When hurricane season approaches, one of the most important tasks homeowners face is protecting their homes from potential damage. One effective way to do this is by installing hurricane shutters. While professional installation can be costly, creating your own DIY hurricane shutters can be a cost-effective alternative. This guide will provide you with detailed steps on how to build and install your own hurricane shutters.
Understanding the Importance of Hurricane Shutters
Hurricane shutters play a crucial role in safeguarding your home during a storm. They protect your windows from flying debris, which can cause significant damage and pose a safety risk. Moreover, they prevent wind from entering your home, which can lead to internal pressure build-up and potentially cause your roof to lift.
Additionally, hurricane shutters can help reduce your insurance premiums in some areas, as they are considered a proactive measure in protecting your property. They also add value to your home, making it more appealing to potential buyers in hurricane-prone regions.
Choosing the Right Materials for Your DIY Hurricane Shutters
The choice of material for your DIY hurricane shutters largely depends on your budget, the tools you have available, and your DIY skills. The most common materials used are plywood, metal, and polycarbonate.
Plywood is the most affordable option and is readily available. However, it is not as durable as the other options and may not withstand powerful storms. Metal, particularly aluminum, is more durable and provides better protection. Polycarbonate shutters, while more expensive, are lightweight, transparent, and extremely strong.
Plywood Shutters
When choosing plywood for your hurricane shutters, opt for at least 5/8 inch thick, marine-grade plywood. This type of plywood is more resistant to water damage and is strong enough to provide adequate protection.
Keep in mind that plywood shutters are typically used as a temporary solution and should be installed just before a storm hits. They are not designed for long-term use and can deteriorate if left up for extended periods.
Metal Shutters
Aluminum is the most commonly used metal for hurricane shutters due to its strength and lightweight properties. Aluminum shutters are more durable than plywood and can be left up for the entire hurricane season.
However, working with metal requires more advanced DIY skills and tools. You’ll need to be able to cut the metal to size and drill holes for the mounting hardware. Additionally, metal shutters need to be painted or treated to prevent rust.
Polycarbonate Shutters
Polycarbonate is a type of plastic that is incredibly strong and resistant to impact. It’s also transparent, allowing light to enter your home even when the shutters are closed.
While polycarbonate shutters are the most expensive option, they are also the most durable and can be left up year-round. However, like metal shutters, working with polycarbonate requires specific tools and skills.
Building and Installing Your DIY Hurricane Shutters
Once you’ve chosen your material, the next step is to build and install your shutters. The process will vary slightly depending on the material you’ve chosen, but the basic steps are the same.
First, you’ll need to measure your windows accurately. This will determine the size of your shutters. Remember to add a few inches to each side for the mounting hardware. Next, cut your material to size using the appropriate tools. For plywood and polycarbonate, a circular saw will work. For metal, you’ll need a metal cutting saw.
Once your shutters are cut to size, you can install the mounting hardware. This typically involves drilling holes in the shutters and your home’s exterior and securing the shutters with screws. It’s important to ensure the shutters are securely fastened to withstand high winds.
Maintaining Your DIY Hurricane Shutters
Proper maintenance of your DIY hurricane shutters is crucial to ensure their longevity and effectiveness. This involves regular cleaning, checking for damage, and making necessary repairs.
For plywood shutters, check for signs of water damage or rot and replace as necessary. Metal shutters should be inspected for rust and repainted or treated if needed. Polycarbonate shutters should be cleaned regularly to maintain their transparency and checked for scratches or cracks.
By following these steps, you can create effective, durable DIY hurricane shutters that will protect your home during hurricane season. Remember, the key to successful DIY projects is patience, precision, and safety. Always take the necessary precautions when working with tools and heavy materials.