With an average of 14 storms each year, hurricane season brings the threat of forceful winds and torrential rain that can result in widespread devastation. Polycarbonate storm panels can help protect windows and doors from the destruction caused by these severe storms. The thermoplastic is not the only material that can withstand those dangers, but for many structures, it’s the gold standard.
When considering your options for protection, there are three materials to choose from: metal, plywood, and polycarbonate storm panels. All three materials are effective but have distinct advantages and disadvantages. While plywood is inexpensive, it can only be used one time; metal shutters can corrode and rust from repeated storms; and polycarbonate can be costly and is prone to scratching. That said, hurricane protection plastics, such as 16 mm polycarbonate, have advantages over the competition, including:
- Impact resistance – Polycarbonate hurricane panels can withstand winds in excess of 155 miles per hour and impacts from airborne projectiles. This protects the structure from interior damage due to wind and water.
- Durability – Polycarbonate is resistant to moisture, corrosion, and UV rays, keeping its structural integrity intact for decades.
- Lightweight – The lightweight panels are easy to handle, allowing them to be installed quickly by a homeowner. Their weight also makes them a great choice for larger windows and doors.
- Light transmission – The material’s translucency allows light to filter through. That’s beneficial when storm preparation occurs days leading up to a storm as well as potential power outages during a storm.
Key Takeaways
- Hurricane season averages 14 storms per year, bringing high winds and heavy rain that can cause major damage.
- Polycarbonate storm panels are one of the strongest, longest-lasting options compared to plywood and metal.
- They offer impact resistance against winds over 155 MPH and flying debris.
- Durable and weather-resistant: won’t warp, rust, corrode, or yellow from UV exposure.
- Lightweight and translucent, making them easy to install and allowing natural light to filter through.
- Proven performance: Miami-Dade County Hurricane tested for missile impact and 170 MPH winds.
- Outlasts plywood and metal barriers, with minimal maintenance required.
- Useful for residential and commercial properties—including retail, schools, offices, shelters, and historic sites.
- Provide long-term cost savings, since panels can be reused for decades.
- Approved for direct mount installation in Florida and Miami-Dade, saving on framing and labor costs.
The Science Behind Polycarbonate Storm Panels Impact Resistance
Multiwall polycarbonate storm panels are engineered with multiple layers of polycarbonate materials to create a strong barrier for extreme weather conditions. The multi-layered design provides superior strength and impact resistance compared to traditional materials. They are virtually unbreakable and protect windows and doors against hurricane-force winds, flying debris, and severe weather.
UV, Wind, and Debris: Testing Polycarbonate in Storm Conditions
Acme’s multiwall polycarbonate storm panels have passed the Miami-Dade County Hurricane test, withstanding a Large Missile Impact test where a 9 lb. 2” X 4” missile as shot out of an air cannon without causing any damage to the panel or the glass behind it. Additionally, the panels undergo testing against high air pressure, simulate 170 MPH winds, and prove their durability. Their UV resistance helps keep the panels from yellowing and becoming brittle, so they’ll last for years.
Why Polycarbonate Storm Panels Lasts Longer than Plywood or Metal Barriers
Virtually unbreakable, polycarbonate is highly impact-resistant and can withstand high winds and flying debris without cracking or shattering. The hurricane protection plastic does not rust or corrode, making it last longer in areas where salt water and humidity are a concern. In comparison, galvanized steel hurricane shutters can rust or corrode and require maintenance like painting and sealing for prevention and to extend the panels’ lifespan. Plywood can splinter from impacts and it warps when wet, making it not suitable for use more than once.
Commercial Applications: Retail, Schools, and Office Buildings
Polycarbonate storm panels protect more than residential homes. They help storefronts, schools, and office buildings prepare for severe weather as well. They can also be used post-storm for temporary window and door coverings due to damage. Here are a a few industry applications for polycarbonate hurricane panels:
- Retail — Reinforce storefront windows to and doors
- Hospitality – Protect windows, balconies, and outdoor seating areas
- Schools – Shield windows and entryways
- Office buildings – Protect records and equipment
- Emergency shelters – Panels can help create zones within a larger space
- Historical sites – Temporarily protect fragile windows and doors from the storm damage without damaging the structure
Cost Savings Over Multiple Hurricane Seasons
- The initial cost of polycarbonate storm panels may be more up front than other options, but the investment will be worth it since they last for multiple hurricane seasons—even decades. Also, consider:
- While plywood is the least expensive option, it only has one usage time.
- Hurricane protection plastics are low-maintenance. Unlike metal shutters, they don’t require paint or sealant, just regular cleaning prior to storing post-storm.
- Homeowners install hurricane panels, saving money on labor.
- Acme’s Multiwall Hurricane Panels are approved by Florida State and Miami-Dade County for direct mount installation, eliminating the need for bulky and expensive framing systems.
Protect Your Property with Acme Plastics
Sold on polycarbonate storm panels for hurricane preparation? Contact us today for more information on our polycarbonate hurricane panels. We’d love to help you secure and protect your home or business from damage.
