STORM SHIELD Hurricane Barriers are specifically engineered to provide the ultimate in severe weather protection. After Hurricane Andrew, intensive research involving building code officials and hurricane test labs enabled Exeter to define a state-of-the-art shutter system – the first sensible severe weather protection you can see thru!
Use this guide to choose a barrier style, add the options your openings need, and understand how barrier size relates to wind pressure. When you are ready, submit an online quote form.
Step 1: Select the Barrier Style to Fit Your Needs
Bahama Mount
Unlike conventional Bahama shutters, STORM SHIELD's Bahama shutter design allows a high ratio of light transmittance. The unit quickly retracts and locks into place with four easy push pins – a practical system for multi-story properties.
Ready Mount
Ready Mount units can be permanently affixed to your structure for added security or stored during the off season. In the event of a storm, simply insert the shutter panel into the pre-mounted tracks and quickly secure with four push pins.
Split Sash Mount
The Split Sash unit is self-storing, right in place on your building. In the open and raised position the unit helps block harmful UV rays, and it can be closed for storm protection in seconds by sliding it down the track and pinning. Ask about availability when you request a quote.
Sliding Patio and Hurricane Doors
The STORM SHIELD sliding patio hurricane door is the first horizontal sliding shutter you can see thru, engineered for a wide range of widths and multiple panels. The side hinged Hurricane Door looks and acts like a security screen door.
Also available: Fixed Mount, Side Hinge, Side Hinge with Security Egress and Top Hinge. Compare them all on the hurricane barrier windows page.
Step 2: Select Barrier Options
Circle tops, arch tops, and special geometric shapes cannot be properly covered with conventional hurricane shutters. Exeter's technology enables STORM SHIELD to provide aesthetically pleasing in-place protection for circle top, arch top and custom shaped windows and skylights. STORM SHIELD Hurricane Barriers meet the latest trends in window design – an easy solution for what used to be a complex problem. Read more in hurricane protection for arched and custom windows.
Options shown in the chart include the security egress option (SEO), security jambs, auto lift arms, top or side hinging, mulled sets for groups of windows, arched tops and custom shapes. Availability depends on the barrier style and opening size, so confirm options with our team for each project.
Step 3: Barrier Size Guidelines (Design Pressure Rating)
Most damage in a hurricane comes from flying objects and wind borne debris (see Product Performance – Physical Protection). However, wind pressure is also a critical factor. Once windows and doors fail, a building is likely to suffer severe damage or complete loss. The legacy of Hurricane Andrew facilitated the adoption of new code requirements and the development of stronger and tougher shutter systems.
In general, the larger the unit, the lower the design pressure it can resist, which is why barrier size guidelines are published by product type and unit size. STORM SHIELD units were engineered to the South Florida building codes and ASCE 7 design loads in force when they were tested. Today, required design pressures for each opening are calculated from the ASCE 7 edition adopted by the local building code, based on wind speed, exposure, building height and the opening's location on the wall. Always confirm current approved ratings for your opening sizes – request specifications and read design pressure ratings explained.
Coastal municipalities, as well as owners of commercial and residential properties, cannot afford to be unprepared for the next violent storm. Whether you require glass protection for single or multiple applications, STORM SHIELD can fill your opening without sacrificing aesthetics or safety.