Hurricane Fabric FAQ
A guide to choosing and planning a fabric hurricane protection system for exterior openings.
The short answer
Hurricane fabric is a purpose-built storm protection system secured over an exterior opening using its specified mounting hardware. It is not ordinary insect mesh, shade cloth or a tarp. Protection depends on the approved fabric system, its attachment and the clearance required by its installation documents.
Explore Hurricane Fabric and get a custom quote or call 1-888-474-3555.
Fabric hurricane protection versus ordinary screens
A hurricane fabric system uses a specific material and fastening design. A similar-looking porch screen or sunshade is not interchangeable with it. When comparing products, ask for the exact model, approval and installation instructions instead of judging protection by fabric thickness or appearance.
The approved drawing sets the limits for opening size, mounting substrate, fasteners and clearance from the protected opening. There is no single anchor spacing or standoff distance that applies to every fabric product.
Fabric or removable storm panels?
Compare how you will deploy, remove and store each system. Fabric avoids handling rigid panels, while storm panels have their own material, track and fastening choices. Both require a plan for reaching the openings safely and keeping the correct components together.
For a property you visit only occasionally, decide who will install the protection before a storm. A product that is easy to store still needs someone available to deploy it. Accordion or rolling shutters may also be worth comparing if permanent mounting and frequent operation are priorities.
What information belongs in your quote?
Measure and label each exterior opening. Add photos showing the surrounding wall, mounting surfaces and obstructions. Tell the office about doors that must remain usable and openings that are difficult to reach.
Do not substitute finished fabric dimensions for rough opening measurements without confirming what the quote field requests. The office reviews the dimensions and hardware with you before the order is finalized.
- Opening width and height, with a unique label for each location.
- Wall material and clear space around the opening.
- Photos of trim, railings or other mounting obstructions.
- Delivery ZIP code or international destination.
Practice deployment and store the system properly
Test the mounting arrangement in calm weather. Confirm that the panels are labeled, the hardware is complete and the person responsible can follow the installation instructions. Avoid leaving the first trial until a storm is approaching.
Follow the manufacturer instructions for cleaning, drying and storage. Inspect the fabric and attachments for damage before reuse. Ask about replacement components that are approved for the exact system rather than substituting generic hardware.
Common questions
Is hurricane fabric the same as a hurricane screen?
The names can overlap in marketing, but the exact product system matters. Verify the model and approval. Ordinary insect screens and shade fabrics should not be treated as hurricane protection.
Can hurricane fabric cover a large opening?
That depends on the approved system, dimensions, mounting surface and project requirements. Send the measurements and photos to the office for review instead of assuming a universal maximum size.
Can I install hurricane fabric myself?
A suitable DIY installation must follow the exact product instructions and local requirements. We supply the product; you arrange installation and any contractor or handyman you need.
Does the online quote include shipping?
The office calculates shipping after reviewing your custom order and delivery destination. You approve dimensions, options and the final total before order payment is collected.