Originally, builders and specialty storm shutter installers used galvanized steel to protect windows, simply because it was the only long-term reusable material available offering adequate protection during intense storms. But steel shutters have many problems, including high weight, difficult installation, rusting over time, and even the potential for injury during handling and installation, due to sharp panel edges. Advances in specialty alloys led to the use of aluminum panels, which made for a lighter panel, but didn't resolve the issue of injury due to sharp edges. Worse still, aluminum panels brought yet another problem -- susceptibility to damage during transit, storage and installation due to denting and deformation.

But anyone who has ever spent any length of time in a steel or aluminum shuttered home or business will immediately recognize the biggest problem of all with these materials - TOTAL DARKNESS.

 With all windows covered, every area of the structure's interior becomes pitch black. And as everyone knows, power outages during an intense storm or hurricane are virtually guaranteed, leaving the occupants dependent on either candles or flashlights.

 Given the facts, it's no wonder that home and business owners everywhere are discarding old-fashioned metal panels and switching to SPEAS CLEAR STORM PANELS. Offering superior weight advantages over aluminum panels, as well as the dent-resistance of steel panels, SPEAS CLEAR STORM PANELS additionally offers smooth panel edges, greatly reducing the chance of injury during handling and installation. SPEAS CLEAR STORM PANELS panels meet or exceed regulations for hurricane shutters as set forth by the SBCCI for Large Missile Impacts (SSTD 12-99) and Uniform Static Air Pressure (ASTM E 330) as well as the Florida Building Code and more stringent Metro-Dade requirements (Acceptance # 00-0524.14).

• TOTALLY TRANSPARENT PANELS

Best of all, SPEAS CLEAR STORM PANELS panels are completely transparent, offering up to 85% light transmittance. This high level of clarity allows the occupants to view firsthand outside storm conditions and to make informed decisions during crucial storm periods.

 With SPEAS CLEAR STORM PANELS panels installed, you are no longer dependent o n candles or flashlights. Virtually all available ambient daylight is transmitted directly into your home or business with SPEAS CLEAR STORM PANELS, giving you a safer, more normal environment.

• ADDITIONAL SECURITY

Due to its high light transmittance (similar to glass), SPEAS CLEAR STORM PANELS panels can be seasonally installed in hard to reach areas such as upper stories, or as an additional security measure to protect windows from breakage due to vandalism or attempted robbery.

 INSTALLATION EASE

 Installation of SPEAS CLEAR STORM PANELS is quick and easy, and in most cases requires little or no modifications and additions to existing framing systems. SPEAS STORM SHUTTERS can handle all aspects of your installation efficiently and economically. Give them a call today to see first hand the dramatic, clear improvement SPEAS CLEAR STORM PANELS will make in your home or business.