Why You Should Never Use Tape on Windows to Protect Against Storms: The Ultimate Guide.
It is a common misconception that taping windows can prevent them from shattering during a storm. On the contrary, this practice can be even more dangerous.
Why You Should Never Use Tape on Windows to Prevent Storm Damage
During strong winds and storms, it is a common misconception that applying tape in an X formation or a grid pattern across windows will reinforce them and prevent shattering. However, this is not effective.
Taping windows has little effect in storm protection.
According to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), taping windows is a waste of time, effort, and tape. It neither strengthens the glass nor prevents it from breaking.
Additionally, if the glass shatters during a severe storm, the tape will cause the shards to stick together, creating a hazardous situation.
How to Actually Protect Your Windows During a Storm
– Keep windows closed during a storm
It is advisable to keep all windows closed when facing strong winds and storms. Contrary to some beliefs, opening windows will not reduce pressure differences between the inside and outside of your home. Instead, keeping windows closed will prevent the storm’s impact from entering your home.
– Use plywood to shield windows
Plywood can be used to reinforce windows from the outside.
Plywood is a durable building material that can be used to protect your windows. Cut plywood to fit your window sizes, and use screws, bolts, and expansion bolts to secure them to the walls (not the window frames) before the storm hits.
– Install storm shutters
To further reinforce your windows, consider installing wooden shutters on the outside. These shutters should be firmly attached to the window frames and walls to withstand strong winds and heavy rain.
If your home is in an area prone to strong winds, consider placing sandbags or heavy objects like bricks or stones in front of windows. This temporary solution can help reduce potential damage by deflecting some of the wind’s force.
Frequently asked questions
Using tape on windows during storms is ineffective and potentially dangerous. Tape does not provide any structural support to the glass and can give a false sense of security. In the event of high winds or flying debris, taped windows can still shatter, sending sharp shards of glass everywhere. The tape itself can also fail, peel off, or even explode due to the pressure difference, causing further risk.
There are several effective alternatives to consider. One option is to invest in hurricane shutters, which are permanent fixtures designed to protect your windows from flying debris and wind pressure. Another solution is to use plywood, which can be cut to fit your windows and secured with screws or a hurricane clip system. Both options provide a much stronger barrier against storms compared to tape.
In addition to installing hurricane shutters or plywood, there are a few other measures you can take. Ensure your windows are properly caulked and sealed to prevent water intrusion. Consider applying a window film, which can help hold shattered glass together and reduce the risk of injury. Keep trees and branches trimmed near your windows to minimize the chance of debris impacting your home.
Some people believe that taping an ‘X’ on the window provides extra strength, but this is not true. Taping an ‘X’ or any other pattern does not offer any additional protection and is purely cosmetic. Another misconception is that taping windows is a quick, easy, and affordable solution, but as discussed, it can be dangerous and provide a false sense of security.
The best approach is a combination of measures. In addition to securing your windows, ensure your roof is in good condition and consider reinforcing your garage door, as it is a common point of failure during storms. Have a plan to remove or secure any outdoor items that could become projectiles, such as furniture, potted plants, or decorative items. Finally, stay informed and follow the advice of local authorities and weather services.
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