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A Detailed Guide to Plywood for Hurricane Protection

by Glenn | Aug 14, 2025 | Blog

As hurricane season approaches, securing your home becomes a top priority. While professional shutters and impact-resistant windows offer the best protection, they can be a significant investment. Plywood remains a popular and cost-effective solution for many homeowners, offering a strong barrier against flying debris and high winds. However, for it to be truly effective, it must be done correctly. This guide will walk you through the essential steps and best practices for using plywood to protect your home.

Learn about Stow and Deploy® Hardware Makes Installation Simple and Hurricane Preparation Fast

Choosing the Right Materials

The first step is gathering the right materials. Don’t just grab any wood from the store; the right plywood and fasteners are crucial for a successful installation.

Plywood: The recommended thickness is at least 5/8-inch exterior-grade plywood, often labeled as CDX. This thickness provides a good balance between strength and manageable weight. While 1/2-inch might be tempting, it offers less protection. For high-risk areas, consider 3/4-inch plywood for added security.
Fasteners: The type of fastener you use depends on your home’s construction.
- For Wood-Framed Homes: Use corrosion-resistant screws (No. 8 or No. 10) that are long enough to penetrate at least two inches into the framing studs.
- For Masonry/Stucco Homes: Use masonry anchors or barrel bolts. Pre-drilling holes with a masonry bit will be necessary.
- Plywood Clips: Some products, like Plylox clips, allow you to secure plywood to the window frame without drilling, which is a great option if you want to avoid making holes in your home’s exterior.

Preparation: Measure, Cut, and Label

Preparation is key to a quick and stress-free installation when a storm is looming.

Measure Accurately: Measure each window opening from the inside of the trim. For optimal protection, you’ll want the plywood to overlap the window frame by at least 4 inches on all sides. For example, if your window is 30×50 inches, cut the plywood to be at least 38×58 inches.
Cut the Plywood: Use a circular saw to cut the sheets to the correct size. If you’re not comfortable with this, many home improvement stores will cut the sheets for you.
Pre-Drill Holes: This is a critical step. Mark and drill holes around the perimeter of the plywood sheet, spaced every 12 to 16 inches. This will save you valuable time when the storm is approaching.
Label Each Piece: Use a permanent marker to label each piece of plywood with the window it belongs to (e.g., “Kitchen Window,” “Bedroom 1”). You can also draw an arrow to indicate which side is up. This simple step will prevent confusion during a last-minute installation.

Installation: Step-by-Step

With your materials and pre-cut plywood ready, the installation process is straightforward.

Enlist a Helper: Plywood sheets are heavy and cumbersome. Having at least one other person will make the job safer and much faster.
Align and Secure: Carefully align the labeled plywood over its corresponding window. For wood-framed homes, drive the screws through the pre-drilled holes and into the framing studs, not just the siding. For masonry, secure your chosen fasteners into the pre-drilled holes in the wall.
Check for a Snug Fit: Make sure the plywood is snug and doesn’t move. Gaps can allow wind to get underneath and tear the panel loose.

Post-Storm Care and Storage

Once the storm has passed, you can safely remove the plywood. To ensure the panels last for future seasons, inspect them for damage, clean them, and store them in a dry, flat place to prevent warping.

Plywood for Hurricane Protection: FAQs

Q: What is the recommended thickness for plywood hurricane shutters?

A: Experts recommend using at least 5/8-inch thick, exterior-grade plywood for a good balance of strength and weight.

Q: Does plywood meet building codes for hurricane protection?

A: In many cases, standard plywood shutters do not meet the stringent requirements of local building codes or insurance companies. It’s best to check with your local authority or insurer. Plywood is often considered a temporary or last-resort solution rather than a code-compliant one.

Q: Is it better to use screws or nails to secure the plywood?

A: Screws provide a much stronger hold than nails and are less likely to loosen in high winds. They also make the panels easier to remove without damaging the wood, allowing for reuse.

Q: What are the downsides of using plywood?

A: Plywood can be heavy and difficult to install alone. It can also block all natural light, leaving your home dark during a storm. If not properly prepared and stored, the panels can warp and degrade over time.

Q: Can I use plywood to protect my doors?

A: Yes. Doors, especially sliding glass and French doors, are also vulnerable. You can use the same methods to secure them, but you may need to join multiple pieces of plywood together with a 2×4 for larger openings.

Hurricane Milton

by root | Oct 9, 2024 | Hurricane News, Blog, Hurricane Preparation

Hurricane Milton which is likely to hit Florida tonight, Oct 9, 2024, and is shaping up to be the worst hurricane in at least 100 years. Milton is a category 5 hurricane, which is the highest category hurricane on the Saffir-Simpson Hurricane Wind Scale. Wind speeds have already hit a sustained speed of 160 mph according to advisories from the National Hurricane Center.

