How to Prepare Your Windows for Hurricane Season

 

From hurricanes to tornadoes and severe thunderstorms, Florida is no stranger to extreme weather. The most recent storm to significantly impact the area was Hurricane Irma in 2017. Irma, landing in Tampa as a Category 2, brought damaging, roof-ripping winds, widespread power outages, and gushing floodwaters to our area. The storm ranks as one of the strongest and costliest hurricanes to hit the Atlantic. 

High wind gusts (60-90 mph) will definitely devastate your windows if you are unprepared; it doesn’t take much to cause damage to property. A heavy thunderstorm can compromise your property, especially if your windows aren’t in great shape. 

With hurricane season soon upon us (June 1 - November 30, 2021), here are are things you can do at property prepare your windows and home  to withstand the upcoming storms: 

Install Impact Windows

The best way to prepare your windows for hurricane season is to replace them with impact windows. If you have an older home, your windows are likely less durable and do not meet the Florida Building Code requirements. 

Impact windows provide the best protection against storms. They are specifically designed to withstand winds up to 200 MPH and will help prevent glass from shattering.Most of the damage during storms occurs through windows and doors; once either is broken they allow wind, flying debris, and water inside your home - potentially resulting in structural damage. Installing impact windows increases the chances of your home withstanding the brunt of the storm, keeping your family and belongings safe.

Protect ALL Windows

Some Tampa Bay area homeowners mistakenly believe impact-resistant windows only need to be installed on waterfront-facing windows. However, flying debris and winds can blow from all angles, making it essential to take precautions for all of your home’s windows, water-facing or not.

Clean Your Yard

Any items sitting in your yard can become high-speed projectiles under the right hurricane or other weather conditions. Move your outdoor furniture, grills, toys, and  loose yard décor into storage. If you have time, trim your tree branches so they cannot directly beat against your windows, siding, or roof.

Schedule a Consultation

If you’re worried about the state of your windows for the upcoming hurricane season or would like that extra peace of mind, contact one of our Window Design Experts to schedule a consultation. Our professionals can recommend replacement window options to provide protection for your home from hurricanes and other forces of nature. 

At The Window Depot, we are the home improvement experts in the Tampa Bay area. If you need replacement windows, we offer vinyl and aluminum windows from the top manufacturers. All of the products we offer will provide decades of beauty and dependable performance. Call us at (813) 901-5555 or fill out our contact form to schedule an appointment or learn more about our products and services. You can also visit our showroom in Palm Harbor to view our windows firsthand.

 


Sources

http://www.sprbm.org/important-benefits-impact-windows/

https://www.pgtwindows.com/ 

https://www.thewindowdepotllc.com/ 




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