How to Cut Hurricane Panels

Be prepared for a hurricane with cut plywood panels.

The U.S. Federal Emergency Management Agency provides tips on how to achieve hurricane preparedness before disaster happens. Maintain an emergency supply kit ready in your home, which includes medicine, clothing, water and food. Prepare and discuss a family emergency plan ahead of time, which includes where to meet and where to take family pets if a hurricane happens. Another FEMA tip is to stay informed of hurricane warnings and prepare your home or business for possible dangers. Obtain hurricane shutters before hurricane season starts or cut your own plywood hurricane panels at home.

Things You'll Need

• 5/8-inch or 3/4-inch exterior-grade plywood
• Measuring tape
• Saw
• Pencil
• 3-inch or 4-inch heavy-duty barrel bolts with matching screws
• Drill

Instructions

1. Measure the window frame from the outside. Ensure you take accurate measurements. Many windows are not perfectly square. A good fit is key to ensuring the panel can sustain high winds.

2. Cut the plywood with any type of saw you have available. Mark which way is up on the cut board. Mark which window or door the wood will be protecting.

3. Screw the barrel bolts to the panel, spacing them about 2 feet apart. A small- or medium-sized window will need four barrel bolts.

4. Place the plywood against the window. It should be recessed into the frame. This placement will make it stronger rather than if you attached panels to the stucco. Mark with a pencil where the bolts will be placed.

5. Drill holes into the window recess where you marked where the bolt will be placed. Paint or varnish the plywood. Attach the panels to the windows when you are alerted of any hurricane warnings.

Tips & Warnings

• Store plywood panels in a cool, dry location to prevent warping.

• You also can use corrugated steel for hurricane shutters.

• Make the hurricane panels before hurricane season starts. Plywood and other materials become scarce when hurricane warnings go into effect.

References

• National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration: Plywood Hurricane Instructions

Resources

• Ready America: Hurricanes