WHAT'S NEW AND MORE TIPS
http://www.storm99.com
LAMINATED GLASS
Impact-resistant glass uses a layer of PVB (polyvinyl butyral)
laminated between two layers of glass (similar to a car
windshield).
"Like anything else, the laminated glass is part of a recipe
- it goes into the window and the window has to pass the
test," said consultant Paul Beers of Glazing Consultants
Inc. in Palm Beach Gardens, Fla. Because laminated glass windows
cost up to double a regular window, it is an expensive protection
for existing homes. "The cost of window with laminated glass
is about equal to a window plus shutter," Beers said.
Impact-resistant film can be applied to existing windows, but the
applied film does not meet the new hurricane-protection testing
standards.
DURAFRAME WINDOW JAMB SYSTEM
This custom system creates a frame to house the window
(homeowners' choice) and hurricane panel. Removable hurricane
panels slip into the frame and screw in place, without
interfering with the architecture.
The lightweight panels are made of a patented composite that
includes Fiberglas. Owner Jim Fullwood said he came up with the
idea because shutterscan ruin a home's architecture. Storage can
be a problem, but the firm offers a cabinet of the same
lightweight composite that can hang from garage ceilings. mes,
but the West Palm Beach, Fla., firm is developing a retrofit
system for existing homes.
GARAGE DOORS
If you don't protect your garage door, you've missed the largest
opening in your house. If you don't have a wind-loaded garage
door, you can buy vertical support bars. Cost is about $300 for a
single door, $500-$600 for a double door.
FRONT DOORS
Experts say the knob, deadbolt and doorjamb won't keep out winds.
They suggest adding bolts at the top and bottom.
INTERIOR DOORS
Create a safe room. Determine where your family would take cover.
The interior room should offer some ventilation (but no windows)
and should have a solid door.
SHEDS
Tie down sheds, swing sets, fountains - use straps or rope and
attach to anchors secured (if possible) in concrete or buried
deep in the ground.
Go to the Emergency
Preparedness Information page, on to Preparing
Your Horses and Large Animals, or back to Preparing Your Boat.