The short answer
Why Window Protection Matters
Windows are the most vulnerable part of a home during a hurricane. Flying debris can shatter glass, letting wind and rain pour inside. Once that happens, water can soak walls, floors, and belongings quickly, leading to costly repairs and mold growth.
Strong winds can also create pressure changes that push a window inward even without direct impact. Protecting the glass keeps the building envelope intact, which lowers the chance of major water damage. In coastal areas, hurricane season makes this a yearly concern.
Board Up with Plywood
Plywood is a common, budget-friendly option. Use 5/8-inch exterior-grade plywood, cut to fit each window opening with a few inches of overlap on the frame. Pre-drill holes and mark each panel so you can install it quickly when a storm is coming.
Attach the panels with heavy screws into the wall studs, not just the window trim. Do this from outside, and brace the bottom edge securely. Remove the boards once the storm passes, and store them flat in a dry spot so they stay usable for next time.
- Measure every window before the season starts
- Use corrosion-resistant screws or bolts
- Cover sliding glass doors with the same method
- Keep a cordless drill and spare batteries ready
- Label each panel for its window
- Check boards for rot or damage each year
Install Storm Shutters
Storm shutters are a more permanent solution. They come in styles like roll-down, accordion, or colonial, and they can be closed quickly when a warning is issued. Some types stay on the window frame year-round, so you do not need to store large panels.
Shutters are designed to meet local building codes for wind resistance, which gives you a dependable barrier. They also block UV rays and add a layer of security when you are away. If you choose shutters, have them installed by a professional to ensure proper fit and strength.
Check Seals and Cracks
Before a storm, inspect every window for cracked glass, gaps in the caulking, or worn weather stripping. Even small openings let water seep in during heavy rain. Replace damaged caulk and seal any gaps around the frame with a quality exterior sealant.
Look at the inside sills too, and clean out any debris from tracks on sliding windows. If a window already leaks, consider covering it with plastic sheeting as a temporary barrier, but that only helps for light moisture. For real protection, repair or replace the window before hurricane season.
Deal with Water After the Storm
If water gets in despite your efforts, act fast. Move furniture and rugs away from wet areas, and use towels or a wet-dry vacuum to remove standing water. Open windows and doors to air out the space, and run fans or a dehumidifier to dry surfaces within 24 to 48 hours.
Check walls, floors, and baseboards for dampness. If drywall feels soft or shows stains, it may need to be cut out and replaced. For large floods or hidden moisture, local water damage pros can inspect the home and help with drying and repairs. Policies vary, and your insurer decides what is covered.
- Remove wet items from the room
- Use a moisture meter on walls and floors
- Pull up soaked carpet or padding
- Disinfect surfaces that touched floodwater
- See a doctor if you feel unwell from mold exposure
Talk to someone now
Phones are answered 24/7 for Daytona Beach and nearby communities.
Call Now (386) 272-5697Frequently asked questions
Can I use tape on windows instead of boarding them?
Tape does little to stop wind pressure or flying debris. It may keep shattered glass in place briefly, but it will not prevent breakage. Boarding with plywood or using shutters is the only reliable way to protect windows during a hurricane.
What size plywood should I use for hurricane windows?
Use 5/8-inch exterior-grade plywood for the strongest protection. Thinner sheets can bend or break under high winds. Cut each panel to fit your window opening with at least 2 inches of overlap on the frame, and secure it with screws into the wall studs.
Should I leave windows open during a hurricane?
No. Leaving windows open lets wind and rain push inside, causing water damage and making the structure less stable. Keep all windows closed and protected with shutters or plywood. This helps keep the building envelope sealed against the storm.