Live In A Hurricane Prone Area? 2 Tips To Keep You And Your Family Safe
If you live in an area that gets a lot of hurricanes, you need to make changes to your home to keep you and your family safe. Below are two tips on how you can do this, so you won't have to worry as much if you do have high winds.
Install Hurricane Shutters
You will also hear hurricane shutters referred to as hurricane window covers and storm shutters. Some people use these shutters for security along with protection from hurricanes so you may hear them called security hurricane shutters.
These shutters cover your windows completely to prevent windows from breaking during a hurricane. Windows that break can cause injury to anyone near the window. Hurricane shutters are made of strong, durable materials that can withstand high, powerful winds. This may be aluminum, steel, or impact-resistant plastic.
There are different types of hurricane shutters available, such as accordion shutters, which slide open and shut. Storm panels are also used which are affixed to the window before you have a storm and then removed after. They are generally easy to install so you can do this quickly. You will have to have the window outfit with some hardware that will have to stay on the windows to make it easy to install the panels.
These shutters come in a variety of prices. Storm panels are not expensive but something like Bahama shutters is more decorative and costs more. There are electric roll-down shutters that are in the place of storm panels, but they will cost more. Visit or contact a company that sells storm shutters, and they can help you choose the best type for your home.
Install a New Roof
If your roof is old this would be a good time to change it. If not, hire a roofing contractor to inspect the roof for damage and make repairs as needed. If you have a common asphalt roof on your home, you should replace it as asphalt does not hold up well during very high winds.
Metal roofing can withstand high winds. This does cost more than other roofing options, but metal is very durable and will last a long time on your home. If you want something more decorative, concrete or clay tiles can work well. You can choose from a variety of colors and styles. These can also withstand high winds but are not as good as metal roofing.
Slate tiles can also be used, which is an eco-friendly option for you. These do not offer as much protection as metal or concrete or clay roofing but can hold up well if the winds are not extremely high. You do need to make sure the slate tiles stay in good condition, or they will become loose during a hurricane.
Having hurricane shutters and a secure roof can offer you the most protection from hurricanes.
