The Complete Guide to Hurricane Shutters

Hurricane shutters are sturdy and protective coverings designed to shield windows, doors and other vulnerable openings from the destructive forces of hurricanes and other severe weather events. These shutters are constructed using robust materials such as aluminum, steel, polycarbonate or impact-resistant glass to provide unparalleled resilience against high winds, flying debris and torrential rains.

With a diverse range of styles and configurations available, hurricane shutters offer property owners the flexibility to choose the most suitable option for their unique needs. Some popular types include accordion shutters, roll-down shutters, colonial shutters, Bahama shutters and storm panels. Each kind possesses distinctive features, making them suitable for various architectural designs and preferences.

What Are Hurricane Shutters?

For both residential and commercial properties, hurricane shutters serve as a line of defense against the impact of hurricanes and tropical storms. Their primary purpose is safeguarding structures and inhabitants from potential harm, mitigating the risk of costly damages.

• Impact protection: Hurricane shutters resist the impact of airborne debris propelled by strong winds. By preventing shattered glass and structural breaches, these shutters enhance the building’s integrity, keeping occupants safe.
• Water intrusion prevention: Hurricanes bring heavy rains, which can cause water infiltration through windows and doors. Hurricane shutters form a watertight barrier, minimizing the risk of flooding and water damage to the interior of the building.
• Preserving assets: Hurricane shutters act as a layer of protection, safeguarding windows, doors and interior furnishings from potential destruction.
• Insurance premium reduction: Many insurance providers offer premium discounts to property owners who install hurricane shutters. Owners can save on insurance costs by taking proactive measures to protect their assets in the long run.
• Energy efficiency: Certain hurricane shutters, such as insulated roll-down shutters, provide even more benefits like energy efficiency. They maintain comfortable indoor temperatures and reduce utility bills by reducing heat transfer.

Materials Used in Hurricane Shutters

Hurricane shutters are made from various materials, each offering unique properties and advantages. The choice of material depends on cost, durability, appearance and the level of protection required. Here are some common materials used to make hurricane shutters:

• Aluminum: Aluminum is lightweight, corrosion-resistant and durable, making it suitable for residential and commercial applications. It’s available in various styles, including accordion, roll-down and Bahama shutters.
• Steel: Steel is known for its unmatched strength and durability. Steel hurricane shutters offer strength and durability protection against high-impact forces and flying debris during storms. They’re particularly suitable for commercial properties and buildings requiring heavy-duty protection.
• Composite materials: Some manufacturers offer hurricane shutters made from composite materials, combining the best properties of different materials. These shutters are designed to be lightweight, durable and weather-resistant.

Types of Hurricane Shutters

From the ease of use with accordion shutters to the convenience of roll-down shutters, each type brings unique features and benefits to bolster residential and commercial building protection during hurricane season.

1. Accordion Shutters

Accordion shutters are one of the most versatile types of hurricane shutters. They consist of horizontally interlocking slats that fold together neatly, resembling the bellows of an accordion when closed. These shutters are permanently installed on either side of a window or door and can be easily deployed by pulling them across the opening when a storm is imminent.

• Easy to use: Accordion shutters are simple to operate, making them a convenient choice for quick deployment during storm preparation.
• Space-efficient: The folding design allows these shutters to be compact and unobtrusive when not in use.
• Durable: Constructed from strong materials like aluminum or steel, accordion shutters offer excellent durability and longevity.

2. Roll-Down Shutters

Roll-down shutters consist of horizontal slats mounted above the opening and roll down vertically when activated. These shutters operate using either manual hand cranks or motorized systems, offering a convenient and effortless solution for storm protection.

• Convenient: Roll-down shutters can be quickly deployed with minimal effort.
• Seamless appearance: When not in use, roll-down shutters are unobtrusive and blend seamlessly with the building’s architecture.
• Simple light control: Users can adjust the slats to control the amount of light and visibility from the inside.
• Enhanced insulation: Closed roll-down shutters provide additional insulation, improving energy efficiency.

Two examples of roll-down shutters include Barracuda roll shutters and Magnum roll shutters.

