Prepping Windows for Hurricane Season

When preparing for hurricane season, installing some form of shutters whether it’s plywood or built-in shutters is an important part. However some wonder, ‘what’s the difference between the two?’, ‘it is better to get built-in shutters or can plywood suffice?’. In this article, we break down some of the differences below.

Materials & Durability

The materials for built-in shutters vs plywood differs. Built-in shutters are normally made from metal, aluminium or other durable materials made to withstand storm-force winds or flying branches and other debris.

Plywood can be used to shield windows and can block some of the debris but there is not always a  guarantee as they are not shutters professionally built for purpose. Still, it is a good option for scenarios where you have shorter notice and don’t have time to build the shutters.

Cost

Plywood is cheaper than getting built-in shutters. However, while it might be pricy to install, built-in shutters are usually more durable. Plywood will have greater wear and tear and will usually need to be purchased each hurricane season.

As a result, the purchasing of the plywood over the years might end up being greater than the cost of the built-in shutters.

Convenience

Similar to the point above, with built-in shutters you only need to open and close them during the storm season. Having plywood takes greater time in terms of placing an order in for the wood and getting it installed and removed each season.

On the other side of the coin, as mentioned in the first section, when installed correctly, it can be a quick way to keep your windows safe with short notice.

Appearance

When judging options for aesthetics, naturally having built-in shutters installed will make for a more cohesive look for your home. Plywood will usually be quite bare and may stand out and not match the home.

Whatever the decision at this time, the team at 5 Star are here to help! For more information on our hurricane shutter installations (includes temporary shutter installation, installing plywood and recommendations of what’s right for your home) click here. While the season may not start until June, it is vital to start early! Measurements, ordering materials and installation can take time so it’s best to start well in advance of the season.

This is one of the main things to prepare for leading up to the hurricane season. View our other article which includes a Hurricane Preparedness Checklist for your property, providing some other advice and tips on what to get organised before June.