Hurricane 2012: Before the storm - Types of window protection

When searching for window protection, the International Hurricane Protection Association says to look for shutters and windows that are classified as “hurricane protection products.”

These are the various types of window protections:

■ Accordion shutters — These folding, permanent shutters slide into installed tracks to protect windows and doors. They work well to protect sliding glass doors and condominiums because no storage is required.

■ Roll-down shutters — These electric or hand-cranked shutters slide vertically to cover windows and doors. They are quick and easy when securing your home before a storm. Roll-downs work well on windows with no outside access.

■ Storm panels — These vertical shutters are stored in a stack and are installed at the time of the storm.

■ Plywood — Plywood doesn’t provide the best protection for your home, and most plywood shutters don’t meet the new building code or insurance industry standards. They should be used as a last resort. No insurance discounts will be offered if you use plywood shutters. If not secured well, they can become flying objects and aren’t effective in protecting sliding-glass doors and big windows. Installation can be time-consuming and difficult; don’t work alone.

■ Window film — Window film isn’t a substitute for shutters. While it helps reduce the amount of broken glass that flies around after the storm, there is also potential for the window film to collapse if hit. Window film also doesn’t qualify under the current building code as approved hurricane protection for single-family dwelling units.

Source: International Hurricane Protection Association

2012 SOUTHWEST FLORIDA HURRICANE GUIDE

Before the storm

• Play it safe, be prepared
• Start early to make trees storm-safe
• Take steps to minimize damage to pool area
• Storm prep vital for boats, boaters
• Protect your loved ones and history
• Plan ahead to get into special needs shelter
• Keep medical records safe by storing them electronically
• Be thorough before, after hurricane to ensure coverage
• Hurricane Andrew 20-year anniversary
• Have a plan for evacuation
• Generator safety crucial before use
• Types of window protection
• Types of hurricane intensity

During the storm

• Stay safe by heeding these weather tips
• Be alert to these road projects during 2012 hurricane season

After the storm

• What is the best way to repair your roof?
• Check out contractors before you hire someone to do repairs

Other stories

• Florida faces other weather risks, too
• Emergency managers tap new apps, social media for 2012 hurricane season

2012 Hurricane Guide

• John Patrick: Busy season or not, one direct hit is all it takes, so be prepared

Links

• Hurricane shelters for south Lee and Collier counties
• Evacuation routes for south Lee and Collier counties
• On the Web
• Important phone numbers
• Hurricane Photos
• Hurricane Videos