When it comes to protecting your home from the devastating effects of a hurricane, clear plastic hurricane shutters are a popular choice. These shutters not only provide excellent protection against high winds and flying debris, but they also allow natural light to enter your home, even when they’re closed. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll delve into everything you need to know about clear plastic hurricane shutters, from their benefits and installation process to their maintenance and cost.
The Benefits of Clear Plastic Hurricane Shutters
Clear plastic hurricane shutters, also known as polycarbonate hurricane shutters, offer a multitude of benefits that make them an excellent choice for homeowners living in hurricane-prone areas. Let’s explore these advantages in detail.
Superior Protection
Clear plastic hurricane shutters are designed to withstand the high winds and flying debris that come with hurricanes. They are made from a tough, durable material that can resist impacts from wind-borne debris, providing a strong barrier between your home and the elements.
Moreover, these shutters meet the strict building codes in place in many hurricane-prone areas, ensuring they provide the level of protection required to keep your home safe during a storm.
Light Transmission
Unlike traditional metal or wooden shutters, clear plastic hurricane shutters allow natural light to enter your home. This can be a significant advantage during a storm, as it means you can keep your shutters closed without having to live in darkness.
Furthermore, the clear design of these shutters means you can still enjoy your view, even when the shutters are closed. This can make your home feel more comfortable and less claustrophobic during a storm.
Installing Clear Plastic Hurricane Shutters
Installing clear plastic hurricane shutters is a task that can be undertaken by a professional or a DIY enthusiast with the right tools and knowledge. Here’s a step-by-step guide to the installation process.
Measuring and Ordering
The first step in installing clear plastic hurricane shutters is to measure your windows and doors accurately. These measurements will be used to order your shutters, so it’s crucial they are accurate.
Once you have your measurements, you can order your shutters. It’s important to choose a reputable supplier who uses high-quality materials and offers a warranty on their products.
Installation
Once your shutters arrive, you can begin the installation process. This typically involves attaching the shutters to your home using a track or direct mount system. It’s important to follow the manufacturer’s instructions closely to ensure the shutters are installed correctly and provide the maximum level of protection.
While the installation process can be undertaken by a DIY enthusiast, it’s often a good idea to hire a professional. This ensures the job is done correctly and safely, and can also save you time and effort.
Maintaining Clear Plastic Hurricane Shutters
Like any home improvement product, clear plastic hurricane shutters require regular maintenance to ensure they continue to provide effective protection. Here’s what you need to know about maintaining your shutters.
Cleaning
Clear plastic hurricane shutters should be cleaned regularly to remove dirt and debris. This can be done using a mild detergent and warm water. It’s important to avoid using abrasive cleaners or brushes, as these can scratch the surface of the shutters and reduce their effectiveness.
After cleaning, the shutters should be rinsed thoroughly and dried with a soft cloth to prevent water spots.
Inspection
It’s also important to inspect your shutters regularly for signs of damage or wear. This includes checking the shutters for cracks, checking the mounting hardware for rust or corrosion, and ensuring the shutters open and close smoothly.
If you notice any issues during your inspection, it’s important to address them as soon as possible. This may involve repairing or replacing damaged shutters or hardware.
Cost of Clear Plastic Hurricane Shutters
The cost of clear plastic hurricane shutters can vary widely depending on a number of factors, including the size and number of windows you need to cover, the type of mounting system you choose, and whether you opt for professional installation or do it yourself.
However, despite the initial cost, clear plastic hurricane shutters can be a cost-effective choice in the long run. They are durable and long-lasting, meaning they can provide protection for many years. Furthermore, they can help to reduce your insurance premiums and can increase the value of your home.
In conclusion, clear plastic hurricane shutters are a versatile, effective, and cost-efficient way to protect your home from the damaging effects of a hurricane. By understanding their benefits, installation process, maintenance requirements, and cost, you can make an informed decision about whether they are the right choice for your home.