Steel hurricane panels are lightweight but strong. The 22-gauge steel system can be installed from inside and there is no need for the ladder as the new slide tracks can be used. With the 22-gauge steel panels and the slide tracking system, there is no necessity of wing nuts to fasten the panels. According to the building code, the second floor must be accessible with out ladders. The new 22-gauge steel panels are designed to be used on the second floor windows and doors. They are fixed from inside and there is no need to use a ladder. Manufacturers are making storm and hurricane panels that are tested for the toughest standards in construction such as Dade County, Florida, where the standards are very stringent. According to Gibraltar, their” Galvanized Steel Storm Panel Hurricane Total Envelope Protection System" is building code listed by Metro Dade County. The steel hurricane panels have been tested with a range of fastening hardware for concrete, block, stucco, masonry and wood block constructions. These panels utilize standardized 44", 56", 68", and 86" panel lengths to afford high-wind and impact protection for window and door openings.





According to statistics, the sales of metal roofing products have been on the rise over the last ten years. This is an indication of the confidence of homeowners and builders in the benefits of steel hurricane panels. It is also accepted that steel scores over conventional roofing material. Steel hurricane panel lasts as long as the house itself, keeps water out, survives high winds and sheds snow easily. These steel panels is resistant to fire, mildew and insects. Many companies say their steel panels have a life of 20 to 50 years. Another advantage is that metal roofing is lightweight. It ranges from 50 to 150m pounds per square foot.





Steel hurricane panels are sold in multi-shingle sections or in sheets. These are easy and quick to install. If there is no roof and the storm is on its way, the process of fixing can be shortened and this is a distinct advantage. Single metal shingles of these panels are also available but they require more time to install. There is another advantage with steel panels. They are non-combustible and are classified as the most resistant to fire. The rating of the roofing also depends on the material beneath the surface that could start a fire when ignited. So, for steel hurricane panels applied over a combustible roof like wood may be classified lower. Sunlight is reflected from metals thus radiating heat, reducing midday heat gain. Though the material is itself low in insulation, many systems make use of a dead space between the panels and the rooftop to increase energy efficiency. As these panels expand and contract as they warm and cool, most of the new products come with fastening systems that account for movement. If not, the fasteners that secure the roofing are likely to come loose.