Affordable Protection for West Central Florida
Living in West Central Florida means dealing with the reality of hurricane season every year. Many homeowners fall into the “plywood trap,” rushing to local hardware stores when a storm enters the Gulf. Plywood is heavy, difficult to store, and often fails to meet the strict Florida Building Code.
Cat 5 Hurricane Installation offers a professional alternative: high-strength removable storm panels. These systems provide a tested, one-time investment that secures your home without the stress of last-minute construction projects.
Hurricane Shutter Protection: Aluminum and Polycarbonate Panels
Removable storm panels are professional-grade barriers made of corrugated aluminum or clear polycarbonate. These panels slide into permanently installed tracks, providing a tested shield against flying debris and hurricane-force winds.
They are a cost-effective alternative to permanent shutters for Florida homeowners seeking reliable, code-approved protection.
Durable Aluminum and Lightweight Clear Options
We offer two primary types of removable panels to fit your budget and needs. Our 0.050″ aluminum panels are the industry standard for durability. They are much lighter than old-fashioned steel panels but provide the same Category 5 protection.
For those who don’t want to sit in the dark during a power outage, we specialize in clear polycarbonate panels. Often called Lexan, these panels are virtually indestructible and allow natural light to fill your home while the storm rages outside.
High-Velocity Impact Testing
In Florida, “strong” isn’t enough; your protection must be certified. Our panels are tested to withstand the ASTM E1996 Large Missile Impact Test. This means they can take a direct hit from a 9-pound 2×4 board traveling at 34 miles per hour without failing.
Expert Citation: According to the 2026 Florida Building Code, storm protection in High Velocity Hurricane Zones (HVHZ) must resist wind pressures exceeding 150 mph. Our systems are engineered to surpass these requirements.
Feature | Aluminum Panels | Polycarbonate (Clear) | Plywood (DIY) |
Material Strength | High | Maximum | Low |
Visibility | None | Total | None |
Weight | Light | Very Light | Heavy |
Storage | Nested Stacks | Nested Stacks | Bulky |
Code Approved | Yes | Yes | No |
Protecting Windows with Clear Polycarbonate Panels
Polycarbonate storm panels offer the same impact resistance as metal but allow natural light into the home. These clear panels eliminate the “cave-in” feeling during a power outage. They are lightweight, easy to handle, and meet all 2026 Florida Building Code requirements for residential and commercial use.
Better Visibility and Safety
The biggest downside to metal shutters is the total darkness they create. With clear polycarbonate panels, you can monitor the weather and check for falling trees or rising water levels safely from inside.
This visibility is vital for seniors in communities near Heritage Pines or Sun City Center who want to stay aware of their surroundings.
Simple Installation Process
We install a permanent track system, usually an "F-Track," above and below your windows. This makes deployment a simple three-step process:
- Clear any debris from the tracks.
- Slide the panels into place.
- Secure the panels with corrosion-resistant wing nuts.
Expert Installation from Sarasota to the Nature Coast
SGE Summary: Cat 5 Hurricane Installation provides custom-fit storm panels across the Suncoast. From waterfront homes near St. Armands Circle to inland properties in Pasco County, we ensure every panel is cut to size, and every track is anchored to withstand Category 5 pressure and high-velocity debris.
Local Knowledge, Local Service
Our team knows the specific challenges of our local geography. For homes near Weedon Island or Homosassa Springs, salt-air corrosion is a constant threat. We use 316-grade stainless steel hardware to ensure your tracks don't rust shut.
Whether you are in the historic districts of Ybor City or a new build in Starkey Wilderness Park, we follow the exact municipal codes for your county.
Serving Businesses and Condos
We install a permanent track system, usually an "F-Track," above and below your windows. This makes deployment a simple three-step process:
- Clear any debris from the tracks.
- Slide the panels into place.
- Secure the panels with corrosion-resistant wing nuts.
Why Choose Cat 5 Hurricane Installation?
We understand that for residents between 40 and 80 years old, heavy lifting is a deal-breaker. That is why we focus on lightweight aluminum and polycarbonate.
- The "No-Guesswork" Labeling: We label every single panel (e.g., "Master Bedroom - Left"). You won't have to solve a puzzle when the wind starts picking up.
- FBC Compliance: Every system we install has a valid Florida Product Approval number.
- Precision Fit: We custom-cut every panel at our local shop to ensure a perfect seal against wind-driven rain.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are removable storm panels as strong as accordion shutters?
While accordion shutters are more convenient to deploy, the impact rating for removable panels is the same. Both are designed to stop flying debris and prevent your windows from blowing out during a hurricane.
Do I need a permit to install hurricane panels?
In most counties, like Pinellas and Hillsborough, a permit is required to install the permanent tracks. Cat 5 Hurricane Installation handles the entire permitting process for you, ensuring your home stays code-compliant.
How do I store my storm panels so they don't get damaged?
Aluminum and polycarbonate panels are designed to "nest" together. This allows a whole house's worth of protection to fit in a small vertical stack in your garage or shed. We recommend keeping them in a dry area away from direct chemicals.
Can I mix clear panels with aluminum panels?
Many of our clients choose aluminum for most windows to save on costs but use clear panels for the kitchen or living room to let in light. This "Clear-Metal-Clear" pattern is a very popular and cost-effective strategy.
Secure Your Suncoast Home Today
Don’t wait until the local news starts tracking a tropical depression. Cat 5 Hurricane Installation is ready to provide you with a reliable, affordable storm protection strategy. We serve Sarasota, Manatee, Hillsborough, Pinellas, Pasco, Hernando, and Citrus Counties.
Contact us today for a free estimate and discover why removable storm panels are the smartest investment for your Florida home.