Barracuda roll shutters are engineered by Alutech, a renowned manufacturer of hurricane shutters. These shutters are made from high-quality extruded aluminum, providing excellent strength and durability. They can be manually operated using a smooth and easy-to-use hand crank. These shutters are designed for quick and straightforward deployment, making storm preparation hassle-free.

Magnum roll shutters are another product by Alutech, designed for heavy-duty storm protection. They’re constructed using high-quality extruded aluminum or stainless steel, offering exceptional strength and resilience. They’re engineered to withstand strong winds, flying debris and high-impact forces during hurricanes, providing superior protection for windows and doors.

Both of these shutter models are engineered with cutting-edge technology and rigorous testing to ensure they meet the highest industry standards for hurricane protection.

3. Bahama Shutters

Bahama shutters are single-piece louvered shutters hinged at the top. They’re mounted above windows at a slanted angle, providing shade and ventilation when open. In a storm, they can be easily lowered and secured in place.

• Beautiful design: Bahama shutters add a charming and tropical touch to the building’s facade.
• Versatile: These shutters can remain partially open during normal weather, allowing air and light to enter while providing some protection.
• Offer ventilation and privacy: When partially open, Bahama shutters allow fresh air and natural light into the building while providing privacy from prying eyes.
• Easy hurricane preparation: Bahama shutters are designed for quick and straightforward deployment, making storm preparation a hassle-free process.

4. Colonial Shutters

Colonial shutters, or traditional shutters, consist of two panels hinged on each side of the window. They can be closed horizontally to cover the window during storms.

• Classic appeal: Colonial shutters add a timeless and elegant look to the building’s exterior.
• Easy operation: The two-panel design makes them simple to open and close.
• Versatile: Colonial shutters can be used for decorative purposes during fair weather and as storm protection.

5. Studio Star Custom Hurricane Shutters

Studio Star^® custom-shaped hurricane shutters are designed to cover oblique, triangular and even multiple-arch windows.

• Unmatched features and quality: Studio Star shutters are crafted using robust extruded aluminum RCE-40 slats, guaranteeing exceptional strength and longevity.
• Electric motor operation: These shutters come with specialized clutch and break attachments, ensuring smooth and reliable operation when deploying and retracting.
• Perfect fit for unique shapes: All curved archtops are expertly bent by CNC machines to ensure a precise fit, leaving no cut and weld marks, resulting in a sleek appearance.
• Die-cast aluminum end caps: Exclusive entry guides with die-cast aluminum end caps enhance the shutters’ durability and functionality.

When it comes to securing your property’s uniquely shaped openings, Studio Star custom-shaped hurricane shutters provide versatile and durable solutions. 

Why Do You Need Hurricane Shutters?

Hurricanes and tropical storms are natural disasters capable of causing devastating damage to residential and commercial properties. If you live or operate a business in a coastal area, installing hurricane shutters is a necessary choice to fortify your investment and protect the well-being of occupants.

1. Wind Damage Protection

One of the most significant threats of a hurricane is the wind’s formidable force. High-velocity winds can exert tremendous pressure on a building’s exterior, leading to structural breaches, roof damage and even collapse. Hurricane shutters act as a robust barrier, effectively shielding windows, doors and other vulnerable openings from the destructive force of hurricane winds.

By securing these access points, hurricane shutters reinforce the structural integrity of the building, reducing the risk of wind-driven rain and flying debris infiltrating the interior. This protects the property’s framework, interior furnishings and valuable possessions from potential water damage and destruction.

2. Debris Impact Protection

Hurricane-force winds can transform seemingly innocuous objects into hazardous projectiles. Flying debris, such as tree branches, roof tiles and other loose objects, severely threatens windows and doors. The impact of debris can shatter glass, causing hazardous conditions inside the building and compromising its overall stability.

Hurricane shutters can withstand high-impact forces, providing a reliable barrier against flying debris. Their sturdy construction, which often includes hurricane shutter materials like reinforced aluminum, steel or impact-resistant glass, absorbs and disperses the energy of debris impact, preventing penetration and safeguarding the building’s occupants from harm.

