Storm Shutters Minimize Damage

No storm shutter can withstand all hurricane or tornado damage, but all well-made and properly installed shutters can greatly decrease the possibility of damage from flying debris and strong winds. And once the wind gets into the home, water damage and the loss of a roof can soon follow.

Here are some ideas that might help you offer an upgrade to your customers or ease the minds of those already asking about window protection:

Plywood panels probably can be fabricated by your current carpentry or cabinet trade contractor. They are just solid, weatherproof plywood panels that can be stored away until they are needed. Of course, they have to be properly designed so they don't blow off.

Colonial hinged shutters are a good option, and they do add a charm to the look of almost any home. If they are securely installed and well-built, they can offer substantial window protection. They look much nicer than the rollaway shutters, and there are those who believe that if you're going to put shutters on your house, make them look like they work. So why not go all the way and offer shutters that are both decorative and functional?

Metal awnings can be closed during high winds to offer some protection. However, they may be less aesthetically pleasing, and if they are left up during a storm, they can do more harm than good. The awnings should cover the windows completely and have some sort of sturdy lock to be of any value.

Another storm-vulnerable area is the garage door, which has a large area. And most of them are lightly built. Offering heavy-duty garage doors is an option, but there also are storm doors specifically for garage doors.