---
title: "Typhoon Window Securing and X-Tape Effectiveness"
locale: en
category: knowledge_base
category_name: "Knowledge Base"
translation_status: reviewed
license: cc_by
author: "Injoys Editorial Team"
source_url: https://injoys.com/en/articles/typhoon-window-fixing-tape-newspaper-safety-film
published_at: 2026-09-15T08:43:24+09:00
---

# Typhoon Window Securing and X-Tape Effectiveness

> Protecting windows from typhoons starts with reducing gaps and movement in the window frames. X-shaped tape and wet newspaper have limited effectiveness in preventing breakage, while safety film separately helps contain flying glass fragments.

## Key Points

- X-shaped tape across the center of the glass cannot be relied on to prevent breakage caused by strong winds.
- When securing windows, separately inspect movement in the window sash and gaps around the edges of the glass.
- There is insufficient evidence to consider wet newspaper a means of preventing flying fragments comparable to safety film.
- Safety film is a supplementary measure that reduces harm from flying fragments and does not guarantee the wind resistance of the entire window system.
- Window reinforcement and the removal of outdoor objects must be completed before strong winds arrive.

The key to protecting windows against typhoons is reducing gaps and movement in the window system. X-shaped tape and wet newspaper have limited effectiveness in preventing breakage. Reinforcement must be completed before strong winds begin. Once winds intensify, stay away from windows.

The experimental figures are based on an announcement by the National Disaster Management Research Institute dated July 8, 2013.

## Does X-Shaped Tape Prevent Glass Breakage?

Tape applied in an X shape across the center of the glass is not highly effective at preventing breakage. The National Disaster Management Research Institute tested methods using wet newspaper and tape. Their preventive effects were particularly minimal when the window system was weak or had gaps.

The U.S. NOAA hurricane FAQ also does not recommend applying tape to glass surfaces. It explains that tape does little to strengthen glass and explicitly states that it offers no protection against flying objects.

A press release reporting the National Disaster Management Research Institute’s announcement states:

> Attaching tape to the edges, such as the window frame, was found to be more effective.
>
> — “In Strong Winds, Apply Tape to the Window Frame, Not the Window, for Safety”

The key point is the area being secured, rather than the shape of the tape. Simply applying tape in a square pattern on the glass surface is not enough. The connections that actually separate or move should be inspected.

## How Do the Window Frame and Sash Differ?

The window frame is the outer structure installed in the wall, while the sash is the part that opens and closes. The glass is fitted into the border of the sash. In everyday language, all these parts are sometimes called the window frame.

However, movement of the sash and gaps around the edges of the glass are different problems. Confusing where reinforcement is needed can cause the underlying issue to be missed. Even if the glass appears intact, the condition of the entire window system must be checked.

| Area to inspect | Problem to check | Purpose of reinforcement |
|---|---|---|
| Window frame and movable sash | Movement when closed, faulty locking | Reduce sash movement or opening |
| Glass and the border holding it | Gaps around the edges, damage to secured areas | Reduce loss of support for the glass |
| Connection between the window frame and wall | Movement or damage affecting the entire frame | Check how securely the entire window system is fixed |

Window breakage cannot be explained by movement alone. The pressure of strong winds also exerts force on windows. Flying flowerpots or building materials can directly break the glass. Securing the window frame and clearing surrounding objects are therefore both necessary.

## How to Secure Windows and the Order of Inspection

Securing windows is a precautionary measure that must be taken before strong winds begin. The Ministry of the Interior and Safety’s 2025 strong-wind safety guidelines advise reinforcing windows that move. Old windows that are difficult to secure are identified as candidates for replacement.

1. **Check that the window closes and locks.** Close the window completely and make sure the locking mechanism engages. A window that does not lock should be considered in need of repair.
2. **Identify where the movement occurs.** Inspect sash movement and gaps around the edges of the glass separately. Do not test the glass’s strength by pushing it forcefully.
3. **Reinforce safely accessible connections.** Tape reinforcement should target the connection between the glass and its border. This must be distinguished from creating a pattern in the center of the glass.
4. **Have damaged windows repaired.** If the entire frame moves or the locking mechanism is broken, a professional inspection is necessary. Temporary tape must not be treated as a completed repair.
5. **Finish clearing the surrounding area and preparing to shelter indoors.** Move objects that could be blown away indoors or secure them. Also choose a place to stay away from windows.

Securing methods vary depending on the window system’s construction and condition. A single method of inserting the same reinforcement material into every window is difficult to apply universally. First check the instructions provided by the window manufacturer or building management.

