Living along the Carolina coast brings unmatched beauty—sunrises over the ocean, mild winters, and a lifestyle centered around the outdoors. But with coastal living also comes the responsibility of preparing for hurricane season. If you’ve invested in a sunroom, patio enclosure, or porch conversion, taking the right steps to protect it during severe weather is crucial.
At Southern Exposure Sunrooms, we’ve spent 20 years helping homeowners in Wilmington, Myrtle Beach, and the RDU area enjoy their sunrooms year-round. Here are some essential tips for safeguarding your three season sunroom, 4 seasons sunroom, or custom enclosure when storm season rolls in.
1. Inspect Windows and Doors
High winds and flying debris put sunroom glass at risk. Before storm season, check your PGT windows and doors for any cracks, loose seals, or weakened hardware. Reinforcing these with storm shutters or protective coverings can provide an added layer of security.
2. Clear the Surrounding
Your sunroom may be built to last, but outdoor items around it can become projectiles during a hurricane. Secure or store patio furniture, grills, potted plants, and décor. Keeping the area around your sunroom clear minimizes the risk of impact damage.
3. Reinforce the Roof and Structure
Professional sunroom builders design enclosures to withstand coastal conditions, but over time, wear and tear can weaken structural integrity. Have your roof, connections, and fasteners inspected to ensure they’re secure. Preventative maintenance now can save costly repairs later.
4. Seal and Protect Against Water Intrusion
Driving rain is a common issue during hurricanes. Make sure all caulking and weatherstripping are intact around your sunroom’s windows and entryways. If you have a patio enclosure or porch conversion, sealing joints and seams helps keep water from seeping in.
5. Consider Solar Shades for Added Protection
Solar shades do more than reduce heat and glare—they also provide an added layer of privacy and protection. During storm prep, lowering shades can help shield the interior of your sunroom from flying debris and rain spray while keeping your furniture protected.
6. Have a Professional Inspection
Before hurricane season peaks, schedule a professional assessment. An experienced contractor can spot potential vulnerabilities you may overlook and recommend reinforcements that make sense for your specific type of sunroom—whether it’s a three season sunroom designed for mild conditions or a fully insulated 4 seasons sunroom built for year-round use.
Protect Your Investment with Southern Exposure Sunrooms
Your sunroom is more than just an addition—it’s a place where your family relaxes, entertains, and enjoys coastal living. Preparing it for hurricane season helps ensure it remains a safe, enjoyable space for years to come.
If you live in Wilmington, Myrtle Beach, or the RDU area, Southern Exposure Sunrooms is here to help with inspections, upgrades, and expert advice tailored to your home. Contact us today to schedule a consultation and make sure your sunroom is ready for the season ahead.