South Florida is one of the most vulnerable parts of the US that get affected by hurricanes originating in the Caribbean. Hence, South Florida hurricane shutter has become an essential requirement. Twenty Florida counties have been included in the Federal Emergency management Agency (FEMA). They include, Lee, Martin, Miami-Dade, Monroe, Okeechobee, Osceola, Palm Beach, Polk, St. Lucie, Sarasota, DeSoto and Indian River. Hurricane shutter has to be deployed in al these affected areas in order to provide protection to the people and their property.
Hurricane shutters provide protection to you and your material. It is expected that the South Florida hurricane shutters withstand 110 mph requirement and also the ASCE-88 that increases the wind load standard. FEMA recommends that professionally made shutters must be installed. They must be able to withstand winds up to 120 mph and more. You can also install self-built hurricane shutters if you have the knowledge. These shutters must cover all the possible openings like the windows, doors, sliding glass and be able to function smoothly. While deploying the South Florida hurricane shutter, you have to follow the instructions carefully. The shutters have to meet the Dade County standards and SBCCI standards. This is an essential condition because your insurance company is going to insist on this requirement. First, you find from the building official if it is necessary to obtain a building permit. Then keep the shutters ready and start the job.
Among the different types of hurricane shutters, the impact resistant windows with polycarbonate or a sandwich of plastic and glass are cheaper. But, both the window and the frame have to be discharged. However, they will also provide excellent protection when you are away from home. South Florida hurricane shutters protect your home and property from intruders and burglars. They will be expensive to replace after they are hit by flying debris in a significant hurricane. Some of the shutters particularly those made from plywood do not meet the building specifications. Steel and aluminum shutters are durable and are of good value. Shutters made of plywood do not meet the standards that they set aside for the younger generation. Steel and aluminum shutters are strong and do not rust and are coated. They are light in weight and are easy to install and remove.