it a quick run down for you.
These are some of the things to consider when choosing protection for your home's windows.
First, you'll want to look at how easy it is to install the product. You'll want to ask yourself, can I do it myself or am I going to have to hire someone to do it?
Next is always the cost factor. One thing to remember is that doing it yourself will bring the cost down substantially since you won't be paying for labor.
Now, something to consider is how hard or easy it will be to get your home prepared for the storm. For instance when dealing with shutters, will they be a fixed item to your home, or will you have to hang them when news of a storm hits.
And last, which areas are you going to have to protect? Usually windows, doors, and garage doors are the essential items.
If you're choosing shutters for Hurricane Window Protection here are some of the different types.
Accordion Shutters
This type of shutter comes in one or two pieces depending on the type. These are permanently attached so no off and on business necessary. They unfold, much like an accordion, to cover your window, and lock with a key. This is a low fuss choice for sure.
Bahama Shutters
These will attach above your window and will be propped open when you're not using them. This adds the nice side benefit of giving your home shade from the suns rays. Just lower these shades, and lock them down to the wall when needed. Easy as well.
Roll Down Shutters
These are attached above the windows being fastened to the wall. When not in use, they're stored in a closed box. When you need them, you'll simply push a button and they will lower, and then lock in place. Though a bit more expensive these will provide you with great protection. You'll want to be sure to find a system with a battery pack, so that in case of a power failure they can still be opened.
Storm Panels
These shutters run on tracks that attach to the window. They're made of either steel or aluminum. These will have to be installed when news of the storm hits, and will probably need help sliding them in the tracks and bolting them down.
Nowadays there is special glass made for hurricane protection, which is now super popular for new homes being constructed in hurricane zones. This is nice because no extra work is needed, being that the windows are always there. This type of glass can also be used for sliding glass doors.
The glass on these windows is double paned and contains between the panes a protection slip that will hold up to high winds and debris in the event that the glass is shattered.
This is a job for professional if these windows aren't already installed on your home, since if they aren't put in correctly, your home will still be vulnerable.
Labels: devestation, home, how, hurricane, prevent, window 1 comments
Rolling hurricane shutters are the most popular and convenient type of hurricane storm shutter on the market. The reason for its success is mainly do to the fact that they are not noticeable unless you have them closed.
Another benefit of rolling storm shutters is the ability to be installed on just about any building, regardless of the way you want it setup.
To open or close rolling shutters, you can have an electric motor, hand operated crankshaft or a pull tape system.
Roll down hurricane shutters can be closed or opened from inside or outside, whichever you prefer.
If you wanted to get the best use out of the system, your rolling shutters can have a central control system which will open and close them automatically on a schedule, when winds get to high or at the flick of a switch when you want them to.
The way rolling hurricane shutters work, is with a series of slats that roll up into a housing case for compact storage. When opening or closing the slats, they slide on a track at both sides.
The tracks and hood are the only parts that take up space, so usually 3 inches of space is needed for the tracks, and six to twelve inches for the hood at top.
Some Considerations When Buying
If you are still in the building process of a home or business that you need roll down hurricane shutters for, you can have them built in right along with the windows and doors so there will be no large part visible to the naked eye.
You should also consider the impact ability of your windows, because you might be able to just get some impact glass to protect them depending on the severity of storms at the location.
Another important reminder about rolling hurricane shutters is the fact that you can not have any custom shapes likes angles or arches for certain situations.
You need to also consider obstructions like exterior lights or other things that might get in the way of the installation.
Overall, you need to remember that rolling hurricane shutters have the highest initial cost, but provide the best protection available on the market.
Labels: convenient, hurricane, protection, rolling, shutters, storm, unnoticeable 0 comments
For the millions of people that live along the United States' southern and eastern coast defenses, protecting your home from hurricanes is awfully important. One stalwart storm can disappear your home devastated in a theme of hours. If you live along America's tornado-prone coastlines, home gale protection is one sphere of investment you can't afford to discount. Nevertheless where do you create? The following homeowner's to do catalog covers five steps to take before a storm hits to make solid your home is protected.
1. Secure your windows
The enormous mass of all high coil caused cyclone harm speeds. High winds collect up debris and fling it hasty at incredible speeds. All it takes is one good sized hierarchy turn to hit your interface in just the right pimple, and now your home has been breached. Shattering flute from porthole breaks also poses a genuine danger, particularly if you are inside the home during the storm. Hurricane shutters are one of the best investments you can make to guard your windows. Look for shutters that have usual Dade County Product Approval, which is the utmost flag in the industry for tempest protection yield. For an excluding pricey decision, ponder making your own shutters with 5/8" thick plywood.
2. Secure the garage door
This is particularly important if you have a home with a close garage. The garage door is a weak argument in most homes, and it can be easily blown in by typhoon quickness winds. When the garage door is blown in and the curve stress fills your home, it only take a small time for the windows and doors to puff in, too. In the nastiest instance, the roof follows match. Some garage doors are advertised as tornado-strong, but they can be costly. Securing your garage door doesn't have to be an expensive pitch! Consider boarding your garage door done plywood, or using 2x4's to brace it from the inside.
