Does Taping Windows Help in a Hurricane?
You see them every hurricane season: Florida homes with Xs taped over their windows. You might even see them in your own neighborhood, or you’ve taped up your windows in the past. However, does taping windows actually help in a hurricane? Or is it just a myth? Despite what even the most seasoned Floridian might tell you, taping up your home’s windows doesn’t actually help in a hurricane; in fact, it could make things worse.
What Actually Happens When You Tape Your Windows
If your windows are not designed to withstand the impact of hurricanes, not even the strongest of tape will keep them intact during severe weather. If flying debris crashes into a window that is “reinforced” with tape, that window will shatter into larger, potentially life-threatening, shards of glass, according to the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA). If a window breaks, it’s better if it shatters into smaller pieces of glass that won’t cause serious injury.
Ditch the Tape—Invest in Impact Windows Instead
Rather than waste tape or risk bodily injury, invest in impact windows that are designed to withstand severe weather. For example, impact windows from Max Guard Hurricane Windows are High Velocity Hurricane Zone rated and come with special features to help keep your home safe. You’ll have options such as:
- Incredibly strong aluminum frames with a slim design so as not to undermine your home’s appearance
- Vinyl frames reinforced by a strong seal to prevent the glass from separating from the frame
- Hybrid frames with a high Design Pressure rating of 100, meaning the impact window is exceptionally wind and water resistant
Our windows are also available in a wide selection of colors and styles so you can select the ideal features to match the unique look of your home.
Tried-and-True Hurricane Windows from Professional Installers
At Max Guard Hurricane Windows, we specialize in providing hurricane-rated impact windows that are installed by our factory-trained technicians. If you’d like to have real peace of mind during hurricane season, put down the tape and contact Max Guard Hurricane Windows today. We’ll be glad to schedule a free consultation so you can learn more about our remarkable impact windows.