Prevent Smash/grab Or Break' Ins!!!

[The Window Guy]

I sell and install 3M Safety & Security Window Film designed to deter smash & grabs or break' ins for the residential/commercial markets.
This product is clear/tinted and is designed to laminate the glass like a car windshield. It is the same product we have been installing as of late for hurricane protection.
Please call 850-687-0646 for a free estimate.

Steve
S.C. Designing, Inc.
Window Tinting/Window Treatments

 

[yippie]

Does the State of Florida certify this as hurricane treatment? I have heard pros and cons....

 

[Lisa Ruby]

My insurer discounts premiums and considers the 3M product as hurricane and theft protection, but only the 3M product....premium went down $300 dollars this year, I was so afraid it was a cancellation notice rather than just my annual statement!!

 

[The Window Guy]

Thanks for the replies! Many homeowner insurance companies recognize only the 3M Window film because of its' unique structure/performance.
Although it not a Florida code certified product, it has passed the small missile impact test. The film is rate to 130 mph +.
It is a very cost effective 24/7 window protection devise. I have installed many homes/businesses here in the Panhandle and the south.
Glass is your weakest link in protecting your home from hurricane damage.
Once a window/glass has been broken/opened wind/water will cause great damage. Keeping the glass area intact will prevent this.
Remember if money where no object we would all have exterior shutters!
Plywood can be too heavy to install and shutters too costly, window film could be the answer for your budget/situation.
Call me anytime with questions/comments.
Steve
S.C. Designing, Inc. 850-687-0646

 

[yippie]

But, does the State of Florida recgonize this as "Approved Hurricane Protection?" I took advantage of the MyFloridaHome program where they come out and inspect your home, then will match what you spend to make your home more durable to hurricanes.

Stupidly, they don't give you a real list of the items they will reimburse you for.

I phoned 3 M and they said they did not know if they were approved. But, they did mention that the film covers the glass only and the window may not shatter, but the entire window could come out in one piece if it took a blow.

Then I further looked at impact glass. I learned that if you don't have the frame that goes with impact glass, (impace resistant frame), then you could be spending in vain. The glass may not break, but the frame would not withstand the force.

So needless to say, I am a little frustrated at the entire situation.

So, does Florida recgonize this as approved hurricane protection?

 

[Lisa Ruby]

My understanding is that yes, it is Miami-Dade approved up to something like 120mph or whatever their minimum wind speed for approval. Different companies may or may not have this product on their list, the company I'm insured with is First Protective.

 

[yippie]

My understanding is that yes, it is Miami-Dade approved up to something like 120mph or whatever their minimum wind speed for approval. Different companies may or may not have this product on their list, the company I'm insured with is First Protective.

Oh. So I need to call my insurance company. I am with Nationwide and I thought a metal roof would give me a break, but it doesn't.

When this is applied, is it only applied to the glass? So the window would blow out in one piece, or is it applied some other way that gives it more strength.

Also, there is something about how far from the beach you are, some type of zone for things to be approved or not approved.

Anyone know anything about that?

 

[Lisa Ruby]

There are a couple of ways it can be applied depending on what type windows you have. It holds together any potential broken glass and strengthens the window. I am a couple of blocks from the beach, priced shutters and decided it was a good option for me since it's much cheaper and I would never have to worry about putting up and/or securing fixed shutters. It did not noticably change the appearance of my windows, but you can choose from several tints if you also want some sun protection.

 

[Jdarg]

Oh. So I need to call my insurance company. I am with Nationwide and I thought a metal roof would give me a break, but it doesn't.

When this is applied, is it only applied to the glass? So the window would blow out in one piece, or is it applied some other way that gives it more strength.

Also, there is something about how far from the beach you are, some type of zone for things to be approved or not approved.

Anyone know anything about that?

Wind Pool. It limits your options for wind insurance carriers if your home is located in the wind pool area.

Does anybody know what other companies are writing new (not renewal) wind policies in SoWal (yes we are in the WInd Pool here) other than Citizens? I seem to remember a few people getting quotes from AIG, but were the policies ever issued?

 

[The Window Guy]

Thanks again for the comments.
First off, the 3M film is a great alternative for the right scenerio.
Each home/homeowner has different parameters as far as what type of hurricane product is best.
A) Money, type of construction, window frame, date home was built, wind location and again MONEY!!!!!
To set the record straight NO WINDOW FILM IS FLORIDA BUILDING CODE APPROVED!
With that said, again many insurance carries recommend the product and my company. Unless you are building new, it does not matter. This is a retro-fit application. Like all hurricane products it is designed for a peripheral hit by a hurricane. If you get a direct cat 4-5 hurricane, just about everything is severely damaged. Your windows may be intact but the roof is gone. You try to protect yourself the best you can based on your economic situation. 3M film offers substantial protection for your home or business.
It can wihtstand winds up to 130 +/-. If you have a well built home and good window frames it will work very well. I want a Ferrari; but I cannot afford one, so I buy the next best value for my ecomonic situation. Are there better products then film, yes. Are they much more expensive, yes!
You need to do what is right for you. If your insurance carry will give you a discount; as many do, then it can work for you!
Good Luck and stay protected.

Steve @ S.C. Designing, Inc. (An authorized 3M film dealer with over 20 years experience)
850-687-0646