Very little or nothing can be done to stop hurricanes, particularly in hurricane-prone areas. By the way, states like Texas, Louisiana, and Florida deal with quite a number of them every year.

This is especially true during the Atlantic hurricane season. For more information, you can check: https://disasterphilanthropy.org/.

However, this does not mean people in such areas are to fold their hands and do nothing. On the other hand, quite a lot can be done in the spirit of staying safe and secure, which therefore begs the question of what should and should not be done.

Well, the idea of taping windows for protection is a good place to start. The truth is that it should be seriously discouraged for several reasons. Read on as this article further discusses the reasons why and what to do instead.

The Dangers of Taping Windows for Hurricane Protection

Taping windows as a way to increase protection during hurricanes is an age-long practice. However, this does not mean that it is effective as there are even dangers in the mix. Well, a few reasons why this practice should be not considered are discussed below:

Creation of Larger & More Dangerous Shards

Glasses are usually broken into little pieces when they shatter. By the way, the intensity of whatever causes the breakage also determines how well they shatter into little pieces.

For starters, the use of tapes does not offer any additional protection. It only reduces the chances of broken windows shattering into little pieces. The fact that the tape is already holding things together increases the chances of this.

Well, this is more dangerous as larger broken glasses can cause more damage, especially when launched as a projectile by intense wind during a storm. So, the window is even better off without tapes.

No Protection

The wind pressure during hurricanes is massive. Of course, this also depends on the magnitude. Overall, it is usually intense and a lot more than anything tapes can help with. You should therefore consider more effective hurricane-protective strategies, which will of course be discussed in this article.

False Hope

There is a false sense of hope that the use of tapes for this purpose may instill. It is one that often makes some people neglect the right protective measures. Unfortunately, lives and properties can be put on the line as a result.

Alternatives to Window-Taping for Hurricane Protection

Window-taping offers very little or nothing when it comes to hurricane protection. There are dangers even associated with the practice as also pointed out. Thankfully, there are at least 3 effective approaches, and they are:

Hurricane Shutters

These installations protect windows from both high-pressure winds, as well as flying debris. By the way, there are various kinds including:

Accordion Shutters

These options are only used during hurricane seasons and are foldable. This allows for easy storage when not in use.

Storm Panels

They are equally used temporarily. However, quick setup and dismantling are some of their major highlights.

Roll-Down Shutters

They are one of the most convenient options. This is because they can be stationed permanently. All that is required for their active usage is rolling them down as the name suggests.

Colonial Shutters

They are perhaps the most aesthetically valuable option. So, they can be considered by those who are also particular about looks.

Impact-Resistant Windows

Frankly, hurricane shutters offer quite a lot. However, many (including experts) consider impact-resistant windows to be a lot better for several reasons. Some of the said reasons include:

  • Unobstructed Views – Also important for indoor lighting and energy-efficiency
  • Permanent Protection
  • Convenience
  • Added Home Value
  • Noise Reduction
  • Additional Security
  • UV Protection

One common question is how impact-resistant windows are different from regular options, especially when it comes to offering protection during hurricanes. For starters, they are produced using several and not just one layer of glass. By the way, some of the layers are shatter-resistant and not just regular glasses.

Secondly, their frames are an integral part of what makes them very protective. You can see Paradise Exteriors for more on this. Overall, they are designed to adhere to certain stringent standards, which are the basis for which they are categorized as impact resistant.

Extra Protective Measures

Your protection against the odds brought about by hurricanes should not just be limited to the use of hurricane shutters or impact-resistant windows. Some extra protective measures should be put in place. Some of what to do in this regard include:

  • Flood Prevention – Especially through the installation of proper drainage systems.
  • Proper Maintenance of Close-By Trees – For example, dead branches should be removed promptly as they can become a lethal projectile during hurricanes.
  • Reinforcement of Entry Points – Garage doors are a prime example, for those that have such.
  • Removal/Securing of Outdoor Items – Loose items stationed outdoors can become a threat to safety during hurricanes. This is because they can be sent flying and cause damage, which is why they should be properly secured or better yet taken inside to prevent this.

These are bare minimums for even those who invest in the use of shutters or impact-resistant windows. So, ensure that you adhere to these.

Importance of Engaging Appropriate Storm Protection Techniques

The use of either hurricane shutters or impact-resistant windows and the implementation of the extra protective measures discussed above offer several benefits, including:

Enhanced Safety & Peace of Mind

This is the most apparent benefit and a major reason to engage in appropriate protection techniques. The guarantee of safety despite the intense wind pressure also leaves you with much-needed peace of mind.

Long-Term Investment

The cost of purchasing and installing either hurricane shutters or impact-resistant windows is substantial. This is especially true when compared to the simple use of tape. However, it is an investment and one that leaves users with benefits in the long term,

For example, there would be very little or no repairs or replacement costs. Additionally, property value can be increased, and insurance premiums lowered.

Conclusion

Protection during hurricanes and natural disasters at large is important. To this end, making the right investment by taking note of the details shared in this article is important and should be seen as such.

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