Busting Common Hurricane Shutter Myths: What Every Homeowner Needs to Know to Stay Safe

Hurricane season can create anxiety for homeowners, especially those living in areas prone to storm activity. Misinformation can lead to inadequate preparations, which could put your home and family at risk. Understanding the truth behind common myths can empower you to take the proper safety measures. Let’s explore these myths and clarify what you need to ensure you're ready for severe weather.

Myth 1: “My house faces east or west, so I only need shutters on those sides.”

Hurricane Irma's Path. By the Weather Channel.

Many believe that only certain sides of their house require protection based on the direction it faces. However, hurricanes are rotating cyclones. Once they make landfall, they can spin and shift direction, or even keep the same intensity for long distances, exposing all sides of your property to high winds and debris. Protection should cover every non impact opening — not just one side or one big opening of the house.

To safeguard your entire home, install shutters or impact-resistant windows and doors on all sides. This comprehensive approach protects against flying debris and severe weather conditions, regardless of wind flow direction.

"Hurricane Irma - the path of destruction", by Sky News, is a short documentary depicting the path traveled by Hurricane Irma.

Myth 2: “I live in Central Florida and haven’t had damage before — I’ll be fine.”

Historical Path from all Hurricanes in Florida. By NOAA's Historical Hurricane Tracks App.

Assuming safety based on past experiences can be misleading. Each storm has its own unique path and intensity. According to NOAA, there have been over 60 hurricanes recorded in Florida since 1851, affecting homes even in previously "safe" regions. Take paths for Mathew and Michel, Category 5 Hurricanes, which were very close to land but fortunately never did.

Consistency is key. Regularly review your home insurance policy and ensure it still covers hurricane damage. Develop a robust evacuation plan and identify safe locations to secure your property when storms approach.

Every storm behaves differently, and we will never know the path it will take. Being inland may reduce storm surge risk, but not wind, flying debris, or embedded tornadoes. Luck is not a strategy. One storm can change everything.

Myth 3: “My windows are safe because they’re inside the lanai section.”

While a lanai provides some shelter, it does not guarantee safety from hurricanes. Violent winds can still shatter windows located within these areas. For instance, in Hurricane Irma (2017), homes out of costal areas with non impact glass windows experienced significant damage even in sheltered areas due to remaining high wind speed from a ceasing storm.

To improve safety, consider installing impact windows or certified shutters. Don't rely solely on your lanai or location; comprehensive protection is vital. A lanai structure may offer minimal shielding, but it is still an opened area not rated to withstand hurricane-force winds. Wind can easily tear through screens or lift parts of the structure, exposing your glass to debris and high pressures.

Myth 4: “The homes aside of mine will block the wind.”

Neighboring homes don’t act as shields. All the contrary, wind will funnel within smaller spaces, creating turbulence that increases pressure on your home. If anything, it can worsen the damage in narrow spaces than stopping wind to flow. Assuming close-by homes provide adequate protection is risky. Wind flow can change direction or intensity dramatically during storms.

Ensure every entry point is protected. Use proper window and door coverings to minimize vulnerability to strong winds that could bypass nearby blocks.

Myth 5: “I’ll just protect the glass and leave the doors uncovered.”

Unsecured doors are just as vulnerable as windows during hurricanes. High winds can force doors inward or damage them with flying debris.

Entry doors — especially double doors, French doors, or older units — are highly vulnerable. A failed door can cause catastrophic internal pressure, leading to roof failure or structural damage. All openings must be secured — not just windows.

Install strong storm doors or hurricane door braces to safeguard your entryways. Your doors require the same level of attention as your windows when hurricane preparations begin.

Myth 6: “My door opens outward, so I don’t need protection.”

While outward-opening doors are structurally stronger, they are not impact-rated unless specifically tested and approved. Wind borne debris can still crack, breach, or warp them, compromising your home’s envelope.

The type of door you have does not eliminate the need for protection. Outward-opening doors can actually be more susceptible to damage from strong winds. For example, many

Always invest in protective measures, such as hurricane-rated doors or additional support, to secure every entry point effectively.

Wind safety experts recommend reinforcing all non impact doors with added braces, regardless of the door's opening style, to avoid crack, breach, or warp.

Myth 7: “Shutters look awkward”.

Accordion Shutters Installed by Hurricane Protection Solutions & Blinds.

While concerns about appearance are understandable, the safety of your family should always come first.

Modern hurricane shutters are designed with both function and shape covering in mind. Retractable Shutters can be color-matched to blend with your home’s trim and architectural features, often becoming nearly invisible when in rest. Modern accordion shutters can be noticed until you get in within property range. Roll-down shutters, meanwhile, offer a sleek, minimalist profile when retracted, and accordion shutters take less surface mounting when in rest.

Additionally, what many don’t realize is that accordion and roll-down shutters can outperform impact windows performance. Roll-down systems are mechanically operated and anchor more weight directly into the structure — rated for winds up to 150 mph. Accordion shutters are a lighter design for the wall, and can distribute wind weight across the opening walls and are tested for pressures over 150 mph. They’re not just protective — they’re often the most cost-effective and resilient option, especially for homes with multiple openings.

Matching house or windows accent always look better than matching wall color.

Bottom line: Don’t let appearances put your safety at risk. Today’s shutter systems are built to blend in — and built to last.

Explore an exterior appeal while keeping it safe from storms. As long as you do it with the pros, your installation will match your home appearance.

Myth 8: “I’ll just choose one product for the whole house.”

Home with accordion shutters on second floor, and non deployed hurricane panels on first floor.

Choosing only one type of hurricane protection might seem simpler, but it’s not always the most cost-effective approach — and combining systems can save you hundreds of dollars while improving overall safety and ease of deployment.

Think Smart — Mix Strategically:

• Panels on first floor small windows or units rarely used but easy to carry and place.

• Accordion shutters on wide openings, long patios, and two-story houses and above.

• Roll-down shutters, strictly hard-to-reach areas from the exterior, like two story picture windows.

By combining these systems, you not only protect your entire home — you also optimize your budget without wasting more than needed, and keep safe while deploying your units.

Take Action to Protect Your Home

Hurricanes are a reality for all of us, but they don't have to result in a bigger disaster. By confronting these common myths and preparing effectively, you can safeguard your property and loved ones.

Remember to secure all aspects of your home, select appropriate protective measures, and never underestimate the potential impact of storms based on past luck and misleading bias. Staying informed and well-prepared can significantly lower your risks during hurricane season. Prioritize safety, stay vigilant, and keep your home secure!