The Best Hurricane Shutters for Coastal Living in 2023

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Living on the coast is a dream come true for many people, but it comes with its own set of challenges, including hurricanes. If you live on the coast, it’s essential to protect your home from the destructive power of these storms. One of the most effective ways to do this is by installing hurricane shutters. In this blog post, we’ll discuss the best hurricane shutters for coastal living in 2023 and provide tips for selecting, installing, and maintaining them.

Windstorms are powerful storms that are characterized by high winds and gusts. These storms can occur in many parts of the world and can be caused by a variety of factors, including changes in air pressure, temperature, and moisture in the atmosphere.

Windstorms can cause a range of problems, including property damage, power outages, and disruption of transportation and other infrastructure. In severe cases, windstorms can be deadly and cause loss of life and widespread destruction.

Windstorms can take many forms, including:

Thunderstorms: Thunderstorms are characterized by lightning, thunder, and heavy rain, and can produce strong winds that can cause damage.
Tornadoes: Tornadoes are rapidly rotating columns of air that can cause significant damage and are often accompanied by intense winds.
Hurricanes and typhoons: Hurricanes and typhoons are large, powerful storms that form over the ocean and can produce high winds, heavy rain, and storm surges that can cause flooding and other damage.
Derechos: Derechos are long-lived, widespread windstorms that can produce damaging winds over a large area.
Dust storms: Dust storms are caused by strong winds that pick up and carry large amounts of dust and sand, reducing visibility and causing respiratory problems.

Overall, windstorms can be extremely dangerous and can cause significant damage to homes and infrastructure. It’s important to take steps to prepare for these storms and to follow local weather alerts and evacuation orders if necessary to ensure your safety.

Types of Hurricane Shutters

There are several options for hurricane shutters on the market, including:

Accordion shutters: Accordion hurricane shutters are made of interlocking slats that fold up accordion-style when not in use. They are permanently attached to the side of the window or door and can be easily deployed when a storm is approaching. Accordion shutters are made of durable materials like aluminum or polycarbonate and are designed to withstand high winds and flying debris. They are also easy to use and provide a sleek, modern look for your home.

Bahama shutters: Bahama shutters are a type of louvered shutter that are hinged at the top and swing out to cover the window or door. They are typically made of wood or aluminum and are designed to provide shade and ventilation while still offering protection from storms. Bahama shutters are a popular choice for coastal homes as they add a tropical feel and are available in a variety of colors and styles.

Colonial shutters: Colonial shutters are a traditional style of hurricane shutter that are hinged on the sides and swing closed over the window or door. They are typically made of wood or aluminum and can be customized to match the architectural style of your home. Colonial shutters are easy to use and provide a classic, elegant look for your home.

Roll-up shutters: Roll-up shutters are made of metal or polycarbonate and roll up into a small box above the window or door when not in use. They are designed to provide maximum protection from storms, with some models able to withstand wind speeds up to 200 mph. Roll-up shutters are also easy to use and can be controlled with a remote or manual crank. Also known by some as roll down hurricane shutters. In Florida these are not a favored for protection anymore by insurance companies and local manufactures are not producing them anymore.

Storm panel shutters: Storm panel shutters are made of steel, aluminum, or polycarbonate and are designed to be installed over windows and doors when a storm is approaching. They are typically sold in standard sizes and can be attached to the exterior of your home with bolts or tracks. Storm panel shutters are an affordable option for homeowners looking to protect their homes from storms, but they can be more difficult to install and store when not in use.

Each type of shutter has its own set of benefits and drawbacks, depending on your needs and preferences. However, for coastal living, some of the most important factors to consider include material, strength, and impact resistance.

Best Hurricane Shutters for Coastal Living

Here are the best hurricane shutters brands:

StormSafe Max
Armor Screen
Nautilus
Bertha HV1
QMI StormSafe
Windoor Armor Max Plus
Guardian Storm Panels
AWP HurricaneMaster
Enviroblind Rolling Shutters
Eastern Architectural Systems EAS 42

Each of these shutters is made with high-quality materials and is designed to withstand the harsh conditions of coastal living. Some of the key features of these shutters include:

High-impact resistance
Water-resistant materials
Wind resistance up to 200 mph
Lightweight and easy to install
Durable and long-lasting

Factors to Consider When Choosing Hurricane Shutters for Coastal Living

When choosing hurricane shutters for your coastal home, there are several other factors to consider, including:

Building codes: Make sure the shutters you choose comply with local building codes and regulations.
Aesthetics: Consider the style of your home and choose shutters that complement its appearance.
Ease of use: Choose shutters that are easy to install, open, and close.
Cost: Compare the cost of different types of shutters and choose the one that fits your budget.

