Hurricane season can bring devastating storms that threaten the safety of homes and families, making effective hurricane protection crucial. Over the years, the methods used to protect homes from hurricane damage have evolved significantly. This blog will explore the history of hurricane protection, highlighting the transition from outdated methods like plywood to the modern shutters and impact screens that provide superior defense today.
For decades, plywood was the go-to solution for homeowners looking to shield their windows and doors from storm damage. In the wake of a hurricane warning, many would scramble to nail sheets of plywood over their windows, hoping to minimize the risk of broken glass and wind damage. While this method offered some protection, it came with several drawbacks:
1. Time-Consuming Installation
Nailing plywood onto windows was labor-intensive, requiring homeowners to invest significant time and effort, especially during the frantic hours leading up to a storm.
2. Limited Protection
Plywood can only provide a certain level of defense. It may prevent glass breakage from wind-borne debris, but it does not offer comprehensive protection against strong winds, rain intrusion, or structural failure.
3. Lack of Aesthetic Appeal
Covering windows with plywood is not visually appealing, and many homeowners found it disheartening to have their homes look unkempt or foreboding during storm season.
Recognizing the need for more effective and user-friendly solutions, manufacturers began to develop modern hurricane shutters in the late 20th century. These advancements transformed the way homeowners approach hurricane protection:
1. Types of Shutters
Various types of hurricane shutters are now available, including Bahama shutters, Colonial shutters, accordion shutters, and motorized roll-down shutters. Each type offers unique advantages, from aesthetic appeal to ease of use, allowing homeowners to choose the best option for their needs.
2. Improved Durability
Modern shutters are designed to withstand extreme weather conditions. Constructed from materials like aluminum and reinforced polycarbonate, they provide superior protection against flying debris and high winds, often exceeding the standards set by building codes.
3. Quick and Convenient Operation
Unlike plywood, which requires manual installation, many modern shutters can be quickly deployed with minimal effort. Motorized roll-down shutters can be activated with the push of a button, allowing for fast protection without the hassle of manual labor.
4. Enhanced Safety and Security
Modern hurricane shutters not only protect windows but also improve home security by creating a barrier against potential break-ins. They offer homeowners peace of mind during storms and year-round.
The transition from plywood to modern hurricane shutters represents a significant leap in hurricane protection technology. Here’s why homeowners should invest in these advanced systems:
1. Reliability
Modern shutters are rigorously tested for performance and durability. Unlike plywood, which can warp or break under pressure, hurricane shutters are built to last and provide reliable protection.
2. Lower Long-Term Costs
While the initial investment for modern shutters may be higher than plywood, they save money in the long run. Their durability means less frequent repairs or replacements, and they may even lead to lower insurance premiums due to increased home protection.
3. Curb Appeal
Modern shutters come in a variety of styles and colors, allowing homeowners to enhance their property’s aesthetics while ensuring safety. Options like Bahama and Colonial shutters add a decorative touch that plywood simply cannot match.
4. Ease of Use
With the convenience of modern shutter systems, homeowners can prepare for storms quickly and easily, giving them more time to focus on family and safety rather than scrambling for tools and materials.
As hurricane protection continues to evolve, it’s clear that modern shutters offer a far superior option compared to outdated methods like plywood. With their blend of durability, convenience, and aesthetic appeal, hurricane shutters from Lafferty Hurricane Protection provide essential defense for homes in hurricane-prone areas.
Don’t leave your home vulnerable to the next storm. Contact Lafferty Hurricane Protection today to explore our range of hurricane shutter solutions and ensure your family’s safety for years to come.
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Great company and quality work!
Great price and great work. Am very happy with the business.
Great price and the installation technician did an outstanding job.
"We are very satisfied with our new fence and work done by Lafferty Aluminum. Quality, professionalism, and reliability working with Lafferty has been very good and I am happy we chose them."
"Lafferty was one of the easiest and smoothest company's to work with. We are building our home and these guys were so customer friendly, answered all our questions, was available to take our call if we had questions."
"Friendly service, professional attitude of employee, polite and they cleaned up as they worked. We had our pool enclosed redone after hurricane damage and now it looks great. Thanks"
"Lafferty did a fantastic job from start to finish on the patio pavers and aluminum screening. They completed the project on time, and perhaps even a little ahead of schedule!"
"I couldn't be happier with the work performed by Lafferty. They replaced my original screen house in February in a professional and timely manner. I would highly recommend them for your screen enclosure needs."
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