Hurricane Safety Information - Diamond Hurricane Screen FAQ´s

Frequently Asked Questions | Diamond Hurricane Screens Protection Systems

How does this screen work?

Simply put, our screen is a woven polymer product of unusual strength that withstands impacts from flying objects. It is specifically designed to protect against high impact flying debris.

Does this product meet the Florida building code requirements?

Yes; it has FBC approval and IBC (International Building Code) approval.

Does it meet the American Society of Mechanical Engineers standards?

Yes, it has ASME approval and is also approved internationally by ICC.

Will this product prevent my windows from getting broken?

Not always. Depending on the weight and speed of the projectile, the flying object could deflect the screen enough to break the glass of the window. However the screen will not be penetrated and the opening in the structure will remain protected against penetration by wind and rain.

If my window gets broken, will this product inhibit wind and rain from entering my home?

Yes. The polymer screen allows approximately 3% wind penetration, which permits gentle air circulation in hurricane and non-hurricane periods. Rain penetration is also negligible.

Is this hurricane screen better than the metal shields or solid fabric barriers available at some home improvement stores?

Barrier Island screens enable see-through capability and normal daylight conditions along with gentle air circulation. Depending on the circumstances, polymer screens can be more resistant to penetration by flying objects than typical metal shutters. However, each hurricane protection product offers unique benefits and disadvantages including cost, storage, handling, appearance, rusting, weight and acceptance within community associations.

Can I see through this screen?

Our screens provide visibility to the outdoors while allowing abundant sunlight to enter the room enabling you to remain in your home and carry out normal daytime activities without having to turn on the lights. In addition, the homeowner does not have to immediately remove the view and air restrictive solid fabric, metal or plywood panels after the storm passes. The screen also provides privacy similar to that of a conventional window screen plus enhanced shading for energy savings.

When installed, will this product allow light into my home?

Yes, it allows about 75-80% light penetration. When the storm is over and the electricity is gone, you can still see what you are doing and enjoy your home during daylight hours.

Can the screen be left up all the time?

Yes, our screens give you a huge advantage over other hurricane panel materials. You can leave the screens on your windows all year long; one installation engagement and you're done. Or, you may prefer to put them up for the full hurricane season, especially when you are away from home. Some homeowners prefer to isntall the screens only when the hurricane threatens their home directly. Screens on doors should be put up whenever storms threaten and taken down and stored after the danger has passed.

Aluminum, steel, plastic corrugated panels, solid fabrics and plywood require installation and removal before/after each storm whether the storm arrives or not. The exercise is laborious, time consuming and difficult for the average homeowner. Due to weight and size, some of these panels require the services of a contractor especially on second and third floors, generating additional recurring cost to the homeowner. In fact, many homeowners neglect to protect upper floor windows and attic vents due to the challenge of reaching them. And, of course, these antiquated methods block light and airflow, potentially causing dank air and mildew growth on surfaces and furnishings in the interior of the structure.

By comparison, Barrier Island screens allow gentle air to flow throughout your home while permitting sunlight to brighten your residence as they protect your home from severe storms and hurricanes.

Air Flow: How does it work?

During hurricanes, our screens act as a wind abatement system, reducing the hurricane winds by 97% on the inside of the screen. Unlike other hurricane protection methods that block virtually all air circulation and sunlight, creating an incubator for mold and mildew, our screens accommodate air circulation (when the window is open) and abundant sunlight. They offer clear views of external events, saving the homeowner from the cave like claustrophobic experience that other hurricane protection methods impose.

What anchors are installed into my building?

Some fastening systems are installed flush with the exterior wall while others have a short metal stud coming out from the wall. Whether the homeowner prefers to install our screens permanently or just put them up when required, the attachment anchors used to fasten them to the exterior wall are permanent. We recommend the homeowner investigate the types of anchors they will use carefully before installation begins.

Can I install Barrier Island screens by myself?

That depends on your skills. Our product and our installation instructions are designed for the do-it-yourselfer. For those who are not skilled in this area, it is advisable to hire a licensed contractor since correct installation is critical to the product's strength and function.

What kind of tools do I need?

The tools needed will depend on the type of structure on which you are installing our product. Please read the Installation Instructions on this website.

How difficult are they to put up and how long does it take?

Once the anchoring system is in place, Barrier Island screens are easy to deploy. They are lightweight (a little less than 1 ounce per square foot). Most homes can be fully protected by one person in a short (compared to plywood!!) period of time.

What kind of maintenance does your system require?

Make sure screens are clean and dry before storing. Use only soapy water and a clean sponge or rag; do not use abrasive cleaners. You should lubricate bolts, nuts and studs at least once a year with white lithium grease. It is preferable but not required that you store screens vertically, off the ground, in a dry, protected and easily accessible location. Wing nuts can be stored on the stud or in any convenient location.

Do they store easily?

We expect that our window screens will remain installed throughout the year. However, since our hurricane screens are lightweight and flexible they can be stored easily. We also recommend that the user identify the location of the window or door, directly on the attached label. We strongly advise that our screens be stored rolled up or hung flat since they can develop permanent creases when folded.

Where can I buy Barrier Island hurricane screens? Are they available in stores?

Barrier Island screens are not available in stores. We sell them uniquely across the web in order to provide the best cost benefit to the buyer.

Can I order this product from you over the phone?

Yes. Please see the toll-free Customer Service telephone number on the top of this page.

May I pay by cash or check?

No. As an e-commerce site, we can only accept payment by credit card.

If the product does not fit when I receive it, what do I do?

Contact our office listed on this website or call our Customer Service telephone number. Please see our policy (Ordering) for returns and refunds.

How does your product compare with other hurricane protection products in terms of price?

See our Product Comparison page for a comparison of our product with other hurricane protection products in the marketplace.

What if I have questions about the product or the installation that are not addressed on this website?

Go to the Contact Us page on this website, fill out the form and submit it to us. We will get back to you as soon as possible. We want to understand your situation and help you choose the most cost effective solution that will address your needs.

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