Protecting Your Home with Storm Panels: What You Need to Know
When hurricane season approaches, protecting your home from severe weather becomes a top priority. Storm panels are one of the most effective and affordable options for safeguarding your windows and doors against the high winds and flying debris associated with hurricanes. In this blog post, we’ll cover everything you need to know about storm panels, including their benefits, types, and installation tips, to help you make an informed decision about protecting your home.
1. What are storm panels?
Protective barriers
Storm panels are sturdy, removable barriers designed to cover windows and doors, shielding them from the destructive forces of hurricanes and tropical storms. These panels act as a first line of defense, preventing high winds, flying debris, and driving rain from breaking glass or damaging openings in your home. Commonly made from strong materials like aluminum, steel, or polycarbonate, storm panels are engineered to meet hurricane wind pressure standards and are tested to withstand impact from large debris.
Cost-effective protection
One of the biggest advantages of storm panels is their affordability compared to other hurricane protection solutions. While impact-resistant windows or roll-down shutters can cost significantly more, storm panels offer similar protection at a fraction of the price. This makes them an excellent choice for budget-conscious homeowners who still want reliable protection during hurricane season without making a permanent or high-cost investment.
Reusable and durable
Storm panels are built to last for many years if properly maintained. Unlike disposable or one-time-use solutions, these panels can be installed and removed multiple times over many hurricane seasons. With careful handling, regular inspections, and correct storage when not in use, storm panels retain their strength and effectiveness year after year, providing peace of mind and long-term value.
2. Types of storm panels
Aluminum storm panels
Description: Aluminum panels are the most popular choice thanks to their lightweight yet strong construction. They are resistant to rust and corrosion, making them ideal for coastal areas where salt air can cause damage to other metals.
Benefits: Their light weight makes them easy to handle, install, and remove—even for a single homeowner. Aluminum panels are also reusable and compact for storage, offering a practical solution that balances protection and convenience.
Steel storm panels
Description: Steel panels are heavier and thicker than aluminum, providing maximum strength and durability. They are often chosen for homes in high-risk hurricane zones where extreme winds and flying debris are more likely.
Benefits: The added weight and strength of steel make these panels exceptionally resistant to impact. While they may require more effort to install and remove, they offer unparalleled protection and can last for decades with proper maintenance.
Polycarbonate storm panels
Description: Unlike metal panels, polycarbonate panels are made from clear, durable plastic that is highly impact-resistant. They combine strength with visibility, allowing natural light to enter even when installed.
Benefits: These panels maintain a level of visibility during a storm, so homeowners can still see outside while staying protected. They also keep interiors brighter, which can reduce the feeling of being “closed in” during a hurricane.
3. Installation tips
Measure your windows and doors
Taking precise measurements of each window and door opening is essential to ensure that storm panels fit securely. Poorly fitted panels can fail during a storm, so double-check all dimensions before ordering or cutting panels to size.
Professional installation vs. DIY
Many homeowners choose to install storm panels themselves, which can save money if you’re handy and follow manufacturer instructions carefully. However, professional installation ensures that panels are mounted correctly, hardware is aligned properly, and everything meets local building codes—providing extra assurance that your home is ready for hurricane season.
Permanent mounting hardware
Storm panels typically require permanent hardware, such as tracks, bolts, or anchors, to be installed on your home. These fixtures remain in place year-round and allow you to quickly attach the panels when a storm approaches. It’s important to inspect this hardware regularly for signs of rust, wear, or loosening to maintain their reliability.
Label and store your panels
After hurricane season ends, remove and clean the panels, then label each one with its corresponding opening to make reinstallation easier next time. Store them in a dry, protected area to prevent corrosion, warping, or damage between uses.
Inspect and maintain your panels
Before each hurricane season, check your panels for dents, cracks, rust, or any other damage. Repair or replace damaged panels promptly to ensure your home remains fully protected during the next storm.
4. Benefits of storm panels
High level of protection
Storm panels create a strong physical barrier between your home and the forces of nature. They effectively shield windows and doors from windborne debris, heavy rain, and high-pressure winds, helping prevent broken glass, water intrusion, and even structural damage. This level of protection is crucial in minimizing costly repairs and keeping your home and family safe.
Versatility
Available in multiple materials, sizes, and configurations, storm panels can be customized to suit a wide range of homes and needs. Whether you have standard-sized windows, sliding glass doors, or custom openings, there’s a storm panel option that can be adapted to fit perfectly, ensuring comprehensive coverage.
Compliance with building codes
Many local building codes in hurricane-prone areas require homes to have some form of approved hurricane protection. Storm panels often meet or exceed these requirements, giving homeowners confidence that their property is in compliance and better protected during inspections or insurance evaluations.
Reusability
Storm panels offer long-term value thanks to their reusability. Unlike plywood or other temporary solutions, storm panels can be used season after season, provided they are stored and maintained properly. This makes them a cost-efficient choice that delivers reliable protection year after year without the need for frequent replacement.
Frequently asked questions
Are storm panels approved for use in Florida’s hurricane zones?
Yes. When installed according to code, storm panels meet state requirements for wind-borne debris protection.
Can I install storm panels myself?
Yes, but professional installation is recommended for optimal safety and compliance with local codes.
How do I store storm panels off-season?
Label them by location, stack in a dry place, and protect them from moisture or pests.
Do storm panels block out light completely?
Steel and aluminum panels do, but polycarbonate panels allow natural light while still offering protection.
Contact RollShield for a free consultation
Protect your home before the storm hits. Storm panels are one of the most reliable and affordable ways to shield your windows and doors during hurricane season.
➡️ Contact RollShield for a free consultation
For expert advice and installation, schedule a consultation today. Our specialists will help you find the best solution to protect your home and family.
📞 Call us at (727) 451-7665 | 🌐 Visit RollShield.com