If you live in a place susceptible to hurricanes, we recommend installing commercial grade shutters or roll down blinds. However these are expensive and not everyone can afford them. Many people resort to plywood hurricane shutters and these can actually be quite effective if installed properly. Plywood hurricane shutters are fairly inexpensive and all supplies are available at the local hardwood store.
The effectiveness of plywood hurricane shutters rests solely with the installation of the wood. One of the best installation methods is to cut the wood to fit inside the inset of the window and then fasten in place using barrel bolts. This works well because the wood is recessed against the window and the wind cannot grab it and tear it off your home.
Here is what you need for your plywood hurricane shutters. First, use 5/8 or ¾ inch exterior grade plywood along with 3 or 4 inch heavy duty barrel bolts. For small to medium windows, use a total of 4 bolts, either one for each side or two on the right and two on the left sides. Large windows need more bolts. Using one bolt for every two feet of window should do the trick.
