Shopping For Home Wind And Rain Protection Options
Every year, folks that live on the East Coast of the U.S. hear predictions about how grim the upcoming hurricane season is going to be. Those predictions are usually wrong — either for better or worse. Many people think that those forecasts can be a waste of energy, but it doesn’t stop them from making them.
Hurricane unpredictability does provide a good reason to prepare though. Just talk to any individual who has lived through even one storm. They’ll most likely convey to you that being prepared can make a big difference. If you’re new to being in a hurricane zone, though, you probably need some help comprehending what’s required to be safe.
Storm protection is known by many names, so it pays to be knowledgeable about all the types before you buy. You may be familiar with impact resistant windows, but there are also subcategories within that category, in addition to other categories. When looking for impact resistant glass, remember that there are two basic safeguards varieties, windows and doors that remain installed year-round, and safeguards you put in place when you know a hurricane is approaching. The following information will give you a general idea of the differences:
* Hurricane Panels and Shutters
Storm Panels
These can be bought in aluminum or clear sections and are generally the least costly variation of storm protection.
Accordion Shutters
Accordion hurricane shutters are the most used type of code-approved design and style because they’re solid, budget friendly, and can be closed easily.
Roll-up Hurricane Shutters
These are generally called roll-downs or roll-ups, and are also the most expensive type of storm shutter. The additional cost is because they’re made out of a strong double-walled curtain that travels up and down on tracks.
* Hurricane Windows and Doors
Wind-Resistant Entry Doors
Single and double entry doors are are available in stainless steel or fiberglass construction with optional fiberglass frames and stainless hinges for added corrosion prevention. They’re impact tested to withstand hurricane winds and eradicate the need for hurricane shutters over entryways.
Wind-Resistant Hurricane-Rated Garage Doors
Hurricane-rated garage doors are made to surpass strict construction codes in hurricane-prone places.
Impact-Resistant PGT Windows
PGT windows possess a lower sash that slides to open top to bottom. Their straightforward style offers protection, ease of operation, reliability and attractiveness.
High-Impact Horizontal Roller Windows
Horizontal high-impact roller windows slide side-to-side, like sliding glass doors, and are usually used over over kitchen area counters and sinks. They’re well-accepted because of their modern look and simplicity.
Hurricane-Safe Casement Windows
Casement glass windows use high-tech engineering, and the variety of wide frames and strong cranks, to make them favorite choices in cutting-edge homes.
Impact-Resistant Fixed Picture Windows
Impact-resistant fixed windows don’t open and can range in shape from arched or spherical to rectangular or trapezoid, subject to some measurement constraints to ensure basic safety. They also are known as architectural windows.
Wind-Resistant Sliding Glass Doors
Hurricane-proof sliding glass doors have movable sections that slide side-to-side and provide you with unobstructed vistas. They’ve got heavy-duty casings that allow them to be opened and closed with no trouble and provide tried and tested storm protection.
Wind-Resistant French Doors
French doors are created to be eye-catching while providing high-performance impact resistance and energy efficiency. They’re attainable in single and double door configurations, and optional matching side lites are also available.
