Using Storm Shutters to Prevent Flood Damage to Wilmington Homes

9/28/2017 (Permalink)

Installing storm shutters is one way of reducing damage to your home during a storm.

Storm Shutter Options for Your Home

North Carolina and Wilmington are no strangers to the great damage wreaked by storms. You cannot prevent a storm from coming, but you can take steps to protect your home from subsequent flood damage and reduce costly repair bills. SERVPRO believes that preventing damage is of paramount importance.

One way of reducing the risk of flood damage to your Wilmington home is installing storm shutters over your windows. Storm shutters protect the glass from the onslaught of hard rain and powerful winds and thus reduce the risk of leaks or, even worse, broken panes. There are several types of storm shutters on the market.

Accordion shutters are fixed beside windows and open out accordion-style to cover them in the event of a storm. Because accordion shutters are a permanent fixture, there is no need to store them, and they are usually easy enough for one person to operate.

Bahama style shutters are louvered units that provide shade and shelter by propping them above the windows. Like accordion styles, Bahama styles are a permanent fixture, and easy to use. On the other hand, they are not as durable as some options, so are not suitable for every home.

Roll-down shutters are lowered either by hand or by pressing a button, depending on the model. Roll-down styles attach above the window, then lower and lock into place when needed. They are pricier than some models but are very strong and also double as a burglary deterrent.

Storm panels are a non-permanent option. The panels are made of corrugated metal for maximum strength, and are put up and bolted into place in times of need. Storm panels are an inexpensive option, and many homeowners like the fact that they are removable when not in use. On the other hand, storm shutters are harder to handle than other models.

Your budget, your needs, and even the look of your home all determine which system is best for you. One thing is for sure, though: In the event of storm damage to your home, SERVPRO is on hand to help. Our IICRC-certified technicians arrive equipped with pumps and extraction tools to rid your home of water, and air movers and dehumidifiers to reduce humidity and restore your home “Like it never even happened.”

For help with flood cleanup in Carolina Beach, Leland, Elizabethtown and surrounding areas, call SERVPRO of New Hanover at (910) 762-8180 today.

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