3. Install cyclone straps
Galvanized metal storm straps are used to secure the roof trusses to block jewelry. If your house a new home, be convinced the builder uses tempest straps, as this is one of the best (and most outlay effectual) ways to make assured the roof doesn't clout off your home during a tempest. Note: It is probable to ensconce tempest straps on an unfilled home, but you may essential to hire a contractor to do the job.
4. Eliminate possible projectiles
When you know a storm entrance, move all around your home and yard, and respect objects that could potentially be selected up by the breeze and crooked into fleeting projectiles. Yard and garden jumble, birdbaths, grills, yard furniture, potted plants, and children's toys are all things to be open or brought within.
5. Trim your foliage
Keeping your foliage in good profile is an important move in making really the limbs won't come down on your house during a gale. First, lower any large branches that sling over your house. Second, delicate the tree's branches out so it won't drawback too much wind in a storm and become uprooted. Finally, ponder removing grass that wiry near a house or authority position, leaves that are ailing, or that have rotted and/or cracked trunks. These trees are a hazard and should be full out by you, so that they're not full out by a storm.
With a little time and forethought, you can decrease, and hopefully preclude, the womanhood of tempest dent to your home.
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Hurricane shutters come in a number of different varieties. However, not all of them are the same. Since storm shutters are very important towards insuring your home is safe, we have put together a list of tips you should consider in your purchase and installation:
1. If new to installing hurricane shutters, install them once prior to "need".
This will help reduce the risk of installing them incorrectly and insure your home is protected better. Since hurricane winds can easily reach an excess of 100 mph, it is a good idea to do a test run prior to their actual use. This will ensure that y
2. Shutters should be attached to the actual home rather than frames or windows.
This will give them more stability and make them less likely to come off with strong winds. In addition, it will not weaken the structural strength of the windows, doors, or frames.
3. Any metal screws or anchors should have corrosive resistant elements to them.
This will help them last for the long-haul and make it easier for you take down these shutters in the off-season.
4. If you can, avoid going for plywood shutters.
Plywood shutters are the cheapest, but also offer the least protection against wind and debris. In addition, they are one of the most labor intensive to put up and take down. Since one serious risk of hurricane shutter installation is the increased opportunity of falls from ladders, it is a good idea to go with other types of storm shutters.
5. Storm Shutters should also be placed on garage doors.
This is often an overlooked area of hurricane preparations. However, garage doors should be secured to help ensure that strong winds and debris do not damage this area. This tip can go a long way towards ensuring you have better full home protection.
6. Beyond your purchase of shutters, secure all outside furniture and belongings.
This is important because in hurricane winds these materials can become flying projectiles. By keeping these items secured, you will help reduce the amount of debris your hurricane shutters must deal with.
7. Recognize for many types of shutters you will need to make a trade-off decision.
Many shutter types offer a certain level of protection; however, the main distinction between them is their decorative option and flexibility. Some types like storm panels can be taken down whereas others are designed to be affixed to the home year round. These would include options like Accordion or roll down shutters.
By keeping this information in mind, you should be able to find some quality hurricane shutters and get through the installation process much more easily.
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People who live in coastal communities are virtually forever wallop bang in the dictate lane of hurricanes. Residents are essentials to leave immediately and take shelter in advanced ground until the storm passes.
When the weatherman news the course of the typhoon and it's title your way, the only thing any homeowner can do board up the home. This is commonly done with coppice but there is a better way now to shield the house.
The best way to shield your home is by using wind shutters. These are piquant enough to protect the windows and even the doors from gale compel winds that could be hauling soaring garbage.
There are different types of whirlwind shutters existing in the advertise. There are the royally, Bahamas, accordion and turn down versions. These are all made from different types of data such as metal or covert.
The cheapest among all these is the vinyl style. Available in your resident DIY stores, the only drawback with these kinds of shutters is the longevity when compared to other types.
Those who want coppice should try Cedar since it has an inherent oil the termites and other bugs disgust as well as preventing dampness penetration.
Of course, there is forever aluminum that oxidize strong. It doesn't look like much from the external but this will operate its job when the storm rears its horrible control.
The letters of close to be preferred will very depend on the severity of prior hurricanes. The qualities can commerce a representative from one of these companies for an optical inspection and measurements to be made to be able to devise the right one for the home.
Contractors will regularly storm per foot so you should maybe look around, and associate the charge before deciding the one to get.
Hurricane shutters are easy to invest. They're generally screwed onto the top of the edge so the assure can be pulled down. This is much better than boarding up the home because the people who live there can holiday inside when waiting at an order about whether to empty or not.
In truth, those who know some vital carpentry skills can conserve some money by wholesale the supplies and edifice this at home.
It's always a good idea to get some friends or some members of the family to help to put the whirlwind close into status given the substance of this thing once it is copious assembled.
Generally, typhoon shutters are sited further of the home. Some people have even installed a moment one inside that is more decorative adding a slightly strange but nevertheless idiosyncratic upset to the home.
When the storm has accepted, the exterior covering can be detached and stored in the garage. This should be reserved in a secure and harmless place so it can be brought out again to protect the home against the next one, especially since more than 10 of these stitch hurricanes come every year.
Hurricane shutters don't look that nice from the past however this should not deter the being from getting one for the home. It may not protect the home utterly when the storm comes but at slightest this can degrade the outlay of repairs as assurance companies are unwilling to cough up!
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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..