Pre-Typhoon Essential: 7-Point Aluminium Window Inspection Checklist

Why Must Windows Be Inspected Before a Typhoon?

Pre-typhoon aluminium window maintenance is the first step in protecting your home. During Hong Kong's typhoon season (May to November), intense tropical cyclones bring winds exceeding 200 km/h and rainfall of over 100 mm per hour.

Aluminium windows are the first line of defence against typhoons. Any window deficiency during a typhoon could allow windows to be blown open by strong winds, water ingress, and in severe cases, glass breakage or the entire window falling out — causing injury and property damage.

The 7-Point Pre-Typhoon Checklist

Check 1: Hinge Condition: Inspect all window hinges for signs of rust, loosening or damage. During a typhoon, damaged hinges may cause the sash to fly off — replacement must be completed before the typhoon season.

Check 2: Handles and Multi-Point Locks: Test that every window handle can lock fully, and that multi-point locking systems operate correctly. Windows should remain completely closed and locked during a typhoon.

Check 3: Frame Weatherstrips: Check the rubber weatherstrips around window frames for hardening, cracking or detachment. Damaged weatherstrips allow water ingress — replace before typhoon season.

Check 4: Install Anti-Wind Clips: Anti-wind clips effectively limit the opening range of windows, preventing typhoon-force winds from forcing them open. Easy to install and an essential typhoon-season precaution.

Check 6: Clean Frame Drainage Channels: Clear dirt and debris from the drainage channels at the bottom of window frames to ensure unobstructed drainage. During a typhoon, if large volumes of water cannot drain quickly, flooding indoors may result.

Check 7: Inspect Window Sill Waterproofing: Check the waterproof seal at the junction between the window sill, window frame and wall. If there are cracks or gaps, apply silicone rubber sealant to repair, preventing rainwater from seeping in through gaps during a typhoon.

Safety Measures at Each Typhoon Stage

Before the typhoon: Complete all 7 checklist items; bring in all items on balconies and window ledges that could be blown away; tape windows in an X pattern to increase strength; prepare emergency supplies.

During the typhoon: Close and lock all windows; stay away from windows and glass doors; do not attempt to open windows to check conditions outside; do not go outdoors when the typhoon eye passes.

After the typhoon: Wait until the typhoon has completely passed before going outdoors; inspect windows for damage; if there is broken glass, contact a professional immediately for repair — do not handle broken glass yourself.

Cost Reference and Government Subsidies

The cost of pre-typhoon window maintenance and repair varies depending on the scope of works. Amgen offers a range of maintenance services from basic inspections to full renovation.

Elderly Repair Assistance Scheme: Owners aged 60 or above may apply for the Government's "Maintenance Allowance for Elderly Homeowners Scheme", with a maximum subsidy of HKD $80,000 for window repair and renovation works. Amgen can assist with the application process.

The following are reference prices

Service Item	Cost Range
Weatherstrip replacement (per window)	HKD $250 - $600
Anti-wind clip installation (per unit)	HKD $300 - $600
Comprehensive window maintenance works	HKD $2,000 - $4,000