Impact Windows Aid In Hurricane Safety
The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration’s (NOAA) Climate Prediction Center has announced that 2008 projected climate conditions point to a near normal or above normal hurricane season, which runs June 1 through November 30. NOAA scientists predict 12 to 16 named storms, with six to nine becoming hurricanes, of which two to five could become major hurricanes of Category 3 strength or higher. In the face of such predictions, planning and preparation is the key to storm survival.
A significant factor in this planning is ensuring the home’s integrity is as secure as possible, either when originally constructed or during any remodeling upgrades. A vast amount of research into the effects on a home during a hurricane has been done over recent year. Since Hurricane Andrew swept through southern Florida in 1992, building codes have continued to improve construction of the building envelope.
Conventional wisdom has long held that ensuring the home’s roof stays on top of the dwelling is the best way to protect the structure and its contents. Additionally, windows and doors must not be breached so high velocity winds cannot affect the pressure inside. Originally, this was accomplished by permanent hurricane shutters, or by temporary plywood shutters. However, these mechanisms require active assembly by either the homeowner or a contractor once a storm’s path is established. This is made even more difficult and timely the number of absentee owners in these vacation towns along our coasts.
Enter the impact window. With laminated glass to protect against hurricane debris penetration and structural integrity to withstand hurricane force intensity, impact windows serve the home’s defense needs whether the homeowner is present or not. Additionally, once the storm has passed, impact windows and doors allow natural light back into the home—a blessing when the power is out and there is no visibility because of shutters covering the openings.
Building codes vary by state, and even by municipality in many regions. From Long Island, New York to Brownsville, Texas, names like Hazel, Hugo, Fran and Andrew still bring nightmares to the residents who lived through these hurricanes. Fortunately, today’s coastal homes are constructed with the knowledge we gained from these storms. If there’s one thing we have learned, the building materials we use to construct these homes and the building codes drafted to ensure they are used properly must be employed.
Protection is not just confined to the dwelling, however. Residents in the coastal towns must know and follow official evacuation procedures. Each home must have an emergency “storm kit” with non-perishable food items, water and clothing. There are also informative organizations dedicated to storm safety. Please take a moment to visit the sites below to ensure your family is well protected, and well educated on hurricane protection.
