07.18.10
Plywood…is it worth it?
With the first named storm of the season just officially behind us many of us up here in Florida are breathing a sigh of relief. If you were wondering what to do if that track would have brought the storm closer to home than you’re not alone. Thousands of homeowners likely had the same questions.
If you thought you’d just run out and get some plywood to protect your home or business than you might have been taking a huge risk. Although popular, plywood doesn’t offer the protection that most homeowners wish for. It can warp when it becomes wet and it shouldn’t be used for an opening larger than 4’ x 8’, like some doorways. Even ½” thick plywood can be penetrated causing glass to break and the home to be compromised. Furthermore, insurance companies won’t count plywood as storm protection. That means no insurance discounts for wind mitigation.
Sure there are some advantages to plywood. It’s relatively cheap, although it needs to be replaced more often than real shutters, and it can be installed by most homeowners. Here is another problem though, many homeowners don’t install it correctly (not anchored properly). Along with that plywood can be heavy and hard to move and if there are any second floor openings, it becomes difficult and dangerous to install. Even the perceived advantages are not all that great.
Before it’s too late check out the options for real storm protection. It is probably cheaper than you think and in the long run can save you money as you collect insurance discounts and preserve your biggest investment. Look here for detailed descriptions of our storm protection products: http://www.coastalstormshutters.com/products.htm