When hurricane season arrives in South Florida, homeowners are often faced with the daunting task of protecting their properties from the intense winds, rain, and debris these storms bring. Traditional hurricane protection solutions like plywood, shutters, and impact windows have been the go-to options for many years. However, recent advancements have given rise to a more effective and versatile solution: hurricane screens. In this blog, we’ll explore five key benefits of hurricane screens over other traditional protection methods and highlight the quality brands we offer at Awning Stars, including Atlas Armor and Progressive Screens.
1. Superior Impact Resistance and Flexibility
One of the most significant benefits of hurricane screens over other protection options, such as plywood and shutters, is their exceptional impact resistance combined with flexibility. Hurricane screens are made from high-strength, durable materials like Kevlar or polyester, reinforced with PVC. This composition allows the screens to absorb and dissipate the energy from flying debris more effectively than rigid materials.
Brands like Atlas Armor provide hurricane screens that are rigorously tested to meet or exceed stringent building codes, ensuring they can withstand impacts from debris traveling at high speeds. Unlike plywood, which can break or splinter, hurricane screens maintain their structural integrity, reducing the risk of injury or further property damage.
2. Enhanced Visibility and Natural Light
Traditional hurricane protection methods like metal shutters and plywood often create a “closed-in” feeling, blocking natural light and visibility. This can lead to a sense of confinement and darkness inside the home during a storm, which is particularly stressful when power outages occur.
Hurricane screens, such as those offered by Progressive Screens, provide a unique advantage in this regard. Their transparent design allows natural light to filter through while still offering robust protection against storm damage. This means you can keep an eye on what’s happening outside without sacrificing safety or comfort. The added visibility reduces the anxiety of being shut in during a storm and can even help detect potential hazards like flooding or falling debris in real time.
3. Easy Deployment and Storage
One of the most significant drawbacks of traditional hurricane shutters and plywood boards is the effort required to install and remove them. They can be heavy, cumbersome, and time-consuming to handle, especially when a storm is approaching, and time is of the essence. Furthermore, storing these bulky materials can be a challenge, taking up valuable space in your garage or shed.
Hurricane screens, on the other hand, are incredibly lightweight and easy to deploy. Systems from Atlas Armor and Progressive Screens are designed with convenience in mind, offering motorized or manual options for quick setup. The screens roll up compactly when not in use, taking up minimal storage space. This ease of use is particularly beneficial for elderly homeowners or those with physical limitations who may struggle with traditional methods.
4. Cost-Effective Solution with Long-Term Value
Investing in hurricane protection can be a significant expense, and many homeowners are concerned about the cost-benefit ratio. While impact windows and metal shutters offer solid protection, they can be expensive to purchase and install, and repairs can add up over time. Plywood, while cheap initially, often needs to be replaced after each storm due to water damage, warping, or breakage.
Hurricane screens offer a more cost-effective solution. Brands like Progressive Screens and Atlas Armor manufacture high-quality screens that are built to last, providing a durable, reusable option for many years to come. The initial investment is generally lower than that of impact windows or premium shutters, and because they are less likely to incur damage during a storm, the cost of repairs is minimal. Additionally, many insurance companies offer premium discounts for homes equipped with certified hurricane protection screens, adding further value to your investment.
5. Aesthetically Pleasing and Versatile Designs
Let’s face it: traditional hurricane shutters and plywood boards can be an eyesore, detracting from your home’s curb appeal. Impact windows, while visually unobtrusive, are a permanent fixture and can alter the architectural style of your home. Hurricane screens, however, provide a sleek, modern appearance that blends seamlessly with your home’s existing design.
Brands like Atlas Armor and Progressive Screens offer a variety of screen options to match different architectural styles and homeowner preferences. The screens are available in different colors and finishes, allowing you to choose a look that complements your home’s exterior. Additionally, because they are retractable, hurricane screens can be discreetly stored away when not in use, maintaining your home’s aesthetic appeal year-round.
Why Choose Awning Stars for Your Hurricane Screen Needs?
At Awning Stars, we specialize in providing the best hurricane protection solutions in South Florida. As authorized dealers for Atlas Armor and Progressive Screens, we offer top-of-the-line hurricane screens that combine state-of-the-art technology with unmatched durability. Our team of experts is dedicated to helping you choose the right solution for your home, ensuring you have peace of mind when the next storm rolls in.
Atlas Armor: Unmatched Strength and Durability for Hurricane Protection
Atlas Armor specializes in producing hurricane screens made from high-strength, impact-resistant materials designed to withstand the toughest conditions, meeting and exceeding Miami-Dade County’s stringent standards for hurricane protection. Their screens are engineered with a unique, patent-pending design that allows for easy deployment and storage, providing homeowners with a seamless blend of protection and convenience. Atlas Armor hurricane screens utilize a blend of Aramid and polyester to bring you unmatched defense against any storm.
Progressive Screens: Innovative Design and Technology for Ultimate Safety
Progressive Screens offers a range of innovative, motorized screen systems that combine advanced technology with aesthetic appeal. Their screens not only provide robust defense against high winds and flying debris but also maintain visibility and natural light, enhancing both safety and comfort during a storm. Both brands are committed to delivering high-quality, durable solutions that offer homeowners peace of mind and protection without sacrificing style or functionality. With year round protection that also offers defense against insects, UV rays, privacy protection, glare, and heavy winds, Progressive’s defender hurricane screens are best in class ensuring year-round protection—alongside hurricane defense rated beyond 156mph winds.
Conclusion
When it comes to protecting your home during hurricane season, making the right choice is crucial. Hurricane screens provide several advantages over traditional protection methods, from superior impact resistance and enhanced visibility to ease of deployment and cost-effectiveness. They offer an aesthetically pleasing and versatile solution that enhances both your home’s safety and its appearance.
Investing in hurricane screens from trusted brands like Atlas Armor and Progressive Screens is a smart decision that offers long-term value and reliable protection. Contact us at Awning Stars today to learn more about how we can help safeguard your home with the best hurricane screens on the market.
By choosing the right protection now, you can ensure your home is ready for whatever Mother Nature throws your way. To learn more about our hurricane screen solutions and what’s best for your home, contact us today to receive a free on-site consultation!
