Window protection: What to know

When searching for window protection, the International Hurricane Protection Association says to look for shutters and windows classified as “hurricane protection products.”

There are various types of window protections.

If you choose shutters, they must be installed by a licensed contractor with a permit.

Make sure to get a final inspection on the shutters from the city or county building department before heading into hurricane season.

• Accordion shutters — Folding, permanent shutters that slide into installed tracks to protect windows and doors. These work well to protect sliding glass doors and condos, and require no storage.

• Roll-down shutters —Electric or hand-cranked shutters slide vertically to cover windows and doors. These work well for windows with no outside access. Easy and quick when preparing your home for a storm.

• Storm panels — Vertical shutters that can be stored in a stack and are installed at the time of the storm.

• Window film — Window film isn’t a substitute for shutters. It doesn’t protect your home from flying debris. A window frame with only film installed may not resist the impact of hurricane debris and could collapse if hit.

• Plywood — Plywood doesn’t provide the best protection for your home and most plywood shutters don’t meet current building code or insurance industry standards. Use them as a last resort. No insurance discounts are offered if you use plywood shutters. If not secured well, they can become flying objects and aren’t effective in protecting sliding glass doors and big windows. Installation can be time-consuming and difficult.

—International Hurricane Protection Association