Get your home weather-proof with expert advice from JMD

Imagine coming home after a long day at work, only to find rainwater seeping through poorly sealed windows or doors. Or picture yourself on a stormy, cyclonic night, forced to step outside into the wind and rain to secure rattling windows… Sound familiar?

The best way to avoid these frustrating situations is to be properly equipped. We asked JMD’s openings expert for advice on ensuring reliable protection against cyclonic conditions. Gregory Piat, Sales Manager at JMD, tells us more on how to get weather-proof with their products.

Gregory, for homeowners looking to upgrade their homes against adverse weather conditions, what do you consider the most important factor?

When it comes to openings, resilience is essential to ensure homeowners have peace of mind. This is a core principle at JMD. We consistently innovate to strengthen the durability of our openings, making them more resistant to extreme weather conditions. We are known for our aluminium shutters, which are specifically designed to protect homes against both extreme weather conditions and intrusion. Made from high-quality, grade-A aluminium, they are engineered to withstand wind speeds of up to 280 km/h. These shutters act as a barrier against flying debris, reducing the risk of damage to windows and doors. We have also recently expanded our range of roller shutters, introducing wider sizes for open terraces and new blade types to cater to diverse needs. Additionally, a newly introduced sliding system enables homeowners to install larger openings without compromising cyclone resistance.

What features make aluminium doors and windows exceptionally durable and resilient?

Aluminium is highly resistant to corrosion, which makes it an ideal material for long-term applications in Mauritius' tropical and coastal climate. Its strength and stability prevent warping, bending, or cracking…provided it is of high quality and well-designed of course! At JMD we use premium weather seals to prevent water infiltration and maintain a stable indoor environment. Additionally reinforced frames designed by JMD engineers enhance structural integrity, ensuring resilience against strong winds and heavy rain.

That being said, while material quality is crucial, proper design and installation play a massive role in ensuring cyclone resistance. We follow strict engineering guidelines to reinforce sections of openings and prevent structural failure during storms. Thanks to our team’s expertise, we provide homeowners with airtight, high-quality solutions such as casement windows.

Speaking of casement windows, what advantages do these openings offer in terms of sealing and protection against high winds and rain?

Casement windows and doors are designed to close tightly against their frames, which helps keep wind and rain from entering a home during cyclones. Unlike the old “Naco” windows, which may have had small gaps between the glass, casement windows are hinged at the side and press firmly into place by its locking mechanism, creating strong compression of the gaskets, which enhances the seal.

Are there particular maintenance practices homeowners should follow to keep their doors, windows, and shutters in optimal condition ahead of the cyclone season?

I think that regular maintenance is essential to ensure your openings remain secure and functional during storms. Ensuring doors and windows close properly, without gaps or misalignments, is crucial. Cyclone bars should be easily accessible and tested in advance to avoid last-minute issues.

With Gregory’s expert advice and JMD’s high-quality, cyclone-resistant products, you can fortify your home with confidence. From durable aluminium shutters designed to withstand extreme winds to expertly engineered doors and windows that provide superior sealing against heavy rain, JMD, an ENL subsidiary, equips you with the best solutions to weather any storm, allowing you to face the cyclone season with peace of mind, free from unnecessary stress.