Somewhere along the line, you may have heard that opening the windows in your home is the right thing to do during a hurricane. The age-old theory has it that if you leave your windows open during a hurricane, the strong winds will pass cleanly through the house and create less structural damage than would occur with your windows closed.

In order to find out exactly what happens when you open your windows during a hurricane, studies have been conducted to simulate the conditions, since it wouldn’t be safe for anyone to actually conduct testing in a real hurricane.

The Insurance Institute for Business & Home Safety recommends that you close all interior doors and all windows for major wind storms including hurricanes. That’s because wind that enters a home through open windows creates strong upward pressure on the home’s roof. Keeping the doors and windows closed helps to compartmentalize the pressure and reduce the force on the roof which gives it a better chance to stay intact.

As pressure keeps rising your home’s roof may eventually blow apart allowing water to come pouring in and flood your home and belongings. Keeping your doors and windows closed reduces the force on your roof and helps it stay put. In addition to closing exterior windows and doors, it’s also recommended that you close all interior doors as well.

Storm Smart offers a wide variety of storm protection and hurricane windows and doors designed to protect your home from hurricanes and other intense storms. Window protection is critical when it comes to protecting your home or business during a hurricane and Storm Smart can help you decide which product is right for you. Give us a call today at 239-274-2700 for your storm protection needs.

Why You Should Keep Your Windows Closed During a Hurricane

Opening windows during a hurricane is a dangerous myth that can lead to severe damage. Studies show that leaving windows open allows wind to create upward pressure on your roof, increasing the risk of it blowing off. The best way to protect your home is by keeping your windows closed and ensuring they are equipped with impact-resistant windowsfrom Storm Smart. These windows are designed to withstand strong winds and flying debris, reducing the chance of structural damage. For additional protection, consider hurricane shutters or Storm Smart’s protective screens, which shield your home from wind and rain. Contact Storm Smart today to explore the best storm protection solutions for your home and stay safe during the next hurricane.