3. Lower Insurance Premiums

Beyond the protection they offer, installing hurricane shutters can have financial advantages, particularly concerning insurance premiums. Many insurance providers recognize the value of property owners’ proactive measures to safeguard their homes or businesses against potential storm damage.

As a result, they may offer premium reductions for properties equipped with hurricane shutters. Some insurance providers even require hurricane shutters.

Other Benefits of Hurricane Shutters

Hurricane shutters come with a range of other advantages, including:

1. Noise reduction: Hurricane shutters can help reduce outside noise levels, providing a quieter and more peaceful environment inside the property.
2. UV protection: Certain types of hurricane shutters, such as roll-down shutters with UV-resistant coatings, can block harmful sunrays from entering the building, protecting furniture, flooring and other interior elements from fading and damage caused by sun exposure.
3. Security: Hurricane shutters act as an added layer of security, deterring potential intruders and providing an additional barrier against forced entry.
4. Privacy enhancement: When closed, hurricane shutters offer enhanced privacy, shielding the interior from onlookers and passersby.
5. Quick recovery: In the aftermath of a hurricane, properties with hurricane shutters in place can recover more rapidly, as the shutters help minimize damage, allowing for faster restoration and rebuilding.
6. Energy efficiency: Insulated hurricane shutters can help regulate indoor temperatures more efficiently, leading to reduced air conditioning usage and lower energy bills.

Choosing the Right Hurricane Shutters for Your Property

The right choice of hurricane shutters offers optimal protection, complements the property’s design and suits your needs. A few factors to consider while choosing hurricane shutters include:

• Cost: Evaluate your budget and consider the initial cost of purchasing and installing hurricane shutters. While permanent shutters might have higher upfront expenses, they offer long-term protection and potential cost savings on insurance premiums.
• Design: Consider the architectural style of your property and choose hurricane shutters that complement its design. Some options, like Bahama or colonial shutters, provide an attractive and classic look.
• Ease of use: Consider how easy it is to deploy and operate the shutters. Some shutters, like roll-down or accordion shutters, offer convenient and quick deployment, while others may require more effort.
• Installation requirements: Think about the specific installation needs for each type of shutter.

Professional Consultation and Installation

Engaging with a professional hurricane shutter installer is highly advisable. A team of experts can assess your property, understand your requirements and recommend the most suitable shutter type based on building design, location and budget. Professionals have the expertise to handle the intricacies of the installation process, minimizing the risk of errors that might compromise the shutters’ performance.

Maintenance and Care for Hurricane Shutters

Periodically inspect your hurricane shutters for signs of damage, corrosion or wear. Address any issues promptly to maintain their effectiveness. To prevent long-term damage, clean your shutters to remove dirt, debris or salt buildup. Use mild soap and water for cleaning, avoiding harsh chemicals that might damage the materials.

Another preventative tip is to regularly lubricate moving components on shutters with mechanical parts, such as roll-down shutters, for smooth operation.

Legal and Building Code Considerations

Check with your local building authority or municipality to understand specific requirements and building codes related to hurricane shutters. Compliance with these regulations is crucial to ensure the safety and legality of your installation.

In some areas, obtaining permits may be necessary before installing hurricane shutters. If your property is designated as a historic structure, there may be restrictions on the type and appearance of hurricane shutters you can install. Consult with local preservation authorities to find appropriate options.

Contact Us for Premium Hurricane Shutter Installation

As experts in garage door and awning installation and repair, we at Liberty Door and Awning understand the significance of fortifying homes against the destructive forces of nature. Liberty Door and Awning stands as a trusted advisor for hurricane preparedness, guiding customers to the most effective protection for their families and homes in New Jersey. Our team of skilled installers takes pride in assisting you throughout the process, from identifying the ideal solution to choosing the perfect shutter style that fits your doors, windows and outdoor areas like porches, terraces or balconies.

Liberty Door and Awning’s exclusive partnership with Alutech, the industry leader in quality and safety for hurricane shutters, ensures you receive only the best protection for your property. With a wide array of protective styles, including motorized, automatic and manual hurricane shutters, you can safeguard any window or door opening.

Contact us today for more information or to schedule a quote.