## Comparing X-Shaped Tape, Newspaper, and Safety Film

Preventing breakage and limiting the scattering of fragments are different functions. Breakage prevention reduces the risk of glass breaking or the window system becoming dislodged. Fragment retention reduces the risk of broken pieces scattering into the surrounding area.

| Method | Expected role | Limitations |
|---|---|---|
| X-shaped tape in the center of the glass | Difficult to regard as a reliable means of preventing breakage | Does not stop flying objects |
| Wet newspaper applied to the glass | Showed limited effectiveness in preventing breakage during experiments | Must be kept wet, and its ability to contain fragments has not been sufficiently verified |
| Reinforcement of window-system connections | Temporary measure to reduce gaps and movement | Cannot replace repairs to damaged windows or protection against impacts |
| Safety film designed to retain fragments | Holds broken glass pieces together to reduce scattering | Cannot guarantee the prevention of glass breakage or the dislodgement of the entire window system |
| Performance-tested storm shutters or impact-resistant windows | Equipment designed to withstand wind and flying debris | Requires products with suitable performance and installation appropriate for the building |
| Closing curtains | Supplementary indoor precaution against fragments | Does not strengthen the window |

Continually rewetting newspaper requires repeated approaches to the window. Avoid going near windows to maintain it during strong winds. The tested announcement reviewed did not provide a fragment-retention rate for wet newspaper.

Safety also cannot be judged solely by whether some pieces remain attached to the tape. Some fragments sticking to tape and a reduction in injuries are different measures. X-shaped tape must not be described as equivalent to safety film.

## How Much Protection Does Safety Film Provide?

Safety film designed to retain fragments is a supplementary means of holding broken pieces together. FEMA’s explanation of glass-fragment mitigation presents the same principle. However, the testing context described there must not be extrapolated to typhoon performance.

Applying safety film does not strengthen the window frame or locking mechanism. Whether the entire window remains intact after the glass breaks is a separate issue. Typhoon resistance is difficult to determine from a product name or thickness alone.

Performance descriptions should distinguish among the following:

- Whether the test covered the film alone or the entire window system
- Whether the purpose of the test was fragment retention or resistance to flying-debris impacts
- Whether the tested glass and the installed glass have the same specifications
- The edge-attachment and installation conditions

Laminated glass, which contains an interlayer between panes of glass, has a different structure from film applied afterward. FEMA describes laminated-glass systems as one type of impact-resistant window system. Existing windows fitted only with safety film cannot be assumed to have the same performance.

## Guidance by Condition

The action to prioritize depends on the window’s condition and whether strong winds have begun. The table below groups the experimental findings and public-agency safety guidelines by situation.

| Situation | Priority assessment | Appropriate response |
|---|---|---|
| Before strong winds, and the window closes normally | Basic inspection and clearing of the surrounding area are possible | Check the lock and remove objects that could become airborne |
| Before strong winds, but the sash rattles | The securing condition needs to be inspected | Identify the cause of the movement and arrange reinforcement or repairs |
| The glass is cracked or the frame is damaged | Temporary attachments cannot be relied upon | Arrange professional repairs when it is safe |
| Strong winds have already begun and the window is moving | Personal safety takes priority over working on the window | Do not approach the window; move to an interior space |
| The window has broken or part of it has fallen away | There is a risk from fragments and further breakage | Leave the area and prevent access |
| A local evacuation order has been issued | Reinforcing the home is not a reason to remain | Follow local authorities’ evacuation instructions |

## Why Experimental Wind Speeds Must Not Be Treated as a Home Safety Standard

The wind speed produced by experimental equipment is not a figure guaranteeing the safety of an individual home. The 2013 announcement states that a strong-wind generator producing winds of 50m/s was used. This does not mean that every window can withstand wind speeds of up to 50m/s.

Performance varies depending on the size of the window and the type of glass. How securely the window is installed and how much it has deteriorated also affect performance. It is also necessary to determine whether the conditions included impacts from flying debris.

When applying experimental findings in daily life, check the following:

- Distinguish whether a figure refers to the equipment’s wind speed or the wind speed at which breakage actually occurred.
- Do not extrapolate results from a specific test specimen into a standard for all homes.
- Do not express the effectiveness of tape or film using unsupported reduction rates.
- Verify the performance of the particular window system separately using product information and its installation condition.

This distinction is also necessary when reviewing forecast wind speeds. Do not remain near windows merely because the forecast speed is lower than the test speed. The experimental figures in this article are not the forecast wind speeds of a particular typhoon.

