Don’t get us wrong – we love living in the Lowcountry. But, it does come with certain disadvantages. One, for example, is being much more vulnerable to powerful storms, especially during hurricane season. Because we can often count on the threat of a strong storm this time of year – we want to encourage you to think about using a long-term solution for keeping your home and business safe. Hurricane shutters are one of the most popular and durable solutions for storm protection. Designed to protect you and your home or business from dangerous elements of a storm, hurricane shutters are the most popular solution because of their strength, adaptability, and efficiency.
If you’re thinking of adding hurricane shutters to your home or business, here are five things you should know first.
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Shutters and plywood boards are not created equal.
Plywood boards are sometimes used by people as a temporary solution for storm protection – however, their benefits are nowhere near those of hurricane shutters. Hurricane shutters are designed and tested to withstand hurricane-force winds and danger from other natural elements. Plywood is better than having nothing if you’re looking for a last-minute solution, but they shouldn’t be used for long-term protection and wouldn’t give you and your home or business the same protection as hurricane shutters.
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There are several hurricane shutter styles to choose from.
Hurricane shutters aren’t just the basic aluminum panels anymore, they come in a variety of different designs and can add an element of style to your home or business. Here are the different types of hurricane shutters you can find for storm protection.
Accordion Storm Shutters
Accordion shutters can be easily opened and secured quickly if you’re preparing for a storm with only a small amount of time. They are perfect for windows, doors, patio balconies, terraces, and storefronts. These are the most cost-effective shutter option.
Rolling Storm Shutters
Rollaway storm shutters attach above the window, roll up, and can be stored away when they’re not being used. They provide you with storm protection, add an extra layer of defense from crime, and reduce your energy costs throughout the year.
Storm Panels
Hurricane panels are much easier to handle than plywood boards and can be easily stored away when not in use. Headers, tracks, and sills come in white or bronze, and the panels themselves come in mill finish. Because they’re made from aluminum or steel, panels provide the ultimate strength against storms.
Fabric Storm Panels
Fabric storm panels are a highly-effective alternative to steel or aluminum panels and are designed and tested to block wind, rain, and storm-drive projectiles. Fabric is a quick, easy, and cost-effective option, that also allows for light to enter your home or business.
Colonial Shutters
Colonial shutters combine classic style with dependable protection and offer secure modern-day technology. They’re hinged at the sides and can be opened when not being used. Crafted from heavy aluminum alloy and fastened together with stainless steel hardware, making them extremely reliable and weatherproof.
Bahama Storm Shutters
Bahama storm shutters offer permanent shade protection and excellent storm protection. These shutters are permanently mounted above each window opening at a 45-degree angle, allowing for privacy while offering full-sight views. They are a Lowcountry favorite – known for adding charm, beauty, and protection all at the same time.
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Depending on which shutters you choose, they may or may not be able to stay up year-round.
Depending on the type of storm shutters you choose, it may not be the best idea to leave them up throughout the entire year. Accordion shutters, rolling shutters, fabric shutters, and storm panels should only be used when you and your family are preparing for a storm or hurricane. If you have colonial or Bahama storm shutters, they are meant to last all year long.
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To be functional, they must be well-maintained.
Regardless of the type of shutters you have, it’s a good idea to have them inspected once a year at the start of hurricane season, to ensure they are still in good shape. If there are any problems, you should have them fixed proactively so that when it comes time to use them, you’re prepared. Keeping them well-maintained and clean can be detrimental to their effectiveness during a storm or hurricane.
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Having a professional install them is a must.
Having a professional install your storm shutters will help to ensure that they are put on in a way that will provide optimal protection for your home or business. Professionally installed shutters usually come with a warranty protecting against defects or problems.
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