(ARA) ­ Hurricanes are the storms that make headlines, but homeowners in almost every region of the country need to focus on storm preparedness this year. From east to west, experts say homeowners are facing threats from heavy rain, wind and extreme temperature changes.

These hazards take their toll on home exteriors, and in the case of severe storms, can pose serious safety and structural threats. High winds, heavy moisture and variable temperatures also affect other factors, such as energy loss and high utility bills.

According to the National Oceanic & Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), weather-related disasters, including everything from heat waves to floods and severe thunderstorms, account for nearly $14 billion in damage throughout the country each year.

“It’s important for homeowners to understand how storms can damage the structural integrity of a house,” says Brian Hedlund, product marketing manager of JELD-WEN, a leading window and door manufacturer. “Preparing a home for serious weather can decrease the risk for major damage and also alleviate the hassle of making last-minute arrangements for when a storm arrives.”

To help protect a home, choosing the right storm protection features for windows and doors is essential. JELD-WEN experts suggest evaluating regional weather conditions to determine how to best begin protecting a home from storms.

1. Heading Off High Winds

Windows and doors are vulnerable to high winds that cause breakage, and worst-case scenario, pressure that can literally lift the roof and push the walls outward. For regions that experience severe weather with high winds, laminated glass windows and impact-rated doors offer extra protection when compared to standard windows and doors. Laminated glass uses a plastic interlayer between two panels of glass designed to resist breakage from wind-borne debris. JELD-WEN offers ImpactGard protection for windows with an interlayer that is 100 times more rigid than the industry standard. As with windows, doors that pass Miami-Dade County testing are designed to stay in place, even during severe weather.

2. Repelling Heavy Moisture

Homes take a pounding from rain, hail, snow, and even high humidity. Lengthy periods of exposure to moisture can easily deteriorate windows and doors, causing decay and inviting insect infestation. Finding products that help defend against water absorption is key for moisture protection. Shop for treated wood that’s guaranteed to resist decay and products that offer low-maintenance and high-performance benefits, such as vinyl windows and fiberglass doors.

3. Controlling Seasonal Temperatures

In areas that experience seasonal temperature fluctuations, energy efficient windows help keep homes comfortable during heat waves and cold snaps. Energy efficient windows add an extra benefit for nearly all homeowners, because they provide year-round savings on energy costs. When shopping for energy efficient windows, look for products that have Low-E glass and the ENERGY STAR label. Homeowners should also be aware that this is the last year for qualifying to receive up to $500 in federal tax credits for energy efficient upgrades at home.

Article courtesy of ARAcontent