As hurricane season approaches in Tampa, ensuring your home’s windows and doors are secure is more important than ever. At Lipton Window & Door, we specialize in window and door replacement, hurricane protection, and impact-resistant installations designed to safeguard Florida homes.
Here's a comprehensive guide to help you prepare and protect what matters most.
1. Know the Window & Door Vulnerabilities
Windows and doors face the brunt of hurricane forces. According to FEMA, strong winds and flying debris—known as "projectiles"—can shatter glass and damage frames, allowing water and wind to infiltrate your home.
2. Inspect Existing Units
- Cracked or loose glass and damaged seals
- Gaps around frames
- Rusted or malfunctioning hardware
- Wear on weather-stripping
3. Update Seals & Caulking
Worn-out caulking allows water intrusion. Inspect seals monthly and re-caulk any gaps. Proper sealing keeps wind and rain out, maintaining structural integrity and energy efficiency.
4. Reinforce or Replace Garage & Entry Doors
Garage doors are particularly vulnerable to wind pressure. FEMA recommends upgrading to hurricane-rated or reinforced garage systems.
5. Pre-Season Planning & Checklist
| Task | Description |
|---|---|
| Gather supplies | Flashlights, batteries, radio, first-aid, non-perishables |
| Secure backup power | Test generators, clear debris |
| Document possessions | Take photos/videos before storm |
| Review policy & flood insurance | Check for flood coverage and discounts |
| Clear gutters & drainage | Prevent water buildup |
| Remove loose items | Furniture, tools, etc. |
| Board up backups | Have plywood or hurricane panels ready |
6. Board-Up vs Impact-Resistant Options
Homeowners often consider plywood as a temporary fix, but long-term protection is best achieved through hurricane-rated glass or shutter systems. Explore Lipton’s protection solutions.
7. Weather-Strip and Frame Maintenance
Replace weather-strips annually and check window and door frames, including corners and joints.
8. Secure Patio & Sliding Doors
Install reinforced braces or security bars and consider aftermarket security locks.
9. Roofing and Gutter Clean-Up
Clear leaves and debris to prevent water buildup.
10. Check Your Insurance & Financing Options
Upgrades may earn policy discounts and eligibility for My Safe Florida Home grants.
11. Timing Your Installation
Install in May–June before peak hurricane season. See when to replace windows in Florida.
12. Post-Storm Safety & Inspections
After a storm, inspect windows and doors for damage, and contact professionals for quick repair and replacement.
13. Long-Term Care & Maintenance
- Monthly inspections
- Seasonal lubrication of moving parts
- Keep frames clean and dry
14. Community Talk: Home Upgrades & Grants
Lipton participates in grant programs to help Floridians make home improvements more affordable.
15. Why Choose Lipton Window & Door?
- Factory-direct hurricane-rated products
- Licensed, experienced installers
- No-pressure estimates and trusted warranties
- Local knowledge of Tampa Bay’s storm risks
Related Resources:
Final Takeaways
- Act early—don’t wait for storm watches.
- Prioritize impact-rated windows and doors.
- Keep seals tight and check all doors/sliders.
- Leverage grants and save on insurance.
- Maintain and inspect regularly.
Trust the Window and Door Leaders
We bring decades of experience, unmatched craftsmanship, and premium products to every project.