11 Ways to Avoid Hurricane Costs

The 2011 Hurricane Season is underway and now is the time to prepare. The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) predicts 6-10 hurricanes this year with 3-6 of those classified as major hurricanes. Hurricane damage can be costly, thankfully there are ways to protect your home from storm damage.

Here are 11 Ways to Avoid Hurricane Costs:

1. Plywood - Board up windows with plywood and nails.

2. Fabric Panels - These protect your windows from debris.

3. Hurricane Straps - These help secure your roof from high winds.

4. Flood Barriers - Whether it's sandbags or another product, protecting your home from flooding is a must.

5. Storm Panels - Steel or aluminum shutters provide more window protection than plywood.

6. Roll-Down Hurricane Shutters - The easiest and most convenient way to protect your windows.

7. Garage Door Braces - 80% of residential wind damage occurs because of entry through a garage door. Some newer garage doors are rated for winds up to 150 mph but older garage doors should be secured.

8. Hurricane Glass - A permanent solution for window protection.

9. Accordion Shutters - Retractable aluminum shutters which protect against storm damage and forced entry.

10. Bahama Shutters - Hinged at the top with telescoping arms to protect windows.

11. Colonial Shutters - Attach to the wall and fold inward to close.