Windows are one of the most vulnerable points in a home during severe weather. High winds carry debris that can shatter standard glass in seconds, and once a window fails, the interior of your home is exposed to wind pressure, rain, and further structural risk. Whether you are preparing for tornado season in Nebraska or getting ahead of the next major storm, the right window protection strategy can be the difference between minor cleanup and significant property damage.
During a tornado, wind speeds can reach up to 200 mph — enough to compromise even double- or triple-paned glass. Here are the most effective ways to protect your windows before severe weather hits.
How to Prevent Window Damage During Severe Weather
Security Film
This solution works for annealed, toughened, and laminated glass windowpanes. It’s a polymer liner that bonds to the glass using adhesive. It keeps the glass as a single pane, even if it cracks or shatters, and prevents damage to the frame.
Some security window films feature tinting for additional UV protection for your furniture or carpet. It also provides privacy from people looking into your home.
High-Impact Windows For Severe Weather Safety
Another option is to install tempered high-impact glass. These windows feature dual tempered panes integrated with a chemical polymer. The glass undergoes heat treatment to strengthen it, which makes it up to four times stronger than conventional windowpanes.
It’s a similar strategy used by automotive glass manufacturers in windshield construction. High-impact panes look like regular windows but provide additional strength. These impact-resistant windows are shatter-resistant and designed to withstand high wind speeds in storms.
Storm Shutters
Shutters are common in homes in coastal areas and tornado zones that experience high wind speeds. Shutters are available in several designs and styles. The most popular options are Bahama, colonial, and accordion shutters, but some homes may also feature roll-down designs. You have options for materials such as:
- Polycarbonate
- Aluminum
- Steel
All shutter designs serve a similar purpose of shielding the windowpanes from wind damage and flying debris. Experts recommend this method, which protects the window frames and glass during a storm.
Severe Weather Storm Paneling
Storm panels are a practical, reusable alternative to plywood that offer better durability and visibility.
Best features:
- Most panels are made from polycarbonate, impact-resistant and rot-proof
- Clear designs with rubber edging let light in and allow you to see outside during the storm
- Absorbs wind shock without transferring force directly to the frame
- Most designs install without nailing or bolting into the frame
Plywood Boards
Plywood is the budget fallback, functional, but comes with real trade-offs.
The downsides:
- Must be nailed directly into the window frame, which can compromise structural integrity
- Nail holes left behind require filling and repainting after removal
- Completely opaque with no light and no visibility
- Absorbs moisture and can rot if exposed to heavy rain
Best for: Homeowners with no other option and a tight timeline. If clear storm panels are within reach, they are the better choice in every practical respect.
Hurricane Fabrics
Hurricane fabrics are the fastest-deploying option available with no tools, no hardware, and no heavy lifting.
Why homeowners choose them:
- Resin-infused construction resists high wind speeds without added bulk
- Clips directly to pre-fitted hooks on the window frame in minutes
- Works on large windows where rigid panels are difficult to maneuver
- Folds flat after the storm for compact storage in a garage or utility space
Best for: Homeowners who want a quick-deploy solution they can put up and take down with minimal effort between storm seasons.
Protecting Your Windows from Damage During Severe Weather
No single solution works for every home. The right choice depends on your budget, your window sizes, and how quickly you need to be able to deploy protection. A few final points to guide your decision:
- Permanent options like high-impact windows and storm shutters offer the most reliable protection with no prep required before each storm
- Deployable options like panels and hurricane fabrics are more affordable upfront but require action before each weather event
- Plywood is a last resort, use it only when no better option is available
Have recent storms in the Lincoln, NE, or Eastern Nebraska area caused window damage? Contact North Country Windows & Baths today for a free estimate. Our windows are custom-made to fit your home, backed by a Lifetime Warranty, and built for years of maintenance-free performance.
North Country Windows & Baths in Lincoln, NE, and the Surrounding Areas
At North Country Windows & Baths, our Windows are backed by a Lifetime Warranty giving our customers peace of mind. Each window is custom-made to fit your home with state-of-the-art engineering by design, and energy efficiency enhanced by style. Our windows are made to last for years of maintenance-free beauty.
Whether you want a soaker tub surrounded by subway tile or a low threshold shower with granite-like walls, you can customize your BathWraps space and even add accessories like soap dishes, caddies, seating, grab bars, and more Contact us today.
