In New Jersey, you need to protect your property during hurricane season. Relentless rain, high winds and airborne debris can severely damage your doors and windows, leaving your property vulnerable to costly repairs and safety hazards. Accordion hurricane shutters offer a dependable solution to these threats — for residential and commercial properties — providing durable protection that can withstand torrential rain and hurricane winds.
What Are Accordion Hurricane Shutters?
Accordion hurricane shutters are protective barriers made from extruded aluminum and stainless steel parts. They consist of horizontally interlocking slats that fold together like the bellows of an accordion, giving them their distinctive name. These shutters mount permanently on tracks installed on either side of openings such as doors and windows.
When you don’t need them, the shutter panels stack compactly against the wall and remain nearly invisible. When you do need them, you pull the panels across the opening along their tracks until they meet in the middle and lock securely. The process typically requires just one person and takes only minutes, making accordion shutters one of the most convenient hurricane protection options available.
Accordion shutters provide coverage for a wide range of openings:
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Sliding glass doors: Provide wide coverage for large door systems
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Picture windows and bay windows: Protect expansive glass areas
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Enclosed balconies and terraces: Maximum floor space with curved or removable tracks
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Commercial storefronts: Ensure efficient security for retail and office properties
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Warehouse entrances: Offer heavy-duty protection for industrial applications
Why Choose Accordion Hurricane Shutters
Property owners who invest in accordion shutters gain multiple advantages. These shutters withstand hurricane-force winds, flying debris and torrential rain through heavy-duty construction using extruded aluminum and stainless steel. They meet and exceed stringent building code requirements, including the Florida and International Building Codes. During testing, they undergo wind load assessments, cyclic pressure testing and missile impact simulations.
Key benefits include:
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Long-lasting durability: The two-blade accordion system can last for decades with proper installation and maintenance.
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Insurance savings: Installing hurricane shutters can reduce insurance premiums as many insurers offer discounts for protective measures — otherwise known as wind mitigation credits.
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No storage needed: Unlike storm panels, accordion shutters remain mounted and ready without taking up garage or closet space.
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Cost-effective investment: Their durability means you won’t need frequent replacements over the years.
Accordion Hurricane Shutters vs. Roll-Down Shutters
Choosing between accordion and roll-down shutters depends on your specific needs, budget and property characteristics. Accordion shutters are permanently visible when open, as the folded panels stack on either side of the opening. Roll-down shutters retract into a housing box and remain hidden when not in use, offering a cleaner look during fair weather.
For maintenance, accordion shutters require regular cleaning of the tracks and lubrication of moving parts. Roll-down shutters have fewer exposed components, but their motorized mechanisms may need servicing from a technician. Installation costs for accordion shutters are typically lower because they don’t require the electrical work that motorized roll-down systems need.
Consider accordion shutters if you want a budget-friendly option that’s easy to operate manually and doesn’t require electricity. Roll-down shutters make more sense for upper-story windows, properties where aesthetics are crucial, or when motorized convenience justifies the higher cost. Understanding the difference between hurricane shutters vs. impact windows helps you make informed decisions.
Motorized vs. Manual Accordion Hurricane Shutters
Accordion shutters are available in both manual and motorized configurations. Motorized accordion shutters operate at the push of a button or through remote control. This convenience is valuable for large openings, multiple windows, or property owners with mobility limitations. The motorization eliminates physical effort, speeding up storm preparation. Motorized systems typically have a longer lifespan than manual versions because they reduce wear on tracks and components. However, they come with a higher up front cost due to electrical components and installation requirements. Most systems include battery backup for emergency use.
Manual accordion shutters offer reliable protection at a lower initial investment. They don’t require electrical work, which reduces both cost and complexity. Manual operation doesn’t depend on power availability, making them dependable during outages. The trade-off is a shorter average lifespan due to increased wear from manual handling. For most residential applications, manual accordion shutters provide excellent value and performance.
How Accordion Hurricane Shutters Work
Accordion shutters slide along horizontal tracks mounted at the top and bottom of the opening. The interlocking panels unfold as you pull them across. Once fully extended, the panels meet in the middle where they lock together. The tracks can be straight for standard openings or custom-curved to fit bay windows. Some systems include removable tracks for balconies, allowing maximum floor space when the shutters aren’t deployed.
Beyond storm protection, accordion shutters provide valuable security benefits. Once locked, they create a visible barrier that deters intruders by reinforcing typical break-in points like windows and sliding doors. The locking systems operate from both inside and outside. Most accordion shutters feature center-mate locks and thumb-turn mechanisms that require no keys. The noncorrosive materials resist tampering and weathering, making accordion shutters a practical investment for year-round security rather than just seasonal storm protection.
Shopping for Accordion Hurricane Shutters
Making an informed purchase requires understanding what distinguishes quality products. Look for accordion shutters constructed from extruded aluminum or stainless steel. These materials resist corrosion from salt air and moisture, essential for durability in coastal environments. The thickness and grade directly impact the shutter’s ability to withstand impact and wind pressure. Reputable manufacturers back their products with comprehensive warranties. Quality shutters should meet or exceed local building code requirements. In New Jersey, verify that products comply with the International Building Code and the International Residential Code.
Proper installation is critical for accordion shutters to perform as designed. Certified installers ensure the tracks are level and securely anchored to the building structure. They account for wind loads and verify that the mounting points can withstand the forces the shutters will experience. DIY installation might seem cost-effective, but professional installation for accordion shutters is worth it. Improper mounting can lead to failure when you need protection most. Expert installation typically includes warranty coverage. Experienced technicians can also recommend the best shutter configuration for your property.
How to Maintain Accordion Hurricane Shutters
Regular maintenance keeps your accordion shutters functioning properly and extends their service life. Follow these essential tasks:
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Clean tracks twice per year
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Rinse panels regularly
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Lubricate moving parts
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Test operation periodically
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Inspect for damage
Consistent maintenance prevents minor issues from becoming major repairs. Keeping tracks clean and components lubricated reduces wear, allowing panels to glide smoothly. Regular inspections let you catch corrosion, loose hardware or damaged seals before they compromise performance.
Schedule Your Installation Today
Liberty Door and Awning is a proud dealer of Alutech accordion-style hurricane shutters in New Jersey. Our accordion shutters meet and exceed the most stringent hurricane protection requirements, including the Florida and International Building Codes. With decades of experience serving Atlantic, Middlesex, Mercer, Monmouth and Ocean counties, we provide professional consultation and expert installation.
When you choose Liberty Door and Awning, you’re choosing reliability, quality products and a team that answers the phone during business hours and keeps appointments. Contact us today to schedule your service or free estimate and protect your property with hurricane shutters built to withstand New Jersey’s toughest storms.