Millions of people have been told to evacuate from the impacted regions. Milton is expected to make landfall in the Tampa Bay area and experts are warning that waves could surge to 15 feet. There are nearly 6 million people in Florida across 11 counties in coastal and low-lying areas that are under MANDATORY or voluntary evacuation orders. An important point, expounded by Tampa Mayor Jane Castor, is that debris left over from Hurricane Helene two weeks ago could be picked up by Milton and used as a ‘weapon’. Even cars can be lifted by such powerful winds!

IMPORTANT: Use this link to sign up to get updates about current storms and weather events by location.

Live Video Feed of Hurricane Miltion

Hurricane Preparation: In the case of Milton, affected residents are being urged to LEAVE the expected affected areas. Refer also to our previous post “8 Important Things To Do To Prepare for a Hurricane” and our post “Prepare for Hurricane Helene” which offers some tips that you may not have heard before.

Again, Milton may turn out to be the storm of a century. Previous powerful and destructive hurricanes include:

Hurricane Katrina (2005): Katrina was a Category 5 hurricane at its peak but made landfall as a Category 3. It caused catastrophic flooding in New Orleans and is one of the costliest hurricanes in U.S. history. Milton’s wind speeds are comparable to Katrina’s peak intensity.
Hurricane Andrew (1992): Andrew was a Category 5 hurricane that caused massive destruction in South Florida. Like Milton, Andrew had sustained winds of around 150 mph, leading to extensive damage to homes and infrastructure.
Hurricane Irma (2017): Irma was a long-lived Category 5 hurricane that caused widespread damage across the Caribbean and Florida. Milton’s potential for storm surge and wind damage is similar to Irma’s impact on the Florida Keys and mainland.
Hurricane Michael (2018): Michael made landfall in the Florida Panhandle as a Category 5 hurricane, causing severe wind and storm surge damage. Milton’s expected impact on Florida’s Gulf Coast could be similar in terms of intensity and destruction.
Hurricane Dorian (2019): Dorian was a Category 5 hurricane that devastated the Bahamas with sustained winds of 185 mph. While Milton’s winds are slightly lower, the potential for catastrophic damage remains high.

All hurricanes have unique characteristics but Category 5 hurricanes like Milton are known for their extreme wind speeds, storm surges and potential for widespread devastation. It is CRUCIAL for residents in the path of this storm to heed evacuation orders and take all the necessary precautions. Do not wait until it is too late.

Plyfaster Receives Hurricane Protection System Patent

by Glenn | Mar 2, 2021 | Blog, Hurricane Preparation

PlyFASTner Plus® Installed on a new home in South Carolina

by Glenn | Jul 29, 2020 | Blog, Hurricane Preparation

One of our newest installations of the PlyFASTner Plus Hurricane Protection System is for a home located along the Stono River in the South Carolina Lowcountry, near Charleston. Our customer is a homebuilder and he served as general contractor to have this place built for himself. The local building inspector mentioned PlyFASTner Plus to him as an option that would meet the Coastal Building Code for this area. He protected more than 40 windows and doors on his traditional lowcountry style house.

The PlyFASTner system meets the requirements of the Florida Building Code, the International Building Code, and International Residential Code. PlyFASTner Plus hardware is used along with panels made of plywood (1/2” CDX or 7/16” OSB) or polycarbonate. Polycarbonate panels must have Florida Product Approval. Galina USA offers approved polycarbonate panels.

When debris driven by hurricane force wind breaks a window, wind, rain and debris will be able to enter your house and can result in significant damage. Windows and glass doors are expensive to replace but there are effective ways to protect them from damage caused by hurricanes. PlyFASTner Plus makes it easy for homeowners to prepare in advance with pre-cut plywood and pre-installed hardware. The PlyFASTner Plus System features hardware that is permanently installed in advance, so you can secure plywood panels in less than a minute per window, without using tools when a hurricane is forecast. PlyFASTner Plus has been shown to be more afforadable than hurricane shutters, making it ideal for homeowners on a smaller budget.

Don’t make the mistake of not taking steps to plan and prepare for hurricanes before it’s too late. Because hurricanes can change course and strength at any time and have enormous potential for causing catastrophic damage, it’s vitally important to prepare well in advance for them. We at Plyfastner, LLC recommend that you follow the guidelines as outlined at ready.gov, which include having a plan to keep your family safe and an having an effective method in place to protect your property from damage. Please visit plyfastner.com to learn more about our company’s history of innovation and the practical and affordable PlyFASTner Plus Hurricane Protection System.

