Hurricane Shutter Info

Mike Eggert asked:


With the current increase in number and intensity of hurricanes and their expanded range, a new focus needs to be placed on preparedness. Obviously, there are certain times when evacuation is the only answer. But, in the mean time, we need to focus on better preparation. Well built structures still need the added protection of hurricane shutters. Without shutters, substantial damage can still be experienced even if the main structure is not affected due to wind breakage and the intrusion of winds and rain. Well designed shutters can result in reduced damages.

There are a number of commercial shutters on the market and various plywood designs. It is important that the public be informed as to which type of shutter is most effective. What are the best shutters? The best kind is those that are affordable, are easy to install an offer the best protection. Which of these properties is most important depends on individual circumstance. Some would prefer an automatic closing or accordion shutter. Those on limited income may have to resort to inexpensive plywood shutters. The most worthless type of protection is in the use of tape over the windows. This does nothing to prevent breakage and could result in larger, more dangerous pieces of flying glass and is very hard to remove after the storm. Some people are using a special impact resistant material with some success. Others are using a new type of impact resistant storm window.

Various commercial storm shutters can be effective but many are untested and have been found to fail in stronger hurricanes. Today all commercial shutters pass rigorous tests before being approved for sale and installation. The shutters range from the most inexpensive, metal corrugated panels, aluminum or steel (heavier but stronger). To electrically operated roll shutters, also effective if properly constructed. Some however can not afford any type of commercial shutter and must resort to using plywood. Many times the plywood can be ripped off in high winds and become flying missiles. Keep in mind you should protect your home with the best hurricane shutters you can afford. After all, your home is your castle and should be protected by whatever means you have available. Whatever type of shutters selected, remember that shutters are only as good as their installation.

Also a shutter cannot fully compensate for a poorly constructed house and or an unprotected garage or other large objects that can impact homes and other structures during a major hurricane. But, with a little preparation beforehand the damage will be minimized. Plywood shutters are an inexpensive alternative to commercial shutters but it should be noted they do not always meet certain building code requirements. You might want to check with your county first before installing them. They do require a good deal of physical labor to install. In many regions people will come together in time of crisis and with a few extra pair of hands, and a little thought in preparing, things will move along at a much higher pace. Whatever type of hurricane shutter you select always use the best you can afford. And, after they are installed be sure to inspect all panels on a regular basis.

hurricaneshutters asked:

High Velocity® provides comprehensive hurricane shutter consulting, design, engineering, manufacturing, installation and associated services to the commercial and residential building industry. Offering a complete selection of innovative and precision engineered hurricane shutter systems utilizing state-of-the-art design and rigorous quality control standards, High Velocity® will exceed your expectations in installation and service. … Accordion Category Roll Shutters windstorm mitigation …

Jerry Cahill asked:


With hurricane season swiftly approaching and many homes right in the path of these monsters, you are probably stocking up on supplies such as hurricane shutters to protect your home.

Hurricane shutters can be ordered through local stores or online, or you can make some of your own. If you opt to make some of your own, here are some basic tips for you to remember so your homemade hurricane shutters will hold up through the storm:

1. When purchasing the plywood for your hurricane shutters, make sure that you get at least ¾ inch or 5/8 inch exterior plywood that is sturdy and has no cracks, cuts, or other imperfections in it. The stronger the plywood that you use, the better protected the vulnerable parts of your home will be.

2. Make sure that you purchase 3 inch, or larger, heavy duty bolts to secure the plywood to the outside of the windows. If the window is a smaller one, you will only need four bolts to secure it to the outside of the window. If the window is a larger one, you will need six to eight bolts to ensure that the plywood is secure and won’t have any place to come loose. Try to place the bolts about every two feet, if possible.

3. Make sure that the plywood is cut to the correct size to fit the window. Measure each window and make the appropriate cuts to ensure that the wood will fit snuggly into the window frame. Mark each piece of wood as it is cut so you will know the following: which window it goes on, and the top, bottom, front, and back of each piece of wood.

4. When you are screwing the bolts to the wood, make sure that you measure exactly where they need to go on the wood by holding the piece into the window and marking where the bolts need to go, both on the window and the frame. This way, you aren’t making last minute adjustments when you don’t have the time.

5. When drilling the holes for the bolts, make sure that you use a drill bit that will ensure a snug fit for the screws. If the hole are too large, the screws won’t fit properly and all your work will have been for nothing if the shutter comes loose during the storm.

6. Once you have completed the measuring, cutting, and placing the bolts on the pieces of plywood, you can always waterproof them or varnish them to keep them from deteriorating during the water and wind that is sure to come with the storm. This will also save you some money in the long run, as you can reuse these hurricane shutters again if they are not damaged too much during the storm.

Just remember that no matter what type of wood, bolts, and varnish you use, a hurricane shutter is only as good as you make it. The more time that you can devote to ensuring that you have a great fit for each window, the better these homemade hurricane shutters will be, and the better the interior of your home will be protected.

So, take your time and make sure that you do everything right so you will be able to rest easy knowing your home is protected from the storm’s fury.

daveglf asked:

Ballistics testing hurricane shutter material (2) … hurricane shutter ballistics

ArkRainbow asked:

A quick installation overiew of Ark Rainbow’s Hurricane Shutter Strap. … Hurricane Shutter Strap Install Ark Rainbow