Hurricane shutters are designed to help secure homes and businesses in storm-prone regions. Homeowners located in coastal regions are urged to install hurricane shutters to their windows, and in some areas, it may be mandatory to bring your home up to code with hurricane shutters during home renovation. Hurricane shutters for sliding glass doors, French doors and ancillary windows are also encouraged. Learn more about hurricane shutters and why you should install hurricane shutters on your home or business.
What Are Hurricane Shutters?
Hurricane shutters are coverings for the exterior of your windows that are designed to protect windows from the strong winds of hurricanes and other extreme storms. The addition of storm shutters can significantly reduce the chances of your home’s windows shattering, preventing even more severe damage from occurring in the interior of your home. One broken window in a house can cause enough pressure to blow the roof off in a strong hurricane, so installing protection like hurricane shutters can save you from the expense and headache of costly storm repairs.
What Building Codes Do Hurricane Shutters Need to Meet?
Most homes in hurricane regions need to meet two specific building code standards. Those are:
- Southern Building Code Congress International (SBCCI)
This organization develops the codes that the Florida Building Code (FBC) is based on.
The ASTM has specific codes for exterior windows, doors, walls and shutters.
To be sure you’re purchasing hurricane shutters that are built to code, check the packaging or any advertising materials displayed with the shutters for the phrases “SBCCI approved” or “ASTM approved.” Shutters that are SBCCI or ASTM approved will meet most local building codes.
What Type of Hurricane Shutters Do I Need?
There are several different types of hurricane shutters you can choose from depending on the size and specific needs of your home. The most common types of hurricane shutters are:
- Roll-Up Shutters
Rolling or roll-up shutters are the most common type of hurricane shutters you’ll find in storm regions. They are popular with homeowners since they’re easy to use, look stylish and sleek and don’t block the window when not in use.
- Accordion Shutters
These hurricane shutters have interlocking blades that fold into a small size when not in use. Accordion shutters are installed on tracks located above and below your window and can be pulled out and locked before a storm. These types of shutters are an excellent choice for larger windows and glass doors.
- Bahama Shutters
These shutters get their name from their easygoing style that adds character and functionality to your home. These straight shutters push out and stay at an angle while not in use, providing shade and cooling to your home, and pull in easily to lock before a storm.
- Colonial Shutters
These hurricane shutters look like the common colonial shutters found on many old- and modern-designed homes. They fan out to either side of the window while not in use and then use a fastening bar to secure during a storm. Colonial-style shutters are the most customizable type of hurricane shutters and come in a large variety of styles, colors and materials, so they make a great choice for homeowners that don’t want to compromise style with their storm protection.
- Storm Panels
The most affordable hurricane shutters are storm panels. These panels usually come in clear, tinted or aluminum options but need to be installed before a storm and then removed and stored when not in use, so although they are less expensive, they do require more work.
Hurricane Shutters for Sliding Glass Doors and Other Non-Traditional Windows
Sliding glass doors are a popular addition to residential and commercial real estate alike, but how do we protect them in the event of a hurricane? While there is no such thing as a “hurricane proof sliding glass door,” many property owners select impact or hurricane glass for all their windows and doors. Hurricane glass may be used for standard windows and doors, transom windows, and more.
Even if your home’s sliding glass or French doors are equipped with hurricane glass, it’s important to cover them before a storm to reduce the amount of damage they sustain. Storm panels and accordion shutters work well as hurricane shutters for sliding glass doors at your home or place of work.
Pair Your New Shutters with Hurricane Impact Windows
Once you’ve decided which hurricane shutters are right for your home, consider upgrading your windows to hurricane impact windows. Designed to withstand high winds and flying debris, hurricane impact windows paired with storm shutters help provide superior protection for your home. Schedule an appointment online or call 833-974-0209 to learn more about hurricane windows and shutters.