Window shutters began as more than just a decorative touch to a home. Before curtains, blinds, and glass windows, shutters were the best means of security against potential intruders and protection from severe weather such as hurricanes, heavy snow, and tornadoes. Without shutters, wind, rain, and the sometimes piercing brightness of sunlight could easily penetrate the windows and affect your home’s interior.
In the late-eighteenth and early-to-mid-nineteenth centuries, window glass began to be featured prominently in America and changed the way shutters were used. Shutters were no longer needed for a house’s everyday protection from the elements—they were now needed to shield the fragile and expensive glass.
As window quality improved and protection from the elements mainly became secondary, shutters evolved into a more mostly decorative touch. Shutters not only protect windows but also protect the contents of a home. Typically, there is rain with hurricanes and tornados. If the window breaks, where does the rain go? Inside the structure, destroying personal items, furniture, flooring, walls, and so on, and who wants to deal with that?
Window protection is good for any high wind event – this could be hurricanes, tornados, and even storms that aren’t classified as one of those — really, anything that can generate flying debris. High wind events can occur anywhere — not living on or near the coast doesn’t mean you won’t experience a wind event. Many state building codes require structures to be built to withstand certain wind thresholds. Depending upon where you live, your house may need to meet higher wind threshold criteria.
The main purpose of specific shutter types, such as Bahama Shutters, is to provide storm protection for your home or commercial property. A bonus to this type of shutter is that they are also aesthetically pleasing. Because they are thick and durable, these shutters are strong enough to withstand even the strongest hurricane winds and heavy rain that comes with them.
But, this isn’t the case with all types of shutters. Protection levels vary among the type of shutter style. So, if you’re concerned about a certain level of storm protection, be sure to ask about its level of protection before you buy. If storm protection is not your primary focus, there are several other reasons to consider shutters for your home.
Light Control
By adjusting the louvers on interior or exterior shutters, you can keep rooms as dark as you want. For example, in the mornings when you need extra sleep or keep them as bright as possible to enjoy the sun’s warmth.
Ventilation
Shutters can be used to adjust the air being let inside the home when you open the windows.
Protection from Noise
When most people think of shutters, they think of storm protection. And while they do protect you from severe weather like hurricanes and heavy winds, they can also help reduce external noise like traffic on a busy street or noisy neighbors. This is extremely valuable in highly populated areas!
Security and Privacy
If your home directly faces the street or your next-door neighbor, shutters ensure privacy and security from curious eyes.
Durability and Longevity
Shutters are built to last and never go out of style. They don’t fade or stain and are easy to clean. Effective and efficient all in one.
Curb Appeal
Finally, there’s style. Not only are shutters attractive, but they also add character to a home’s exterior.
Shutters are a popular, affordable, accessible way to add interest to the exterior of your home. Choosing the right size, shape, and style can make all the difference in your home’s appearance and level of protection.
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