Measure temporary window panels in Surfside Beach, SC
Hurricane prep and shutters in Surfside Beach, SC starts with the exact size of every glass opening.
FEMA says to add 8 inches to the opening height and width. This measurement creates a 4-inch overlap on each side. Source: FEMA hurricane wind protection guide
FEMA specifies 5/8-inch exterior-grade plywood for its temporary shutter plan. Ask a provider whether the FEMA method fits the wall and opening. Source: FEMA hurricane wind protection guide
Label each panel for one opening. Mark its top edge and keep its hardware with it.
Match anchors to the wall in Surfside Beach, SC
Hurricane prep and shutters in Surfside Beach, SC needs anchors that match the opening size and wall material.
For wood-frame openings no larger than 3 feet by 4 feet, FEMA specifies 1/4-inch lag bolts with 1 3/4 inches of penetration. Larger openings use 3/8-inch lag bolts with at least 2 1/2 inches of penetration. Source: FEMA hurricane wind protection guide
Masonry walls use a different anchor plan. Ask a qualified provider to confirm the wall, fasteners, spacing, and safe access before drilling.
Install window protection before winds arrive in Surfside Beach, SC
Hurricane prep and shutters in Surfside Beach, SC must finish before outside work becomes unsafe.
FEMA says to prepare, mark, and store panels before a storm so installation can occur during a hurricane watch. Source: FEMA hurricane wind protection guide
The National Hurricane Center generally issues a hurricane watch 48 hours before tropical-storm-force winds may start. It generally issues a warning 36 hours before those winds may start. Source: National Hurricane Center warning definitions
Follow local emergency instructions. Do not carry panels or use ladders after winds make the work unsafe.
Avoid ineffective window steps in Surfside Beach, SC
Hurricane prep and shutters in Surfside Beach, SC should protect openings from windborne debris without creating loose material.
FEMA says tape does not protect glass from hurricane debris. Do not treat taped glass as window protection. Source: FEMA hurricane wind protection guide
Replace split panels and damaged hardware before the next deployment. Keep permanent shutters and removable panels operable throughout hurricane season.
Request temporary window protection in Surfside Beach, SC
Hurricane prep and shutters in Surfside Beach, SC starts with opening sizes, wall materials, panel storage, hardware, and access limits.
Share photos of every opening and existing anchor. Ask the provider to identify missing panels, unsafe access, and incompatible hardware.
Hurricane prep and shutters questions
- What plywood does FEMA specify for temporary hurricane shutters?
- FEMA specifies 5/8-inch exterior-grade plywood in its temporary shutter instructions.
- Source: FEMA hurricane wind protection guide
- How much overlap does the FEMA plywood plan use?
- Add 8 inches to each opening's height and width to create a 4-inch overlap on every side.
- Source: FEMA hurricane wind protection guide
- When should I install prepared window panels?
- FEMA says to prepare, mark, and store panels in advance so they can be installed during a hurricane watch.
- Source: FEMA hurricane wind protection guide
- How early does a hurricane watch start?
- The National Hurricane Center generally issues a hurricane watch 48 hours before tropical-storm-force winds may start.
- Source: National Hurricane Center warning definitions
- Should I tape windows before a hurricane?
- No. FEMA says tape does not protect glass from hurricane debris.
- Source: FEMA hurricane wind protection guide