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Hurricane fabric is a temporary form of hurricane protection that offers an alternative to boarding up windows or installing traditional storm panels. Unlike hurricane screens, which are permanently attached to your home, hurricane fabric is installed over your windows and other openings before a storm.

In terms of effectiveness, hurricane fabric is tested and proven to protect homes from Category 5 hurricanes, which can have winds over 157 miles per hour. When installed properly, it is designed to block the majority of wind and rain and protect against water, debris, and projectile damage.

While the fabric is exceptionally durable, windows can still break if hit directly by flying debris at high velocity. However, it is a good protective measure against an impending storm. For comparison, hurricane fabric is more protective and durable than hurricane window film. While boarding up windows is easier than installing the fabric, it is more labor-intensive and requires storing heavy plywood.

To further increase the chances of your windows surviving a hurricane, you can take additional steps like securing outdoor items, elevating HVAC units, and fortifying your home's foundation.

It’s best to opt for a lightweight roof, as a heavy roof adds a lot of weight and pressure to the support posts and hardware and destabilizes the structure. Vinyl is a good, lightweight option, as is a nice open trellis, louvered aluminum or vinyl slats, or fabric panels. Clear polycarbonate is another great option that offers seamless shelter and additional UV protection without completely obscuring the sunshine. You can also choose retractable coverings or an awning that you only use in wet weather or when you need additional shade.

Metal awnings last much longer than fabric thanks to their durability and resistance to fading, sun damage, and damage from the outside elements. They also need less maintenance than fabric options. Both items add curb appeal to your home, but you shouldn't expect either type of awning to add property value to your home.

The average cost to build a pergola ranges from $2,200 to $6,400, whereas the average cost of an awning ranges from $1,400 to $4,400, meaning that an awning tends to be less expensive to build or install than a pergola. Ultimately, the less expensive option depends on a few factors, including size, quality of materials used, and location.