Protecting Your Doors and Windows

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Many products and systems are availble to protect your home's openings but it is critical that any product or system be both tested and approved for wind load and wind borne debris. Unprotected standard glass windows can be penetrated easily by wind borne debris in severe windstorms allowing damaging water and wind to enter your home. Once the window glass fails, the subsequent pressurization of the structure can cause total destruction of the house. With the exception of impact-resistant window glass, all other glass, even if it is tempered, reinforced or insulated, needs to be protected during a severe wind storm. Shutter Your Windows Installing storm shutters is one of the best ways to protect your home. Purchase or make storm shutters for all exposed windows, glass surfaces, French doors, sliding glass doors, and skylights. The most common device for opening protection is the hurricane shutter system. Choices include permanent or temporary shutter systems for use on windows and skylights as well as gable end vents, sliding glass doors, exterior doors, and garage doors. There are two types of shutter systems, permanent shutters, and temporary shutters. Permanent shutters should be installed by trained individuals and according to the manufacturer's specifications to ensure the shutters will perform as designed and tested. Factors to consider when choosing a shutter system are approval status, design and test results for wind and impact resistance. Permanent shutter types include Bahamas, roll downs, accordion, awning, and colonial hinged.

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