PlyFASTner Plus® – The Affordable Alternative to Hurricane Shutters

by Glenn | Jul 24, 2020 | Blog, Hurricane Preparation

Are you looking for a cost-effective alternative to hurricane shutters? We have the answer for you!

When debris driven by hurricane force wind breaks a window, rain and debris will be able to enter your house and can result in significant damage. Windows and glass doors are expensive to replace but there are effective ways to protect them from damage caused by hurricanes.

The PlyFASTner Plus Hurricane Protection System provides a practical and economical alternative to other forms of protection for openings in houses, such as hurricane shutters. PlyFASTner Plus is ideal for homeowners on a smaller budget. PlyFASTner Plus makes it easy for homeowners to prepare in advance with pre-cut plywood and pre-installed hardware. The PlyFASTner Plus Advanced Hurricane Protection System features the PlyFASTner Plus Stow and DeployTM hardware, which is permanently installed in advance, so you can secure plywood panels in less than a minute per window, without using tools when a hurricane is forecast.

Based on 528 square feet of coverage, the national average cost for materials and contracted labor for hurricane shutters is $8,415 while PlyFASTner Plus is $1,290. High end roll-down hurricane shutters will cost considerably more. Hurricane shutters require a certified installer to meet building code while PlyFASTner Plus can be installed by a do-it-yourselfer homeowner to save even more. Hurricane shutters can be especially costly and challenging to install when a house has larger than standard window sized openings to protect, such as sliding glass doors, picture windows or glass brick “lightwalls”. PlyFASTner Plus, on the other hand, has an affordable solution for these larger openings.

There are other disadvantages to hurricane shutters. In some situations, shutters can fail and shatter in severe storms, allowing water and debris into the house, although reported incidents of hurricane shutter failure are low. Storm bars may required to secure shutters for some designs, which increases the installation time and the costs for setup. In addition, the cost of purchasing and installing hurricane shutters is quite expensive.

Not all shutters are of the same quality, even though advertised as being built to withstand hurricanes. Homeowners may decide to hire a contractor or build their own hurricane shutters. These do not meet building code requirements. They have not been tested. The PlyFASTner system was tested in accordance with ASTM E 1886, ASTM E 1996, and ASTM E 330, including the large missile test and positive and negative cyclical pressures. The system meets the requirements of the Florida Building Code, the International Building Code, and International Residential Code. The downloadable Evaluation Report will provide the required information that certifies code compliance. PlyFASTner Plus hardware is used along with panels made of plywood (1/2” CDX or 7/16” OSB) or polycarbonate. Polycarbonate panels must have Florida Product Approval. Galina USA offers approved polycarbonate panels.

Not everyone likes the look of hurricane shutters. Some think they have an industrial appearance that detracts from a home’s beauty. The PlyFASTner Plus system only requires plywood panels to be put in place temporarily when a hurricane is threatening. They are stored away in the garage at other times.

Stowed Features of our hurricane protection system

Stow and DeployTM anchoring hardware is permanently installed and concealed with protective caps during the off-season, then deployed in advance of a storm, so you can then quickly put protective plywood panels in place, without requiring any tools.

Permanently attached Colonial or Bahama style shutters can suffer UV damage from sun exposure. They will need to be painted about every three to five years. The cost to paint a house full of shutters is between $225 and $550, including paint and supplies. Plywood used with the PlyFASTner Plus Hurricane Protection System needs no paint and will last indefinitely when stored out of the weather.

Since there is much hurricane tracking and prediction information available, people often make the mistake of not taking steps to plan and prepare for them before it’s too late. Because hurricanes can change course and strength at any time and have enormous potential for causing catastrophic damage, it’s vitally important to prepare well in advance for them. We at Plyfastner, LLC recommend that you follow the guidelines as outlined at ready.gov, which include having a plan to keep your family safe and an having an effective method in place to protect your property from damage. Please visit plyfastner.com to learn more about our company’s history of innovation and the practical and affordable PlyFASTner Plus Hurricane Protection System.

PlyFASTner Plus 1-Window Packs, 9-Window Cases and individual components can be purchased online via the Plyfastner online store.

For a quick overview of Plyfastner Plus refer to this 15 second video.

