Step 1: Measure the Panels and Windows

Start by making level marks at the top and bottom sides of the window, about 4 inches outside the window frame.

Measure the hurricane panels and the window.

Step 2: Choose a Mounting System

Carefully calculate where to drill for the storm-panel mounting hardware, which comes with the panels.

Note: There are two systems for mounting storm panels:

Panel Mate Mounting System. This system is like a wood lag that you can drill straight into the opening whether it is concrete or wood. Note that your regular drill may not do the job. You'll need a hammer drill, which works like a jackhammer, for concrete. Simply drive in the lag screw into the surface and top off temporarily with a protective rubber cap in case you want to paint.

Lead Anchor System (Image 1). With this system, the lead anchor is threaded so you can apply a zinc insert (Image 2) with a lead shield. Drill the holes and pop in the hardware. The lead locks the hardware into the concrete.

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    Image 1

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    Image 2

Step 3: Install the Panels

To install the panels for either system, work up from the bottom and overlap each interlocking piece.

Screw sidewalk bolts into each lead anchor to hold the panels in place, or if you chose the panel mate mounting system, simply fasten them with wing nuts.