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Start Preparing for an Explosive 2024 Hurricane Season
The 2024 Atlantic hurricane season predictions are in, and we are in for an extremely active and aggressive six months, possibly even record-breaking. The Colorado State University forecast predicts the 2024 season will have above-normal activity, including 4 to 7 major hurricanes, defined as being category three or higher, bringing winds of at least 111mph.
What factors led meteorologists to these conclusions? Well, it’s a combination of two strong indicators. The first is the record-setting warm surface temperatures of the Atlantic, Caribbean Sea and Gulf of Mexico. Combine that with a quick transition to La Niña conditions, and it’s an environment ripe for hurricanes. These factors have led many forecasters to believe that 2024 could surpass the existing record of 30 named storms in one season.
Which state is the most likely to have at least one major hurricane? You guessed it – Florida. According to the Colorado State forecast, the Gulf Coast and panhandle are especially at risk with a 42% chance, significantly higher than the historical average of 27%.
Why Impact Windows and Doors are a Must-Have
Florida is historically the hardest hit during hurricane season, and, as previously mentioned, the most likely to endure a major hurricane in the 2024 season. The most recent major storm to hit Florida was Hurricane Ian, making landfall in September 2022, and proving to be the costliest in Florida history at $109 billion in damages.
The consistent destruction from hurricanes in the Sunshine State has made insurance coverage difficult to secure. In fact, the state passed legislation requiring insurance policies to cover hurricane damage, but it is not comprehensive. Most policies exclude flood damage, which was estimated to account for about 23% of the damages from Hurricane Ian.
Suffice it to say, that constructing buildings with hurricane-resistant glass in all windows and doors is vital for any structure in Florida.
The Need for Impact Glass in Commercial Spaces
Impact glass is the gold standard for hurricane-resistant windows and doors. Designed to withstand extreme winds and flying debris or objects, it provides an extra layer of security. Impact glass is also watertight, preventing damage from storm surges or flooding.
As a business owner, impact glass saves time and money, eliminating the need for storm shutters and boarding and significantly reducing subsequent storm damage.
One perfect example of the strength and power of impact glass is Aldora’s SMI-175 Series. This window wall system features a non-weep that stops water, wind and temperatures. The thick-walled construction allows for large glass panels, making these window systems ideal for office buildings and multi-family facilities that need to capitalize on a breathtaking ocean view.
Hurricane Resistant Windows in Your Coastal Building
Aldora has a wide range of products and systems that are ideal for any commercial building within the path of hurricane activity. All impact glass windows, doors and storefront systems are built to Florida Building Code and customized to meet your design needs.
Among the array of options is the K2-Breeze Single Hung impact door. This Cabana commercial impact door offers some of the highest design pressures in the market. The time of having to choose between hurricane resistance and ventilation is behind us. This highly functional door has an operable single-hung in the top panel, is completely hurricane resistant, and is water-rated to 13.5 pounds.
Other impact glass products from Aldora include:
Aldora for Hurricane-Resistant Storefront Systems
While hurricane season 2024 is officially underway as of June 1st, it is not too late to ensure your facility is adequately prepared for what the coming months may have in store. While traditional impact windows require at least eight weeks to dry, Aldora’s RapidGlaze process shortens the dry time to only five weeks.
With seven locations total, including three throughout Florida, and one in South Carolina, you can be sure that we can maintain our quick turnaround times for impact glass orders in all areas expected to have heavy hurricane activity in the 2024 Atlantic season.