The Truth About Hurricane Protection: What You NEED to Know

by Eduardo Roman on Aug 28, 2014

Hi everyone, Harry Cane here, AHT’s resident hurricane protection specialist. With storm season approaching, it’s time to separate fact from fiction. Let’s debunk some common misconceptions and ensure your home is truly ready.

Myth 1: “My house is new, so it’s hurricane-proof.”

Reality Check: Even recently built homes may have vulnerabilities. A thorough assessment of your windows, doors, and roof construction is essential regardless of your home’s age.

Myth 2: “DIY hurricane prep is just as good.”

Reality Check: While some prep tasks are DIY-friendly, the installation of hurricane protection systems requires specialized knowledge and experience. In many counties, inspectors must inspect the installation to ensure it adheres to local building regulations. In unincorporated Lee County and in Collier County, for example, installing shutters or storm screening on a home requires a building permit, and the application lists each product’s Florida Product Approval number (its listing in the state’s product approval system) or its Miami-Dade Notice of Acceptance number. Improperly installed systems can not only lead to multiple costly inspections, but most importantly increase the chance of damage to your home during a storm.

White roll-down shutter closed over a front door, vent row near the top, potted evergreens — A white roll-down shutter installed over a front entry, shown fully closed.

Myth 3: “The highest wind rating is ALWAYS the best.”

Reality Check: Don’t overspend based solely on wind ratings. The optimal protection for your home depends on specific openings, risk factors, and your budget. Reputable companies will tailor solutions, not push unnecessary upgrades.

Myth 4: “Impact windows mean I don’t need anything else.”

Reality Check: Impact windows offer excellent protection but may not be feasible for your entire home. A comprehensive approach, combining different hurricane protection systems strategically, is often the most effective AND cost-efficient. Our guide to building your home’s hurricane defense plan walks through that layered approach.

Black framed sliding glass door and tall side window on white stucco, pool cage reflected — A black framed impact sliding glass door and tall side window on a white stucco home.

Myth 5: “Shopping around is all about the lowest price.”

Reality Check: Price is a factor, but quality and long-term support matter too. Inquire about warranties, installation expertise, and the company’s commitment to customers after the sale is made.

Myth 6: “Once I have hurricane protection, I’m set.”

Reality Check: Even the strongest shutters and impact windows require regular maintenance to function at their best when it counts. That’s why AHT offers maintenance and repair service for shutters and screens: preparedness is an ongoing commitment.

Six myths and reality checks: new homes still need an assessment, DIY prep is not the same as professional installation under a permit, the highest wind rating is not always best, impact windows alone are not a full plan, the lowest price is not everything, and protection needs regular maintenance — The six myths in this article and the reality check for each one.

Harry’s Pro Tip: Protection is an Investment. Maintain It!

Properly installed hurricane shutters or screens can serve you for years, but like any major system, they need regular care to ensure they function when it counts. Neglecting small issues can lead to costly repairs or even failure during a storm. That’s where AHT’s maintenance and repair service comes in. Our expert technicians keep your hurricane protection systems in peak condition. Your warranty can depend on it, too: the written AHT Limited Warranty calls for maintenance by an authorized dealer every 6 months for homes within 1 mile of water and once a year otherwise.

Regular maintenance for shutters and screens includes:

Debris removal from shutter tracks, channels, and housings.
Lubrication of tracks and end locks for smooth operation.
Motor checks and limit adjustments.
Comprehensive shutter performance tests.
Replacement of remote batteries as needed.

Stucco side wall with a white roll-down shutter housing above a window, shutter rolled up — A roll-down shutter housing and side guides above a window, the parts a maintenance visit clears of debris and lubricates.

Request maintenance or repair or call (239) 251-0856 to learn more and get a personalized quote.

The AHT Difference: Honesty in Action

At AHT, we understand that hurricane preparedness is an ongoing journey. If you’re considering new protection or maximizing the lifespan of your existing systems, we’re here to help:

A free, no-pressure in-home consultation to identify potential weak points.
A full range of top-quality products to fit your needs and budget: hurricane screens, roll-down shutters, accordion shutters, Bahama screens and impact windows and doors.
Expert installation by our own crews, and maintenance and repair service to ensure your protection is always ready.

Products in this article

Hurricane ScreensCustom roll-down storm screens made in Fort Myers. Free in-home quote.

Roll-Down ShuttersAluminum shutters that roll up into a housing above the opening. Free in-home quote.

Accordion ShuttersPermanent shutters that stack beside the opening and close by hand. Free in-home quote.

Impact Windows and DoorsImpact windows and sliding glass doors, with nothing to close before a storm. Free in-home quote.

Don’t let myths compromise your safety. Book your free in-home consultation or call (239) 251-0856 for expert guidance, and head into storm season with confidence. We measure each opening and explain your options.

Advanced Hurricane Technology · FL Lic. CBC1258522 | SCC131153977

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