Protecting sliding glass doors from hurricanes is crucial to prevent damage from high winds, flying debris, and water intrusion. Here’s how to secure your sliding glass doors during a hurricane:
- Install Hurricane Impact-Resistant Doors:
- The most effective way to protect your home is to install hurricane impact-resistant sliding glass doors. These doors are designed to withstand strong winds and flying debris and can provide excellent protection.
- Reinforce Existing Doors:
- If you already have sliding glass doors in place, you can reinforce them to improve their resistance to hurricane conditions. Here’s how:
- Install impact-resistant film: Apply impact-resistant window film to the glass. This film helps hold the glass together in case of impact and can reduce the risk of shattering.
- Reinforce the frame: Strengthen the door frame by adding impact-resistant headers, tracks, and additional bracing if necessary. Consult with a professional for proper reinforcement.
- Upgrade locks and handles: Ensure that the door locks and handles are secure and functioning properly. Reinforce the locking mechanism if needed.
- If you already have sliding glass doors in place, you can reinforce them to improve their resistance to hurricane conditions. Here’s how:
- Use Hurricane Shutters:
- Install hurricane shutters designed specifically for sliding glass doors. These shutters come in various styles, such as accordion, roll-down, or panel shutters, and provide excellent protection. Have them professionally installed for proper coverage and security.
- Plywood Protection:
- If you don’t have hurricane shutters, you can use plywood panels to cover the sliding glass doors. Here’s how:
- Measure the door frame: Measure the dimensions of the door frame, including the height and width.
- Cut plywood panels: Cut plywood panels to fit the dimensions of the door frame, making sure they overlap the frame slightly.
- Attach plywood: Use bolts, wing nuts, or hurricane clips to secure the plywood panels over the glass. Ensure that the plywood covers the entire door and is firmly attached.
- If you don’t have hurricane shutters, you can use plywood panels to cover the sliding glass doors. Here’s how:
- Install Hurricane Fabric Screens:
- Hurricane fabric screens are flexible and lightweight screens made of strong materials that can be quickly deployed over sliding glass doors. They provide protection against wind and debris. Store them in a readily accessible location.
- Regular Maintenance:
- Ensure that the sliding glass door tracks and rollers are well-maintained and functioning correctly. Lubricate the tracks and ensure the door is properly aligned within the tracks.
- Stay Informed:
- Stay informed about hurricane warnings and evacuation orders issued by local authorities. Follow their guidance and take necessary precautions well in advance of the storm.
- Emergency Plan:
- Have an emergency plan in place for your family, including an evacuation plan if necessary. Make sure everyone knows how to secure the sliding glass doors when a hurricane threat arises.
- Trim Trees and Shrubs:
- Trim trees and shrubs near the sliding glass doors to minimize the risk of branches or debris striking the doors during a storm.
Remember that hurricane protection measures should be in place well before a storm approaches. Consult with professionals or experts in hurricane preparedness and safety for guidance specific to your home and location.
