Yesteday, NOAA announced their Atlantic hurricane season forecast. As a follow-up, NPR published a good article about the hurricane season forecast. I totally agree with their message “It only takes one”. For us who live in the South Florida region hurricanes are a part of life.
Even if we get only one or two major hurricanes this season, for the ones who are affected it will be the worst season of all. My personal take on the issue is, we all need to get ready before hurricanes hit. The good thing about hurricane preparation is many precautions you take will last for many years to come, and they will most likely increase your home value.
-Camilo
When you decide you want to protect your loved ones from harm’s way during the hurricane season you will have several options. Some homeowners consider putting up their shutters themselves. Do not resort to this option unless you definitely cannot afford professional services. Unless you know what you are doing the odds are you will hurt yourself while trying to put up the shutters. Also these storm panels you will up will only protect your house against small hurricanes. If you want the best possible solution you need to work with professionals approved by your county.
Once you contact hurricane shutter installers they will give you several options: Accordion Shutters, Bahama Shutters, Colonial Shutters, Storm Panels, Roll-Up Shutters and Impact Windows. These all have their cons and pros. I will try to summarize each of these products for you.
Impact Windows is the newest trend in the industry. You are going to pay more compared to regular aluminium hurricane shutters but these windows will not change the look of your home at all and they will definitely increase the value of your home.
Accordion shutters, are one of the best protection you can get against hurricanes. They are not that expensive and they will definitely protect your home.
Roll-up shuttersare best if you want an automated option. With the push of a putton your home will be protected against the hurricanes.
Storm Panels will be the affordable option within your choices. They will be easy to install and easy to take off but if you are looking for the best protection you should consider other options.
Finally, Colonial Shutters and Bahama Shutters will provide both aesthetics and protection together. Do not expect these to be as strong as the other products but they will also be more affordable.
I hope this short summary helps in your decision making.
-Camilo