Residents of North Myrtle Beach are no strangers to the challenges posed by hurricane season. The threat of high winds and severe weather conditions necessitates a robust defense mechanism for homes and businesses alike. In the quest for the most effective hurricane protection, Lexan emerges as a leading solution. This guide delves into the significance of Lexan as a material for hurricane shutters, exploring its benefits, the process of selecting the right Lexan products, and the installation considerations specific to North Myrtle Beach.
Understanding Lexan and Its Advantages
Before diving into the specifics of Lexan as a hurricane protection solution, it’s crucial to grasp what Lexan is and why it stands out among other materials. Lexan is a brand name for a type of polycarbonate resin thermoplastic, known for its incredible strength and durability. Its application in hurricane shutters offers a blend of protection and practicality that is hard to match.
What Makes Lexan Unique?
Lexan distinguishes itself from other materials through its exceptional impact resistance. Unlike traditional glass or even other plastics, Lexan can withstand severe impacts without shattering. This characteristic is particularly valuable in the context of hurricane protection, where flying debris poses a significant risk to windows and doors.
Another noteworthy attribute of Lexan is its lightweight nature. Despite its strength, Lexan is relatively light, making it easier to handle and install compared to heavier alternatives. This aspect is beneficial not only during the installation process but also in terms of the structural load on buildings.
The Benefits of Lexan for Hurricane Protection
The primary advantage of using Lexan for hurricane shutters is its unparalleled protection against wind-borne debris. Its impact resistance ensures that windows and doors remain intact, safeguarding the interior of homes from damage and potential breaches.
Moreover, Lexan is transparent, allowing natural light to enter while still providing protection. This feature is a significant advantage over traditional shutters or plywood, which can leave homes feeling dark and enclosed during a storm.
Lastly, Lexan’s durability extends beyond impact resistance. It is resistant to UV radiation, which means it will not yellow or degrade over time when exposed to sunlight. This longevity makes Lexan an economical choice in the long run, despite its initial cost.
Selecting the Right Lexan Products for Your Home
Choosing the appropriate Lexan hurricane shutters for your property in North Myrtle Beach involves several considerations. The selection process is critical to ensure that the shutters meet the specific needs of your home and comply with local building codes.
Assessing Your Home’s Vulnerability
The first step in selecting Lexan shutters is to evaluate the vulnerability of your home to hurricanes. This assessment includes examining the size and location of windows and doors, as well as the overall structure of your building. Homes closer to the coast or in areas with higher wind speeds may require more robust protection.
It’s also essential to consider the specific wind loads for North Myrtle Beach. Understanding these loads can help in choosing shutters that are engineered to withstand the forces your home may face during a hurricane.
Compliance with Building Codes
In North Myrtle Beach, hurricane shutters must meet specific building codes designed to ensure the safety and resilience of structures in hurricane-prone areas. When selecting Lexan shutters, it’s crucial to verify that the products comply with these codes.
Compliance not only guarantees the effectiveness of the shutters but also ensures that your home is eligible for insurance coverage and meets legal requirements for hurricane protection.
Installation Considerations for Lexan Shutters
Proper installation is key to maximizing the effectiveness of Lexan hurricane shutters. In North Myrtle Beach, where hurricanes are a regular threat, ensuring that shutters are installed correctly can make a significant difference in their performance during a storm.
Professional Installation vs. DIY
While some homeowners may consider installing Lexan shutters themselves, professional installation is highly recommended. Professionals have the expertise and tools necessary to ensure that shutters are mounted securely and in compliance with local building codes.
DIY installations, while potentially cost-saving, carry the risk of improper installation, which can compromise the shutters’ effectiveness and possibly void warranties.
Maintenance and Upkeep
Although Lexan is known for its durability, regular maintenance is essential to maintain its protective qualities. This includes cleaning the shutters to remove dirt and debris, inspecting the fastening systems for signs of wear, and ensuring that moving parts function smoothly.
Proper maintenance not only extends the life of the shutters but also ensures that they will perform optimally when needed most.
Additional Considerations for Lexan Hurricane Shutters
When investing in Lexan hurricane shutters for your property in North Myrtle Beach, there are additional factors to consider to enhance their effectiveness. One crucial aspect is the design of the shutters. Opting for a professional design that takes into account the specific layout of your windows and doors can ensure a precise fit and maximum protection.
Furthermore, considering the aesthetic appeal of the shutters is important, especially for residential properties. Lexan shutters come in various styles and finishes, allowing homeowners to choose options that complement their home’s architecture and design.
Integration with Home Security Systems
Another advanced consideration is integrating Lexan hurricane shutters with your home security system. This integration can provide added peace of mind by allowing you to control the shutters remotely, monitor their status, and receive alerts in case of tampering or damage.
By connecting your hurricane shutters to your security system, you create a comprehensive approach to protecting your home against both natural disasters and potential intruders.
Cost Considerations and Long-Term Savings
While the initial cost of installing Lexan hurricane shutters may seem significant, it’s essential to consider the long-term savings and benefits they offer. Compared to temporary solutions like plywood boarding, Lexan shutters provide lasting protection and durability, reducing the need for frequent replacements.
Additionally, the energy efficiency of Lexan shutters can contribute to lower utility bills over time. By enhancing insulation and reducing heat transfer, these shutters help maintain a comfortable indoor environment, leading to potential savings on heating and cooling costs.
Insurance Premium Reductions
Many insurance companies offer discounts on premiums for homes equipped with hurricane protection measures such as Lexan shutters. By investing in these protective features, homeowners in North Myrtle Beach can not only safeguard their properties but also potentially lower their insurance costs in the long run.
It’s advisable to consult with your insurance provider to understand the specific requirements for premium reductions and ensure that your Lexan shutters meet the necessary criteria.
In conclusion, the comprehensive protection provided by Lexan hurricane shutters makes them a valuable investment for homeowners in North Myrtle Beach. By considering factors such as design, integration with security systems, long-term savings, and insurance benefits, residents can enhance their hurricane preparedness and fortify their properties against the destructive forces of nature.