If you have just moved to an area of the country that is prone to hurricanes, you have a bit more to do on your settling in list than just unpacking. You also need to make sure that your new home will be able to withstand a hurricane. One of the most important parts of your home to hurricane proof are your windows. You don't want your windows to break during a hurricane; not only is that messy, it can be deadly as well. Here are a few steps you can take to ensure the windows in your home are safe if a hurricane strikes.
Upgrade To High-Impact Windows
The first thing you should do is find out what type of windows are currently installed in your home. If you have regular double pane windows in your home, you should call up a window installation contractor and have them give you an estimate for high-impact windows.
High-impact windows are built to withstand high-winds and should not shatter when hit with projectiles that are flying in high speeds. High-impact windows are one of the best types of windows you can have installed in your home if you live somewhere where hurricanes strike.
Install Hurricane Window Film
If you can't upgrade to high-impact windows right away, you can add hurricane film to your windows. Even if you have high-impact windows, adding hurricane film to them will not hurt.
You should be able to purchase hurricane film in most home improvement stores in your area; if you can't find it locally, though, you can easily order it online.
Hurricane window film goes over your window panes and covers the frame of your windows as well. It is a thick film that is transparent that you can install on your own. It's kind of like adhering a giant sticker to the windows in your home. You can see through the film.
If your windows break during a hurricane, the film will keep the broken glass in place and will prevent the broken glass pieces from flying through your house at high speeds in the event of a hurricane.
Install Storm Shutters
Finally, regardless of if you upgrade your windows right away, you are going to want to install storm shutters. Storm shutters are added to the outside of your house, and allow you to quickly cover up your windows when a storm warning is issued.
Instead of having to get out the plywood and spend time covering up your windows every time a hurricane warning is issued, you'll just have to close your storm shutters. Most storm shutters are designed to either roll down or be pulled shut horizontally.
Storm shutters will keep any flying debris during out of your home if a hurricane actually does strike, and it will keep your windows safe and intact. You can call up a local storm shutter company and have them come out, give you a quote, and schedule installation in order to get this protection right away.
If you just moved to an area of the country where hurricanes are known to strike, one of the first things you need to do is make sure that your windows are hurricane safe by upgrading the glass, installing hurricane film and installing storm shutters.
For professional help, contact a company such as Active Hurricane & Security Protection.
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