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Matt J

SWGB
May 9, 2007
24,862
9,670
Thank you, that does clarify your statement very clearly. My understanding was that other building supplies had come down in cost or this untrue as well?
 

Rambunkscious

Beach Lover
Jan 17, 2007
136
3
The fabric shield is the best alternative to impact windows I have seen.
Reasonable cost but still have to be installed like plywood just not as heavy and cumbersome. If you have windows upstairs its hard to install.
 

John R

needs to get out more
Dec 31, 2005
6,780
828
Conflictinator
To get any discount from insurance(state farm, at least) the window protection needs to be professionally installed by the reseller, then inspected and signed off by the building dept. there is an affadavit that the ins company will supply.

rambunkcious, i'd rather be hauling the fabric shield up the ladder than a sheet of plywood, or the lucite or aluminum panels that need to be fitted together...
 

beachmouse

Beach Fanatic
Dec 5, 2004
3,499
741
Bluewater Bay, FL
Added expense or not, if you look at how structures built under different codes fared in Punta Gorda during Hurricane Charley, it's impressive how well homes built under newer codes do hold up compared to older homes.

Based on that, I'm all for the long-term benefits of a tighter codes, even if it causes some sort term discomfort in the real estate market.
 

Smiling JOe

SoWal Expert
Nov 18, 2004
31,644
1,773
All homes built in compliance with the latest codes, will be required to have the impact glass, so the storm shutters or Wayne Dalton products (great idea), would just be over and above.

I'm not sure of the cost difference on the avg home built with impact glass, than those without, but I bet if you wrapped it into the 30yr note, the benefits outweigh the costs.
 

Snapper Grabber

Beach Comber
Jul 9, 2005
45
1
A wood frame home with hardiplank siding and standard finishes (basic trim, solid-surface countertops, stock cabinets, etc.) should not cost more than $200/sq. foot and can probably be built for a bit lower. A 3-story home requires wind rated windows/doors on all levels or storm shutters, which are both very expensive. Go for the windows--much less headache and not much more expensive than shutters.

Does this price include the lot or is it for home construction only?
 

PC Snoop

Beach Comber
Jan 8, 2007
17
0
I just dont get by here often enough. All points well made in this thread.
Yep, impact windows are significantly more expensive, but who paid the bigger price along the Mississippi coast as a result of Katrina or South Miami after Andrew. The fact is that if you do not prepare for the reasonable worst case scenario you are inviting the worst to happen The residential building code is a political document that is constructed from compromise among competing interests. It has also been described as the minimum standard to not go to jail. Why would you go with the minimum for your home whether it is primary or vacation. A lot of your net worth is tied up in that minimum standard investment.
A building whether residential or commercial is a single monolithic structure. In high winds, that wind is looking for the weak link. It will seek it out. The roof, the eaves ,the walls or doors and windows. Once it can penetrate the envelope of the building it will treat the building like a aircraft wing. Wind force differentials and all. try to tear it apart. The point being that you need to protect the complete envelope of your building. Windows on most homes are the weak link. One high velocity pine cone or your neighbors lawn chair into your window can give the wind the advatage it seeks.
I personally would recommend inmpact windows along 30-A. It is built in protection. If you live elsewhere, you will not be driving against the evactuation flow just to put up shutters. And not hoping that the management compant got by to do it for you. If you live here during hurricane season than the Fabric Shield panels are viable and easy to put up. A lot easier than plywood or metal. If you would like to learn more follow this link and PM me.
http://www.ecosmartinc.com/catwind.php
 
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