Comparison of Hurricane Window Protection Methods

Shutters

• Hurricane shutters can refer to almost any solid material designed to cover windows, from plywood to steel. You can purchase special shutters designed especially for hurricane protection. Metal accordion or roll-down shutters are permanently affixed to the house. You simply roll them out or down and fasten them into place. Some of these shutters even operate electrically, though most have a mechanism to allow manual operation in the event the electricity goes out. These shutters can be sized to fit almost any size window, including large picture windows and sliding glass doors. They're one of the most expensive solutions, and not everyone likes how they look on the house.

  You can also purchase metal storm panels designed to fit your windows. These are attached with screws and must be put up and taken down every time a hurricane threatens. They must be stored in a secure place when not in use.

Plywood

• Every hurricane season, television news shows people affixing plywood to their windows in preparation for an approaching storm. Plywood can be less expensive than metal shutters, but it's bulky and hard to store. And in the coastal climates most likely to be affected by hurricanes, plywood can rot in a matter of months. According to the International Hurricane Protection Association, plywood doesn't meet building codes or insurance industry standards. If the plywood fails to protect your windows, the insurance company may not pay for the damage.

  If you must use plywood, buy sheets at least ½-inch thick and at least 2 inches larger than the windows on all sides. Attach with 1- to 2-inch screws or anchors, spaced every 12 inches all the way around the plywood.

Window Film

• Window film won't protect windows from breaking, but the film contains the shattered glass and keeps storm water from leaking into the home. The film is relatively inexpensive and is clear, so it can be left in place year round. However, you'll have to replace broken window glass and the film if you suffer storm damage, and the film is not a defense against all flying debris.

High-Impact Glass

• High-impact glass, also known as laminated glass, consists of two sheets of glass sandwiching a laminated film, similar to the construction of auto glass. Laminated glass can withstand very high impact. The glass may crack and spider-web, but it doesn't break. The Florida Building Code requires impact glass in all new construction in coastal areas designated as high velocity wind zones. The main drawback of impact glass is its very high cost. It may have to be special-ordered for odd-size windows and is also heavier and more difficult to work with than standard window glass.