Hurricane Shutters Installation and Maintenance

Once you’ve selected your hurricane shutters, install them correctly and maintain them to ensure maximum protection. Here are some tips to keep in mind:

Follow the manufacturer’s installation instructions carefully.
Inspect your shutters regularly for signs of damage or wear.
Clean your shutters regularly with mild soap and water.
Store your shutters in a dry, cool place when not in use.

Cost of Hurricane Shutters

The cost of hurricane shutters can vary between the type of material used, the style of the shutter, the level of customization, and the region where the shutters are purchased. Here a general range of costs for each type of shutter:

Accordion shutters: The cost of accordion shutters can range from $15-$30 per square foot, depending on the material used, the level of customization, and the region where the shutters are purchased. The cost of installing accordion shutters can range from $10-$25 per square foot, depending on the complexity of the installation.
Bahama shutters: The cost of Bahama shutters can range from $20-$40 per square foot, depending on the material used, the level of customization, and the region where the shutters are purchased. The cost of installing Bahama shutters can range from $15-$30 per square foot, depending on the complexity of the installation.
Colonial shutters: The cost of Colonial shutters can range from $18-$30 per square foot, depending on the material used, the level of customization, and the region where the shutters are purchased. The cost of installing Colonial shutters can range from $12-$25 per square foot, depending on the complexity of the installation.
Roll-up shutters: The cost of roll-up shutters can range from $25-$50 per square foot, depending on the material used, the level of customization, and the region where the shutters are purchased. The cost of installing roll-up shutters can range from $20-$40 per square foot, depending on the complexity of the installation.
Storm panel shutters: The cost of storm panel shutters can range from $7-$15 per square foot, depending on the material used, the level of customization, and the region where the shutters are purchased. The cost of installing storm panel shutters can range from $5-$10 per square foot, depending on the complexity of the installation.

These costs are only rough estimates. It’s best to get a quote from a reputable hurricane shutter installer for a more accurate estimate of the cost of your desired shutter type.

Are Hurricane Shutters Worth The Cost?

Yes, hurricane shutters are definitely worth the cost for homeowners who live in hurricane-prone areas. While the upfront cost of purchasing and installing hurricane shutters can be significant, the cost of repairing or replacing a home damaged by a hurricane can be much higher. Hurricane shutters can provide protection for your home and family during a storm, reducing the risk of injury and property damage.

Hurricane shutters can provide other benefits beyond storm protection. In Florida, homeowners received discounts on the homeowners insurance policy for having increased protection installed on their homes. Many shutters can also enhance the appearance of your home, increase your home’s energy efficiency, and provide added security against intruders. Some types of shutters, such as Bahama and Colonial shutters, can even provide shade and ventilation for your home when not in use.

Hurricane shutters can add value to your home, which can be an important consideration if you plan to sell your home in the future. Homes with hurricane shutters may be more appealing to potential buyers who are concerned about storm protection and may be willing to pay more for a home with added protection. When shopping for a home in Florida, if it doesn’t have wind protection, the cost of your insurance can cause you to not qualify for the home anymore.

Which is better hurricane shutters or impact resistant glass?

The choice between hurricane shutters and impact-resistant glass ultimately depends on several factors, including your budget, aesthetic preferences, and the level of protection you need for your home. Both options provide protection against high winds and flying debris during a storm, but they have different advantages and disadvantages.

Impact-resistant glass, also known as hurricane-proof glass, is specially designed to withstand the impact of debris during a hurricane without shattering. The glass is made with a layer of polymer or film sandwiched between two or more sheets of glass, which provides an extra layer of protection for your home. Impact-resistant glass is a popular choice for homeowners who prefer a more modern, streamlined look for their home and don’t want to deal with the hassle of installing and storing hurricane shutters. However, impact-resistant glass can be more expensive than other types of glass and may be less effective in extremely high winds.

Hurricane shutters, on the other hand, are designed to be installed over windows and doors and provide a physical barrier between your home and the storm. Hurricane shutters come in a variety of styles, including accordion, roll-up, Bahama, and colonial, and can be made from materials like aluminum or polycarbonate. Hurricane shutters are a more affordable option than impact-resistant glass and can be customized to match the style of your home. However, they can be bulky and may require more effort to install and remove than impact-resistant glass.

Both hurricane shutters and impact-resistant glass are effective options for protecting your home during a hurricane. The choice between the two ultimately depends on your personal preferences and needs. If you prefer a more modern look and have a higher budget, impact-resistant glass may be a better option. If you prefer a more customizable and affordable option, hurricane shutters may be a better choice. It’s best to seek a local professional to help determine the best option for your specific home and needs.

I hope this has been helpful. If you have additional questions and want to get in contact with GGR Home Inspections please send us a note, text, or call.