Q: When is it too windy for an awning?

• <div><p>It&rsquo;s best to keep your awning retracted if winds are <b>25 miles per hour</b> or more to make sure your awning doesn&rsquo;t sustain irreparable damage due to wind. Some awnings can take winds up to 30 miles per hour without any damage, but it&rsquo;s best to consult the manufacturer&rsquo;s guidance. A good rule of thumb is if it&rsquo;s too windy for you to comfortably stand outside, it&rsquo;s time to bring the awning in.</p></div>

Question 1

When is it too windy for an awning?

Accepted Answer

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It’s best to keep your awning retracted if winds are 25 miles per hour or more to make sure your awning doesn’t sustain irreparable damage due to wind. Some awnings can take winds up to 30 miles per hour without any damage, but it’s best to consult the manufacturer’s guidance. A good rule of thumb is if it’s too windy for you to comfortably stand outside, it’s time to bring the awning in.

Question 2

What is hurricane fabric and how effective is it?

Accepted Answer

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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.

Question 3

What is hurricane fabric and how effective is it for storm protection?

Accepted Answer

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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.

Question 4

What can I use instead of lattice?

Accepted Answer

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There are many materials to choose from, including picket fencing, wood slats, galvanized metal skirting, dog-ear fence panels, scallop wood fence panels, bamboo screens, and other decorative screens. You can search for materials at local big box stores like Home Depot or scour online home improvement sites. Good search terms to use are fencing, skirting, and privacy panels.