The Southern Shade Blog

As Hurricane Erin churns its way up the East Coast, North Carolina is once again reminded of just how vulnerable our homes—and especially our windows—can be when the Atlantic flexes its muscles. Erin, now a sprawling Category 2 hurricane, isn’t expected to make direct landfall, but that doesn’t mean she’s harmless. With storm surge warnings in effect, rip currents pulling strong swimmers under, and waves topping 20 feet forecast along the Outer Banks, the storm is already reshaping our shoreline and our daily routines.

Governor Josh Stein has declared a state of emergency, and evacuations are in motion for Hatteras and Ocracoke Islands. If you’re in coastal North Carolina, you already know: the water is the real danger here. Erin’s vast wind field is pushing water toward our shores, threatening flooding, and eroding protective dunes.

Hurricanes and North Carolina: A Familiar Battle

North Carolina is no stranger to hurricanes. Our unique geography—with barrier islands like the Outer Banks and a long stretch of low-lying coastline—makes us especially vulnerable to storm surge and flooding. Even when the eye of a hurricane never crosses our state line, we still feel the sting of high winds, power outages, and coastal erosion.

It’s why preparedness is so critical. And while most of us think first of sandbags, batteries, and bottled water (all smart moves), windows deserve a spot at the top of the hurricane prep checklist too.

Why Windows Matter in a Storm

Windows are often the most fragile part of a home during a hurricane. High winds can rattle them, debris can shatter them, and once a window is compromised, wind and rain funnel straight into your home, causing damage that spreads fast.

Here are a few practical things North Carolina homeowners can do:

• Check seals and caulking: Before a storm arrives, walk around your house and make sure there aren’t any gaps where water can sneak in.
• Close your blinds, shutters, or shades: Believe it or not, interior window treatments like honeycomb shades, roller shades, or plantation shutters can provide a little extra buffer if glass breaks. They won’t stop a hurricane, but they can help slow flying shards of glass and keep debris from scattering across the room.
• Install storm shutters if you’re in a high-risk area: For homes right on the coast, exterior storm shutters or impact-resistant windows are your best defense.
• Remove outdoor hazards: Patio furniture, grills, and even potted plants can turn into airborne projectiles. Secure them or bring them inside before the winds pick up.

After the Storm

Once Erin (or any storm) passes, resist the urge to fling your windows open right away. Inspect them carefully for cracks, leaks, or damage around the frame. If water got inside, even just a little, you’ll want to dry things out quickly to avoid mold.

What If Your Drapes or Blinds Get Wet?

Sometimes, despite your best efforts, rain can find its way in. If your drapes, blinds, or shades end up soaked, here’s how to limit the damage:

• Act quickly – The longer fabric or wood stays damp, the higher the risk of mold, mildew, and warping.
• Fabric drapes or curtains – Take them down and shake off excess water outside. Hang them somewhere airy to dry. If they’re heavily soaked, a gentle wash may be needed—just don’t let them sit balled up in a basket.
• Wood blinds or shutters – Wipe with a soft cloth immediately, then leave slats open so air circulates. This helps prevent warping.
• Honeycomb or roller shades – Blot with a towel to remove moisture, then use a fan in the room to speed up drying. Avoid soaking them further.
• Check later for hidden damage – Stains, warping, or mildew can show up days later. If replacement is needed, that’s when calling in Prestigious Window Fashions makes sense.

Final Thoughts

Hurricane Erin has already proven she’s no ordinary storm—rapidly intensifying to a Category 5 over the weekend before easing to a Category 2. That kind of explosive growth is a reminder of how unpredictable hurricane season can be in North Carolina. Protecting your windows—whether with proper sealing, shutters, or even durable blinds and shades—helps reduce storm damage and keep your home safe. And if blinds, drapes, or shutters get wet, quick action can prevent lasting harm. For homeowners across Raleigh, Durham, and beyond, Prestigious Window Fashions is here after the storm with expert solutions to repair, refresh, or replace your window treatments with style and peace of mind.