When you want the best, Hughes is the only CLEAR choice!!
Storm Panel / Impact Window / Security Panel & Energy Saver all in ONE!
Frequently Asked Questions
Why does Hughes use flat polycarbonate?
Polycarbonate is one of the strongest plastics available for clear, see-thru applications. It is marketed under many names like Lexan, Tuffak, Hyzod, Palsun, Implast, Polygal and Makrolon to name a few. When used as a glass substitute, it is 250 times stronger than glass but only half the weight and it has superior sound and thermal properties. That's why it’s used in the aerospace industry and 300+ MPH racecars. Unlike flimsy, corrugated designs that distort your view, Hughes Wind Shields' flat panel design will allow you to leave them up year round for a safe, unobstructed view of what's going on outside.
What makes Hughes Wind Shields so revolutionary and better than any polycarbonate hurricane protection?
Hughes Wind Shields protect your home, property and family in other ways, too. The main function of these shutters is to stop the winds and flying debris that occur during category 5 hurricane conditions, however they also add security. Hughes Wind Shields are no substitute for a security system and aren‘t burglar "proof", but hammers, crowbars and glass cutters are useless in any attempt to break through the polycarbonate panels!! Unsuspecting intruders will have no idea what they’re up against because Hughes Wind Shields are almost impossible to spot. From the street there is nothing to indicate that a barrior awaits. Unlike unsightly “burglar bars”, Hughes even offers units that open from the inside for egress in case of fire! Revolutionary?? YOU BET THEY ARE!
Where should I use Hughes Wind Shields?
Hughes Wind Shields can be installed on your home, business, church or anywhere hurricane protection is needed or government mandated. We offer both residential and commercial design packages. The totally transparent, optically clear design eliminates the “dungeon” effect caused by plywood, corrugated metal, roll-down shutter and other opaque materials so you can leave them up year 'round. Also, rocks and debris from lawnmowers, trimmers and edgers simply bounce off. If you live on or near a golf facility you’ll be pleased to learn that broken windows from errant golf balls are also a thing of the past with Hughes.
I live in a condo or deed restricted community.Will my association approve this product?
Hughes Wind Shields are almost invisible and can be left up all year so communities and associations love them. In many cases they can actually improve the look of the building while adding 24/7 protection. If you have any concerns about their acceptance, please put us in contact with your association officials and we will be happy to present your wishes to them.
We aren't in a hurricane area but our church has very old stained glass windows that, if broken, can never be replaced. Will your product help?
With Hughes Windshields your cherished stained glass will not only be protected from storms, but also acts of vandalism and maintenance damage from ladders or errant tools. Simply installing ANY type of glass against the exterior of your windows WILL NOT provide adequate protection. We have already designed/installed protection for stained glass window units in churches from standard window sizes all the way up to 14 ft. x 22 ft. Check out the results of this project in the Gallery. Replacement costs for true stained glass windows have skyrocketed in recent years. And after you leave our website, we encourage you to visit ALL of the others and see how many show a clear view from the inside looking out.
I already have impact windows/hurricane film installed on my windows. Why would I need storm panels?
If you are a homeowner who has already foreseen the benefits of adding hurricane protection to your home, let Hughes Wind Shields protect your investment while you reap the other benefits that Hughes Wind Shields offer. While impact windows and hurricane films are great ideas at first glance, in reality they fall far short in the area of performance. Simply stated, the windows still break upon impact. Click on the link below and you will see a comparison between popular hurricane window film, impact windows and Hughes Wind Shields.
Hughes Wind Shields are less expensive than impact windows or roll down shutters. They’re more durable, too! We’ve tested these units with repeated air cannon shots of projectiles traveling OVER 50 mph. Try that with impact glass or roll down shutters - 1 shot is all they can handle and then you can start adding up your repair/replacement costs. Not so with Hughes!! With reduced electric bills, lower insurance premiums and no broken glass to replace, maybe you can’t afford NOT to pick Hughes Wind Shields over other brands of hurricane protection. In some areas you may even be eligible for an energy saving rebate to lower the cost of your Hughes Wind Shields EVEN MORE!
I’m building a new home. Are there any special preparations needed to have Hughes Wind Shields installed?
A smooth, square opening works best. Inform your builder that you intend to use Hughes Wind Shields on your home. We will be happy to work with him/her to assure you of a correct fit. Also investigate the windows that are being installed in your home. You may opt for changing your windows from impact rated to super high thermally efficiency models. That way more of your construction dollars can be spent making your home more energy efficient while you reap the many benefits of Hughes Wind Shields. Ask your builder about new government rebate programs before making your window glazing choice.
This all sounds terrific. What will my insurance company say?
Because Hughes Wind Shields have been tested to exceed the large missile impact requirements of the State of Florida (including Miami-Dade), discounts have been offered by Citizens Insurance to our clients. Citizen Insurance has also determined that our product is approved for the new 2009 statutes for hurricane mitigation. Accordingly, all insurance companies should offer the maximum discount when Hughes Wind Shields are installed. Check with your agent to see how much you will save. In addition to reducing your homeowner insurance costs, just wait until you check your next electric bill! The more you save on your energy costs, the faster Hughes Wind Shields pay for themselves. Check with your local energy provider to see if before/after testing is available and what other money back rebates may result from installation.
That’s great! Sign me up!
Not so fast………..there’s more. If you've ever been through a tropical storm, one of the most memorable parts is the noise. Hurricane protection that require a track and roller systems or those comprised of multiple panels fastened in place can actually crate noise during a storm. Hughes Wind Shields actually work to reduce the noises during a storm so that children and pets stay calmer. If you live in a noisy neighborhood, have a lawn maintenance service that shows up when you want peace and quiet or you simply want to keep outside noises where they belong, the same airspace that helps on your energy bill also acts as a sound barrier. Another bonus is the UV filter that is built into Palsun polycarbonate sheets. This reduces the amount of harmful UV rays that stream in through standard glass windows and cause fading of carpet and upholstery fabrics.
OK. So now what?
Now you need to contact Hughes Wind Shields to schedule an appointment to get your free estimate. The sooner you start protecting your home, property, investments and family, the better off you will be.