## Why Working Outside Windows After Strong Winds Begin Is Dangerous

Working outside windows during strong winds exposes people to falls and impacts from flying objects. When standing immediately beside a window, it is also difficult to avoid the glass if it breaks. The Ministry of the Interior and Safety advises securing outdoor objects before the wind begins.

Even if some tape has not yet been applied, do not begin the work during strong winds. Avoid attempting to support the window with your hands or body. Do not lean out of the window to reinforce its exterior surface.

Apply the following principles indoors:

- Close curtains in advance when they can be approached safely.
- Stay away from windows and glass doors during strong winds.
- Use an interior area of the building that is not at risk of flooding as a waiting area.
- Do not rush to resume work even if the wind temporarily subsides.

The National Weather Service explains that temporary calm can occur in the eye of a typhoon. Strong winds from the opposite direction may follow. Safety should be assessed using official weather information rather than a brief period of calm.

## Common Mistakes

A common error in window preparation is overstating the effectiveness of supplementary measures. Taking precautions does not by itself guarantee safety. The risks reduced by each measure must be distinguished.

| Common misconception | Fact that must be distinguished |
|---|---|
| Applying a dense X pattern makes the window system stronger | Applying tape to the glass surface is different from structurally reinforcing the window system |
| Securing only the window frame makes it withstand any impact | Objects flying in from outside are a separate hazard |
| Newspaper can replace safety film | Equivalent fragment-retention performance has not been verified |
| Closing the curtains makes it safe to remain near the window | Curtains do not replace staying away from windows |
| The wind has weakened, so it is safe to reinforce the window from outside | Strong winds may resume after a temporary calm |

## Frequently Asked Questions

### Is It Better to Apply at Least Some X-Shaped Tape?

It is not a measure that should be prioritized for preventing breakage. NOAA explains that it does little to strengthen glass. It is more reasonable to use preparation time first for inspecting the window system and clearing away objects that could become airborne.

### Should Tape Be Applied to the Glass or the Window Frame?

The purpose of public-agency guidance is to reduce gaps and movement at connections. This is different from creating shapes in the center of the glass. Damaged securing points should not be addressed with tape alone.

### Is It Enough to Insert Milk Cartons or Paper into Gaps in the Window Frame?

That measure alone cannot be considered sufficient. Movement of the sash must be distinguished from damage to the frame itself. Reinforcement methods must be checked against the construction of the specific window system.

### Will Wet Newspaper Stop Glass Fragments?

There is insufficient evidence to expect the same effect as safety film. The National Disaster Management Research Institute’s announcement explained the limitations of newspaper in preventing breakage. It did not provide figures demonstrating fragment-retention performance.

### Will Safety Film Prevent the Glass from Breaking?

The primary role of safety film is to reduce the scattering of fragments after breakage. It does not mean that the glass itself will not break. The wind resistance of the entire window system must also be checked separately.

### Why Should Curtains Be Closed?

Closing curtains is a supplementary precaution against incoming fragments. It is not a way to increase the window’s structural strength. Even with the curtains closed, stay away from windows during strong winds.

### Can Old Windows Be Prepared Using Tape Alone?

Older window systems may need repair or replacement. The Ministry of the Interior and Safety advises replacing old windows that are difficult to secure. Windows that do not lock or whose entire frames move must not be left unrepaired.

### Should a Window Be Covered Immediately If It Breaks During Strong Winds?

The priority is for people to move away from the damaged area. Attempting temporary repairs directly in front of the window exposes them to further breakage. Prevent access and request assistance from building management or emergency services while remaining in a safe location.

### If the Windows Have Been Reinforced, Is Evacuation Unnecessary?

Window reinforcement does not replace evacuation orders from local authorities. Typhoons may also bring other hazards, including flooding. Whether to evacuate should be determined according to risks at the residence and official guidance.

### Can This Be Read as Meaning That a Specific Typhoon Is Approaching?

This article explains general principles for protecting windows. It is not a forecast confirming that a specific typhoon will affect the Korean Peninsula. Check the Korea Meteorological Administration’s latest forecast and local disaster information to determine when to begin actual preparations.

## FAQ

### Does X-shaped tape prevent glass from breaking during a typhoon?
X-shaped tape placed across the center of the glass does little to prevent breakage. NOAA explains that it also provides no protection against flying objects.

### Where should tape be applied in preparation for a typhoon?
Public agency guidance focuses on reducing gaps and movement at window connection points. This should be distinguished from making shapes with tape across the center of the glass. Damaged windows require repair.

