If you live in a hurricane-prone area, you know how important it is to have proper protection. However, much misinformation about hurricane windows can lead to dangerous mistakes during a storm. For example, some believe cracking a window relieves pressure inside their home but increases interior pressure. These misconceptions can be avoided by understanding three common myths about hurricane windows. For more information about home builders head over to Carlisle Homes.
Shutte rs Are Not Needed
While it is true that hurricane windows can stand up to the test of a 2×4 thrown at them at 34mph (which is an outstanding level of protection), they are not completely foolproof. Taping your windows to prevent them from breaking will make it easier for debris to pierce the glass and break into larger shards, which could seriously injure you or your loved ones.
Also, when the windows break, it will allow water into your home and potentially create internal pressure that can rip the roof off your house. Installing shutters will protect your hurricane windows from breaking and keep the elements out. If you are considering investing in a hurricane proof window but are worried that you might not need them because your area doesn’t get many storms, be aware that they have several other benefits that make them worthwhile.
Ocean-Facing Windows Need More Protection
The wind, rain, and debris that a hurricane brings can cause devastating damage to homes and buildings. Unfortunately, standard windows are not capable of withstanding these forces. The risk of injury during a storm can be decreased by purchasing hurricane windows for homes and businesses. This type of window features a laminated pane of glass, and it is designed to stop debris from flying through the window. Hurricane windows are also made to flex in the frames, and they do not shatter into dangerous shards. They are created by using one or more layers of laminate PVB and bonded together with a structure to create an impact-resistant window. Not only are hurricane windows effective at protecting against severe tropical storms, but they are also effective in keeping out would-be burglars. A 2′ x 4′ piece of timber is fired at the glass at 34 mph as part of the Forced Entry Test they are put through.
Only Ocean-Facing Windows Need to Be Boarded Up
Hurricanes produce high atmospheric pressure, which, when combined with the force of the wind, can cause a dangerous build-up inside a home or building. Some people believe they should only board windows facing the ocean or the prevailing winds. However, this is a big mistake. Hurricanes are moving, rotating storms and can come from any direction. Leaving any unprotected window opens the door to damaging debris and a dangerously increased interior pressure that could cause your property to collapse. Some people also believe they should open windows during a hurricane to equalize the pressure. It is a dangerous myth because hurricanes spin and rotate as they move through land, and no window is safe from debris. Opening a window during a storm allows the violent air to seep in and can create more damage than if the windows were closed. Taping a window doesn’t prevent it from breaking, either.
Taping Windows Will Prevent Them From Breaking
There’s a common sight in neighborhoods as hurricane season approaches: houses with tape covering windows, usually in an X shape. Many people believe this will prevent the windows from breaking in a storm. Hurricanes bring a huge area of low pressure, but buildings aren’t airtight. There are plenty of little openings in the walls and roof, so building enough force to blow a window is hard. Taping your windows won’t help anyway. It won’t stop debris from hitting them in a storm. Removing potential projectiles around your home and bringing outdoor furniture inside is the best way to protect your windows. It’s also a good idea to trim trees and clear out leaves and branches that could become airborne and hit your house or ricoche. You can also buy special shatter-resistant window films that will make it harder for your windows to break into shards when they do shatter during a storm.
