During a Hurricane, homes with properly installed hurricane shutters are three times more likely to survive with minimal damage. If you’re considering professional hurricane shutter installation for your home, you’ll want to understand what’s involved in protecting your investment. The process can initially seem overwhelming, from selecting the right type of shutters to traversing permits and ensuring proper installation. But don’t let that deter you – a systematic approach to hurricane protection will help you make informed decisions that could mean the difference between minor repairs and catastrophic loss during the next major storm.
Different Types of Hurricane Shutters
Protection against hurricane damage starts with choosing the right type of shutter for your home. You’ll need to assess shutter material quality and durability concerns for each available option. Accordion shutters offer easy storage and operation, while aluminum construction guarantees lasting protection. If you’re interested in shutter energy efficiency, ponder Bahama shutters, which provide both storm protection and shade to reduce cooling costs.
Roll-up shutters present excellent customization options, as you can motorize them for convenient operation and choose from various materials to match your home’s aesthetic. While plywood shutters are cost-effective, they require precise shutter sizing deliberations and proper storage when not in use. You might want to explore impact-resistant shutters engineered to withstand severe wind conditions and flying debris for maximum protection.
Each type comes with specific installation requirements that affect both performance and longevity. When selecting your shutters, you’ll need to ponder factors like your budget, local building codes, and the unique architectural features of your home. Your choice should balance protection needs with practical deliberations like maintenance requirements and ease of operation.
How to Choose the Right Hurricane Shutters
When selecting hurricane shutters for your home, you must evaluate several vital factors to make the best choice. Start by carefully assessing each window and door opening, considering shutter material durability and impact resistance requirements for your specific location.
You’ll want to balance cost-effective shutter options with the level of protection needed, guaranteeing your choice meets local building codes.
Consider these essential factors when making your decision:
- Shutter impact resistance ratings that match or exceed your area’s wind zone requirements
- Shutter material durability to withstand years of exposure to sun, rain, and coastal elements
- Shutter ease of operation, especially during emergency preparations
- Shutter aesthetic appeal that complements your home’s architectural style
- Long-term maintenance requirements and associated costs
Compare different materials, such as aluminum, steel, polycarbonate, and reinforced fabric, carefully weighing their pros and cons. Each material offers varying levels of protection and comes with different price points. Consult with professional installers to understand specific requirements for your chosen style, whether accordion, Bahama, or colonial shutters. They’ll help ensure your selection provides ideal protection while meeting your budget and aesthetic preferences.
Hurricane Shutter Installation
Professional hurricane shutter installation is critical in ensuring your home is well-protected during severe weather. From preparation to final checks, here’s what you can expect during the process.
1. Accurate Measurements and Assessments
Professional installers will begin by conducting precise measurements of all windows and doors.
They will carefully document the dimensions of each opening, ensuring shutters are custom-fit to provide complete coverage. Installers will also assess your home’s structural features, such as the type of exterior material and any architectural details that might influence hurricane shutter installation. This preparation ensures that the shutters fit seamlessly and perform optimally.
2. Permit Acquisition and Compliance
Licensed professionals handle permitting to ensure the hurricane shutter installation meets local building codes.
They will research the specific requirements in your area, including wind-zone ratings and material standards. Once they gather the necessary documentation, they will submit the permit application on your behalf. After the installation, they will coordinate inspections to confirm compliance with all regulations.
3. Secure Installation of Shutters
Proper anchoring and alignment of shutters are essential for their effectiveness.
Installers will use high-quality fasteners, such as concrete screws or heavy-duty bolts, to secure the shutters to approved surfaces like masonry or concrete. They will follow manufacturer guidelines for spacing and depth to guarantee stability under extreme conditions. Professionals will meticulously align the shutters during the process to ensure they open, close, and lock smoothly. Tracks will be installed securely to allow seamless operation for roll-up shutters. For accordion or Bahama shutters, hinges will be placed precisely to ensure full functionality and aesthetic appeal.
4. Testing and Adjustment
Once the hurricane shutter installation is complete, professionals will thoroughly test each shutter.
They will open and close all shutters to ensure smooth operation and verify that locking mechanisms function properly. Installers will simulate wind pressure to confirm the shutters’ stability and alignment, ensuring they are ready to withstand severe weather conditions. If any adjustments are needed, they will be made on-site to guarantee optimal performance.
5. Professional Expertise and Quality Assurance
With a professional hurricane shutter installation, you benefit from the expertise and tools needed for a seamless process.
Certified installers are well-versed in local codes and regulations, ensuring your shutters meet safety and compliance standards. They also bring specialized tools and equipment to handle complex installations, such as motorized systems or hard-to-reach areas. Their experience allows them to troubleshoot any issues that arise during the process, giving you peace of mind that your home is adequately protected.
6. Final Inspections and Documentation
After installation and testing, the professionals will conduct a final inspection and provide documentation.
They will review all mounting points, hardware, and tracks to ensure everything is secure and operational. If a permit inspection is required, they will coordinate with local authorities to finalize approval. Additionally, you’ll receive maintenance instructions and operational guidance to help you care for your investment.
By trusting a professional installation team, you can be confident that your hurricane shutters are installed to the highest standards and ready to provide reliable protection during hurricane season.
Home Maintenance and Yearly Checks
Regular maintenance of your hurricane shutters guarantees they’ll function properly during severe weather events. Your annual shutter inspections should identify potential issues before they become major problems.
During seasonal preventive maintenance, you should check all moving parts, hardware, and mounting points to ensure everything is secure and operational.
Routine performance evaluations and biannual shutter checkups help protect your investment and keep your family safe. Remember to conduct post-storm damage assessments after severe weather events, even if you didn’t use the shutters.
- Check all tracks and rollers for debris, rust, or damage that could prevent smooth operation
- Test every shutter’s opening and closing mechanism to verify they’re not sticking or binding
- Inspect mounting hardware and wall attachments for signs of loosening or corrosion
- Examine seals and weatherstripping for wear, gaps, or deterioration
- Lubricate all moving parts with manufacturer-recommended products
Remember to document your maintenance activities and keep records of any repairs or replacements. If you notice any significant issues during your checks, contact a professional installer immediately to address the problem before the next storm season arrives.
Storm Protection You Can Trust
Proper hurricane shutter installation increases home storm resilience by up to 85% when correctly installed and maintained. Regular inspections, documentation of the installation process, and adherence to building codes are essential steps in protecting your property. While DIY installation is possible, professional installation often provides the most reliable protection and peace of mind.
Since 1976, Mr. Build has installed hurricane shutters and other storm protection solutions for Sarasota, Bradenton, and Venice homeowners. Under Joe and Melanie Long’s leadership, the company combines decades of local experience with current installation techniques and materials that meet Florida’s strict building requirements. For a consultation on hurricane shutter installation or other storm protection needs, contact Mr. Build at 1-800-282-2585 or visit www.mrbuildinc.com.
