In the recent times we have been witnessing a spurt in the number and intensity of hurricanes in the Caribbean region. This has led to a new focus on the issue of preparedness. It is true that there is an improvement in the matter of forecast, though there is much to be done. Now, the question is, even if the resident is aware of the imminent arrival of the hurricane, responding to the menace posed by the approaching hurricane is very important. One of the issues is the danger with sub-standard housing. This is where storm panel shutters assume significance. For mobile homes and huts, no amount of protection will be helpful as by their very nature they are vulnerable to the fury of hurricane.



Even well built houses require additional the protection of storm panel shutters. However, without these shutters, considerable damage might be experienced, even if the main building is not affected. It has been agreed that well-designed shutters can reduce the possible damage to a large extent. There are a number of commercially available storm panel shutters for protection from hurricanes. These shutters are constructed from aluminum alloy, polycarbonate and steel. Some of these shutters use aluminum alloy 6063-T5, extruded and treated for strength. These shutters incorporate a Header and Sill track to permit ease of installation and removal. Among the polycarbonate panel shutters, Lexan storm panel shutters are very popular. Lexan is a polycarbonate made by GE. It is very clear and works in combination with aluminum panel shutters. The advantage is that it allows for visibility. The combination has to be confined to one Lexan panel shutter to four aluminum panel shutters. Lexan storm panel shutters are approved by Dade County and SBCCI for outdoor use.



Aluminum panel shutters are manufactured as per Dade County 1994 Edition of South Florida Building Code for large missile attacks and minimum wind pressures of up to 68 pounds per square foot, equivalent to more than 150 mph. Aluminum storm panel shutters are relatively inexpensive and easy to install and operate. Aluminum panels are generally available in thicknesses of 0.040”, 0.050”, and 0.063”. These panel shutters can slip into the upper header track and fasten to the lower track with washer-based wingnuts. They can also be directly attached to the walls without tracks by installing a concrete anchor and stainless screws.



Steel hurricane shutters are as strong as aluminum panel shutters. Steel panels are also being manufactured to meet the Dade County standards. There are many companies that manufacture steel panels such as Eastern Metal. Their products comply with Dade County, SBCCI, TDI and Monroe County Building Codes. As members of American Shutter Systems Association, many of these companies are associated with the research, development and testing of products to ensure that they come out with excellent quality. Storm panel shutters come in different models like Bahama shutters, Accordion shutters and Roll-up Shutters.