- Alexander Rodriguez
The Best Ways to Reinforce Your Windows & Doors Before a Storm
Table of Contents
Storms can be brutal. High winds, flying debris, and heavy rain put your home at serious risk—especially your windows and doors. If they fail during a storm, the damage can escalate fast, leading to flooding, broken glass everywhere, and even structural collapse from the sudden change in air pressure.
So, how do you keep your home safe? Reinforcing your windows and doors before a storm hits is one of the smartest things you can do. In this guide, we’ll go over the best ways to strengthen these weak points and protect your home from severe weather damage.
Why Windows and Doors Are Vulnerable During Storms
Your home’s exterior is designed to withstand the elements, but windows and doors are weak spots. Here’s why:
✔ High winds can break glass or blow doors off their hinges.
✔ Flying debris can smash through windows and shatter glass everywhere.
✔ Weak seals and frames allow rain and wind-driven water to seep in, leading to flooding and damage.
✔ If a window or door gives way, air pressure inside the home changes, which can lift the roof off or push walls outward.
That’s why it’s critical to reinforce these areas before storm season starts.
How to Reinforce Windows Before a Storm
1. Install Storm Shutters
✔ One of the best protections for windows
✔ Made from aluminum, steel, or polycarbonate
✔ Permanent options (accordion or roll-down) or removable panels
✔ Can be quickly deployed before a storm hits
If you live in a hurricane-prone area, storm shutters are a must.
2. Use Plywood as a Budget-Friendly Option
✔ ½-inch to ⅝-inch thick plywood is best
✔ Cut to fit each window before storm season
✔ Use screws or bolts to secure plywood to the frame
✔ Should be installed at least 24 hours before a storm arrives
Plywood is a great low-cost alternative to storm shutters, but it takes time to install before every storm.
3. Apply Hurricane Window Film
✔ A thin, transparent adhesive film that strengthens glass
✔ Prevents shattered glass from scattering
✔ Does not prevent windows from breaking, but keeps them intact longer
Window film is not a substitute for shutters or plywood, but it adds an extra layer of protection.
4. Upgrade to Impact-Resistant Windows
✔ Strongest defense against high winds and flying debris
✔ Made with reinforced glass and a shatterproof layer
✔ Can withstand winds up to 200 mph
If you’re planning a window upgrade, investing in impact-resistant windows can provide long-term storm protection.
How to Reinforce Doors Before a Storm
1. Install Stronger Door Hinges and Screws
✔ Most standard doors are only attached with small, weak screws
✔ Replace with 3-inch screws to better anchor the door to the frame
✔ Use stainless steel or corrosion-resistant hinges for extra durability
This simple upgrade can keep your doors from blowing open during a storm.
2. Add a Heavy-Duty Deadbolt Lock
✔ Reinforces double doors and single entry doors
✔ Use a one-inch deadbolt for maximum strength
✔ Prevents doors from blowing open from high wind pressure
A good deadbolt lock makes it much harder for a storm to rip your doors open.
3. Install a Storm Door or Reinforcement Bar
✔ Storm doors add an extra layer of wind protection
✔ Door reinforcement bars prevent doors from being forced open
✔ Great for double doors or doors with glass panels
If your home has french doors or sliding glass doors, adding reinforcement is crucial.
4. Seal Gaps and Weatherproof Entry Points
✔ Use weather stripping to keep water from seeping in
✔ Apply caulking around door frames to prevent leaks
✔ Check the bottom seal for wear and replace it if needed
Storm-proofing isn’t just about strength—it’s also about keeping water out.
Bonus Tips for Storm Protection
✔ Clear any outdoor debris that could become a projectile.
✔ Trim trees and remove weak branches to prevent them from breaking windows.
✔ Secure outdoor furniture, grills, and decorations—they can turn into dangerous missiles in high winds.
✔ Check your home insurance policy to ensure you have coverage for storm damage.
✔ Have a storm emergency kit ready with essentials like water, flashlights, and first-aid supplies.
FAQs About Reinforcing Windows & Doors Before a Storm
Q: What’s the best way to protect windows during a hurricane?
A: Storm shutters are the best option because they are built to withstand extreme weather. If you don’t have shutters, boarding up windows with plywood is the next best thing.
Q: Can I use tape on windows to prevent them from breaking?
A: No! Taping windows does not prevent them from breaking. It’s a common myth, but it won’t keep glass from shattering during high winds.
Q: How can I tell if my doors are strong enough to handle a storm?
A: Check if your door is made of solid wood, steel, or fiberglass—these are the strongest materials. Also, make sure your hinges, screws, and deadbolt locks are upgraded for extra reinforcement.
Q: Are impact-resistant windows worth the investment?
A: Yes! Impact-resistant windows offer long-term protection and can withstand strong winds and flying debris. They also reduce noise, improve energy efficiency, and may lower insurance premiums.
Q: Should I reinforce sliding glass doors?
A: Absolutely. Sliding glass doors are very vulnerable to storm damage. Install a storm shutter, use a reinforcement bar, and apply impact-resistant film for added protection.
Final Thoughts
Storm-proofing your windows and doors can mean the difference between minor damage and total disaster. Taking the right steps now—before the next storm hits—can protect your home, save you money on repairs, and keep your family safe.
If your home has suffered storm damage and you need professional help, ERX (Emergency Restoration Xperts) is here for you. We specialize in storm damage restoration, emergency repairs, and water damage cleanup.
📞 Call ERX at (866)-217-7903 for immediate assistance. Let us help you get your home back to safe and secure condition.