Hurricane Preparation

by root | Jul 9, 2020 | Blog, Hurricane Preparation

Hurricane Preparation means getting ready before a storm hits to keep yourself and your home safe. This includes making an emergency plan, gathering supplies like food, water, and medicine, securing your home, and staying updated on weather alerts. Hurricanes are arguably the most predictable natural disaster, and because there is so much tracking and prediction information available, people often make the mistake of not taking steps to plan and prepare for them before it’s too late. Because hurricanes can change course and strength at any time and have enormous potential for causing catastrophic damage, it’s vitally important to prepare well in advance for them–we recommend being ready before hurricane season starts. This blog includes having a plan to keep your family safe and an having an effective method in place to protect your property from damage.

In 2000, residential construction specialist Robert Goodwin began development and patented the PlyFASTner® Hurricane Protection System for homes, which was the result of his desire to create a practical method for homeowners to protect their property from hurricanes in advance. He started his company, PlyFASTner, LLC in Charleston, SC shortly thereafter, to manufacture and distribute components for this system. Products developed by PlyFASTner, LLC have been effectively protecting coastal property since 2002. PlyFASTner made it easy for homeowners to prepare in advance with pre-cut plywood and pre-installed hardware. They could now quickly protect their houses by attaching plywood when a hurricane threatened. This made a practical alternative than waiting until a storm is approaching when plywood and hardware supplies are often sold out. PlyFASTner also provided a better choice than using ordinary screws or nails to attach plywood, which can likely damage your house.

Mr. Goodwin stays up to date with Coastal Building Code regulations and is an active participant in the educational activities of the Coastal Code Enforcement Association of South Carolina. He is a member of the Charleston (SC) Home Builders Association. While overseeing both manufacturing and distribution of products, Robert still enjoys personal contact with his retail sales representatives as well as homeowners. Customers and installation contractors appreciate being able to call him with questions at (843) 766-8199.

In 2020, Mr. Goodwin developed the more affordable PlyFASTner Plus® system, which makes hardware installation simpler than with his original design, so it’s even easier for homeowners to prepare in advance when a severe storm threatens. The updated design features the new PlyFASTner Plus reinforced Nylon bracket. PlyFASTner Plus, like the previous generation PlyFASTner hurricane protection system, has passed numerous tests to meet or exceed Coastal Building Code requirements for the protection of windows and doors from wind borne debris. Learn more about the PlyFASTner Plus Advanced Hurricane Protection System at plyfastner.com.

The PlyFASTner Plus Advanced Hurricane Protection System features the new PlyFASTner Plus Stow and DeployTM hardware, which is permanently installed in advance, so you can quickly put protective plywood panels in place without using tools. PlyFASTner Plus meets Coastal Building Code Requirements and can be used with either plywood (1/2˝ CDX or 7/16˝ OSB) or polycarbonate panels.

PlyFASTner Plus provides home builders and construction contractors with a practical and economical solution for meeting coastal code requirements. Please see our list of dealers here.

Visit plyfastner.com to learn more about the PlyFASTner Plus Advanced Hurricane Protection System and to locate sellers for homeowners or home builders. PlyFASTner Plus 1-Window Packs, 9-Window Cases and individual components can be purchased online via the Plyfastner online store.

For a quick overview of Plyfastner Plus refer to this 15 second video.

FAQs About Hurricane Preparation

1. What should I do before a hurricane hits?

Before a hurricane, create an emergency plan, stock up on essential supplies (food, water, medicine, and flashlights), secure your home, and stay updated with weather alerts. If you live in an evacuation zone, know your route and be ready to leave if necessary.

2. What should be in a hurricane emergency kit?

Your emergency kit should include:

Non-perishable food and water for at least 3 days
Flashlights and extra batteries
First aid supplies and medications
Important documents in a waterproof container
Cash, cell phone chargers, and emergency contacts
A battery-powered radio to receive weather updates

3. How can I protect my home before a hurricane?

Secure windows with storm shutters or plywood, reinforce doors, bring in outdoor furniture, and trim trees to prevent damage. If you’re in a flood-prone area, consider sandbags to help keep water out.

4. Should I evacuate during a hurricane?

If local authorities issue an evacuation order, it’s important to leave as soon as possible. Follow designated routes and avoid flooded roads. If you’re not in a high-risk area, stay indoors and away from windows during the storm.

5. How do I stay informed about hurricanes?

Monitor reliable sources like the National Hurricane Center (NHC), local weather stations, and emergency management offices for updates. Use a battery-powered radio in case of power outages.

6. What should I do after the hurricane passes?

Wait for officials to declare it safe before going outside. Avoid flooded areas, downed power lines, and damaged buildings. If evacuated, return home only when authorities say it’s safe.

7. How can I prepare my car for a hurricane?

Fill up your gas tank, check your battery and tires, and store emergency supplies in your vehicle. Keep your car in a garage or a secure location to avoid storm damage.