Skip to main content
Sarasota Window Blinds
Exterior hurricane protection screens on a Southwest Florida home
Florida Living/5 min read

Best Window Treatments for Florida Hurricane Season

Published February 3, 2026

All Articles

Living on the Suncoast means enjoying incredible light and views most of the year — and preparing for hurricane season each summer. The right window treatments can make storm prep faster and, in the case of exterior screens, add a genuine layer of protection for your home. Here is how to think about your options.

Exterior Hurricane Screens

For true storm protection, exterior hurricane screens are purpose-built. Motorized systems like Fenetex roll down to shield large openings, lanais, and sliding glass doors from wind-driven debris, and they retract completely out of sight when not in use. Beyond storm season, the same screens help with sun control, insect protection, and privacy on an outdoor living space — making them a year-round investment rather than a seasonal one.

Motorized Shades for Fast, Easy Closing

When a storm is approaching, the last thing you want is to walk the whole house adjusting each window. Motorized and smart shades let you close every treatment at once from your phone or a single button. Scheduling and scene control also help while you are away — a home that adjusts its own shades looks lived-in and keeps interiors cooler.

Protecting Interiors From Sun and Heat

Even outside of storms, Florida sun is relentless. Solar and honeycomb shades reduce heat gain and block UV rays that fade furniture and flooring. Pairing interior shades with exterior protection gives you both everyday comfort and peace of mind when weather turns.

  • Exterior hurricane screens — real debris protection for lanais, sliders, and large openings.
  • Motorized shades — close the whole home quickly before you leave or hunker down.
  • Solar shades — cut heat and glare while preserving the view during bright summer days.
  • Honeycomb shades — added insulation to keep interiors cooler and lower cooling costs.

Plan Before the Season Starts

Custom exterior screens are made to fit your specific openings, so the best time to plan is well before the first named storm. A consultation lets us measure your lanai and windows, recommend the right combination of interior and exterior products, and get everything installed ahead of the season.

Ready to Explore Your Options?

Every home is different. Book a free in-home design consultation and we'll help you choose the right window treatments for your space, style, and budget.

Browse the Gallery
Good to Know

Frequently asked questions

What window treatments help most during Florida hurricane season?

For storm protection specifically, impact windows and doors and custom exterior/hurricane screens do the real structural work of guarding against wind and debris. Interior treatments like shades and shutters add everyday light control and privacy but are not a substitute for impact-rated protection. Many Sarasota and Manatee homes use a combination: impact glass or screens for the storm, and interior shades for daily comfort.

When should I plan storm-season window treatments?

Plan well before the first named storm. Custom exterior screens and impact products are built to fit your exact openings, so there is lead time for measuring, ordering, and installation. Booking a consultation in the off-season means everything is in place before peak hurricane season arrives.

Explore Next

Ready to bring this to your home?