### What is the difference between a window frame and a sash?
The window frame is the outer frame installed in the wall. The sash is the part that opens and closes and includes the glass. Movement of the sash and separation around the edges of the glass should be checked separately.

### Is inserting milk cartons or paper into gaps in the window frame sufficient?
That measure alone cannot be considered sufficient. Movement of the sash must be distinguished from damage to the frame itself. The reinforcement method should be checked to ensure it is appropriate for the window's structure.

### Does wet newspaper prevent glass fragments from scattering?
There is insufficient evidence to expect the same effect as safety film. The experiment results announced by the National Disaster Management Research Institute did not provide a rate for newspaper's effectiveness in preventing glass fragments from scattering.

### Does applying safety film prevent glass from breaking?
The primary role of safety film is to reduce the scattering of broken glass. It does not guarantee that the glass will not break or that the entire window will not be dislodged.

### Is it safe to stay near a window if the curtains are closed?
Even with the curtains closed, you should stay away from windows. Curtains are a supplementary measure for protection against flying fragments. They do not strengthen the window.

### Can an old window be reinforced with tape alone?
Old windows may need to be repaired or replaced depending on their condition. The Ministry of the Interior and Safety advises replacing old windows that are difficult to secure.

### Can windows be reinforced after strong winds begin?
During strong winds, personal safety takes priority over reinforcing windows. Do not lean outside or try to support the glass with your hands. Move to an interior area away from windows.

### Is the experimental wind speed of 50m/s a safety standard for homes?
No. It was the wind speed of the experimental equipment described in the 2013 announcement. It does not mean that individual homes are safe at wind speeds of up to 50 meters per second.

### What should you do first if a window breaks during strong winds?
The priority is to move away from the damaged area and prevent access to that space. Do not attempt repairs directly in front of the window during strong winds. From a safe location, request assistance from the property manager or emergency services.

### Once the windows are secured, can evacuation orders be disregarded?
Securing windows is not a substitute for following evacuation orders. Typhoons may also bring other hazards, such as flooding. Follow official guidance from local authorities.

## Sources

- [National Disaster Management Research Institute Experiment Announcement — When Strong Winds Blow, It Is Safer to Apply Tape to the Window Frame, Not the Window, July 8, 2013](https://www.mois.go.kr/frt/bbs/type010/commonSelectBoardArticle.do?bbsId=BBSMSTR_000000000008&nttId=29806)
- [Ministry of the Interior and Safety — Public Action Guidelines for Strong Winds Poster, June 4, 2025](https://www.mois.go.kr/frt/bbs/type002/commonSelectBoardArticle.do?bbsId=BBSMSTR_000000000530&nttId=118117)
- [NOAA — Should I tape my windows when a hurricane threatens?](https://www.aoml.noaa.gov/hrd/tcfaq/C7.html)
- [National Weather Service — Actions to Take When a Tropical Storm or Hurricane Threatens](https://www.weather.gov/safety/hurricane-action)
- [National Weather Service — Hurricane Guide 2020, Preparing Your Home Before the Storm](https://www.weather.gov/media/hgx/HurricaneGuide2020.pdf)
- [FEMA 428 — Explanation of Glass Fragment Hazard Mitigation Retrofits for School Safe Rooms, Section 6.10](https://www.fema.gov/sites/default/files/2020-08/fema428.pdf)
- [FEMA — Hurricane and Flood Mitigation Handbook for Public Facilities, Fact Sheet 3.2, March 2022](https://www.fema.gov/sites/default/files/documents/fema_p-2181-fact-sheet-3-2-wall-openings.pdf)
- [JKK Tokyo — Korean Edition of Housing Plaza, September 2022 Issue, Typhoon Preparedness Measures You Can Take at Home](https://www.to-kousya.or.jp/content/000008031.pdf)

## Images

![Woman checking the lock on a window marked with X-shaped tape under stormy skies](https://injoys.com/rails/active_storage/blobs/proxy/eyJfcmFpbHMiOnsiZGF0YSI6MTg2NTYsInB1ciI6ImJsb2JfaWQifX0=--58ed03678b446b3ecd070bcf9b18a666d4cfc061/ai-ec960028.webp)
![Typhoon window diagram comparing frame locks, X tape, newspaper, and shatter-resistant film](https://injoys.com/rails/active_storage/blobs/proxy/eyJfcmFpbHMiOnsiZGF0YSI6MTg2NjIsInB1ciI6ImJsb2JfaWQifX0=--2db4cb0372df223f311be96676437d299818287a/ai-03c9e0bc.webp)