Covering windows with storm shutters or panels is one of the best ways to minimize damage to your home during a hurricane. There are many types available, but all require advance planning so they’re ready to go when a storm is heading your way.
The Different Types of Storm Panels
Plywood
The old standby and least expensive option, plywood is not approved for hurricane protection by many state building codes. While 1/2” plywood used to be considered adequate, it’s now recommended that sheets be at least 5/8” thick to provide protection from flying projectiles. Since plywood is heavy and awkward to handle, hanging it can be labor-intensive and may require two people.
Buy plywood before hurricane season, since it can be in short supply when a storm is approaching. Cut it to size before hurricane season arrives to reduce last-minute preparations. Attach plywood every 12-inch using bolts, screws, barrel bolts or special clips.
Metal Storm Panels
Corrugated aluminum or steel panels are extremely strong. Individual panels overlap each other for added strength. They can be installed on permanently mounted tracks or bolted in place.
Plastic Storm Panels
Polycarbonate plastic (Lexan) is available in corrugated panels that are installed in permanently mounted tracks or bolted in place. Plastic shutters come in clear, translucent, and opaque styles. While the most expensive form of protection, unlike plywood or metal, they allow light in your home during a storm.
Fabric Storm Panels
Touted as an effective alternative to rigid materials, fabric storm panels are made from a geo-synthetic, PVC coated fabric or Kevlar. They attached around windows and doors using grommets and bolts or straps and buckles. While keeping wind, rain, and flying debris out, the mesh fabric allows light and some air to come through.
You wouldn’t think that fabric would provide sufficient protection for your windows against hurricane force winds and flying projectiles, but many fabric storm panels meet or exceeded state building codes as well as ASTM standards for hurricane protection.
While most fabric storm panels are installed by the dealer, homeowners may be able to buy the material and install it themselves for around $5 per square foot for PVC fabric.
Storm Shutters Pros and Cons
There are advantages and disadvantages to each of the different types of storm shutters.
| Cost: Materials & Installation | Pros | Cons | |
| Fabric | PVC $12/sq. ft., Kevlar $20-$22sq. ft. | Lightweight Very easy to put up once mounted Lets light in Fold for easy storage |
Expensive |
| Plywood | 50¢-75¢/sq. ft. (Materials Only) | Least expensive Readily available DIY installation |
Heavy, may need help putting up Requires storage space May not meet building codes Blocks light |
| Plastic (Lexan) | $17-$19/sq. ft. | Fairly easy to put up once mounted Lets light in Lightweight |
Expensive May need help putting up Requires storage space |
| Metal | $10-$12/sq. ft. | Fairly easy to put up once mounted Corrugated design adds strength |
May need help putting up Blocks light Requires storage space |
Bottom Line
Storm shutters and panels are an effective way to protect your windows and doors during a hurricane. No matter which type you choose, plan your project out well in advance of hurricane season and consider professional installation.
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