Hurricanes bring with them many potential hazards. Between flooding, strong winds and damage from debris, there are lots of things to prepare for. One major way you can prottect yourself and your home during a hurricane is by taking steps to prepare your windows. Here are 3 common ways to hurricane-proof the windows in your home:
Hurricane Film
Hurricane film is a popular option for reinforcing your windows against strong winds and debris. It's a tough, clear plastic film you can apply to your windows yourself. It's inexpensive and can prevent glass from shattering and spreading into your home. Unfortunately, it's not enough to prevent the entire window pane from blowing in, but it will lower your risk of injury or damage and injury from broken glass.
Plywood
Plywood is a tried-and-true material for reinforcing your windows in a variety of storm situations. It's one of the toughest materials in the building industry and also inexpensive enough to buy in large quantities without breaking the bank. To shield your windows with plywood, cut sheets that are at least 1/2 inch thick and overlap the sides of your windows by at least 8 inches.
Use heavy duty screws, anchors or expansion bolts to attach the plywood to the walls. While it involves a bit of DIY handiwork, plywood is a tough and reusable option for protecting your windows in a hurricane.
Storm Shutters
Professionally installed storm shutters offer the advantage of quick setup when it's time to hunker down in preparation for a hurricane. These shutters are permanent installations and therefore cost more than the above options. However, they are simple to use: simply pull the accordion-style shutters down into place before the hurricane gets close to prevent damage to your windows.
These are the three most common ways to hurricane-proof your home's windows. Keep these ideas in mind when considering your best options for hurricane safety.
About the Author
Pablo Torres
Pablo Torres is a qualified Real Estate Agent with over 10 years experience in real estate sales, due diligence and contract negotiations. Knowledgeable of South Florida neighborhoods. Currently, Pablo focuses his skills on all markets in the Miami metropolitan area.
He has the ability to understand sellers, buyers and renters needs with excellent communication. Fluent in English and Spanish with working knowledge of Portuguese. Pablo has impeccable reputation and a passion for real estate.
He graduated with a degree in International Business from Florida International University (1998) and a masters in business administration from Nova Southeastern University (2003). He had embarked on a career in commercial banking before being driven to switch to one of his passions-real estate.
Dedication, perseverance and punctuality allowed Pablo to sell different types of properties. His expertise with South Florida's cultural diversity has allowed him to sell real estate to both buyers and sellers.
Part of what makes Pablo so successful is his dedication to exceptional customer service and his devotion to their needs, whether they are buying or selling properties. Pablo has many repeat customers who cite his willingness to work long hours to resolve the toughest issues, as a reason why they stick with him. Torres integrity, attention to detail and careful handling of a transaction, exceeds their expectations. Sellers know that Pablo's extensive and personalized marketing strategies, means that their listing is seen by most buyers.
As a real estate professional, Pablo has the tools to represent your interests in virtually any transaction. Pablo's ability to interview, reason and figure out the smallest details makes every successful transaction a seamless process. Pablo is the right real estate professional to hire.
