Hurricane Shutter Comparison Chart

09 Dec.,2024

 

Hurricane Shutter Comparison Chart

Description Aluminum slat folding shutter system that moves horizontally and folds out of the way on either side of the opening. The Nautilus rolling shutters can be used for both hurricane protection as well as securing businesses from theft and vandalism. They can be ordered to come down manually, electrically, or gear operated.

Bahamas: adds a decorative look to hurricane protection. This style is very popular in the islands, where the shutter is used to shade and keep rain out of screened openings.

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Colonials: Authentic swinging shutters fold back to the sides of the windows. Available in louvered and raised panels made of aluminum.

Lightweight flexible screen. Attached with straps and buckles to the wall, eave, or beams using large eyebolts or ground anchor screws. Cat 5 Screens can be made with a hood or made to be removed with a storage bag to be kept elsewhere. Doubles as a retractable hurricane screen and as a roll down privacy and shading screen. We have three different types of panels: steel, aluminum, and clear. These are the most cost effective products we have to offer, however they require more labor for install. They are installed with either a track system or with hardware. This is a flat sheet of UV-protected polycarbonate. These can be custom fit to your hurricane protection needs. Perfect for irregular shaped windows. Price (square footage)

Disclaimer: Prices are subject to change. This is the average square footage price within the industry at this time.

$20-25 for professional install

Not available for DIY

Square footage price cannot be determined due to multiple factors that contribute to the pricing.

Not available for DIY

Bahamas: $55-60 for professional install

Colonials: $60-65 for professional install

Not available for DIY

$12-20 for professional installation.

Not available for DIY

Square footage price cannot be determined due to multiple factors that contribute to the pricing.

Not available for DIY

Steel: $10-14 for professional install

Aluminum (.050): $12-18 for professional install

Clear: $16-20 for professional install

Not available for DIY

$16-20 for professional install

Not available for DIY

Pros Moderate priced, easily covers large openings; offers excellent protection from flying debris. Can be closed in seconds, deploys faster than most other systems. Offers increased security by providing locks. Can be used for upper windows & operated from the inside, if the building has single/double hung or sliding windows or in-swing or sliding glass doors. Commonly used to enclose entire balconies. Motorized systems can be automated by using timers, remote controls, or even cellphone or computer-operated systems. Offer good security for absentee owners or properties that are in evacuation zones. One of the better systems for resisting water intrusion, when using unvented slats. Can be manually operated from inside, so is suitable for all styles of operable or fixed windows and in-swing or out-swing doors.

Bahamas / Colonials : Due the decorative look these shutters are widely accepted where historical or architectural review committees strictly control aesthetics. Permanently mounted and usually only takes a screwdriver to attach the additional locking hardware. Adds a decorative accent to existing structures.

Bahama: One other benefit of this system is shading the window which can significantly reduce energy costs.

Lightest weight protection product on the market. Capable of easily covering large areas at a relatively low cost. Easily folds/rolls up for storage: some manufacturers provide storage bags with orders. The systems will prevent wind and water intrusion, even in the event of glass breakage from flying debris.

Fully motorized screen system that offers both hurricane protection as well as solar, wind, privacy, and comfort control instantly. Can reach large spans and with an efficient roll diameter.

Manual or motorized options: Hand crank, with removable crank, Remote control options, Smart home integration, Obstacle Detection System

Steel: Inexpensive system with good protection. Easy to deploy when used with track systems.

Aluminum (.050): Lighter weight metal panel option than steel with good protection. Corrosion-resistant when stored dry and separated from concrete floor

Clear: Corrosion-resistant; allows light inside: lighter than steel or aluminum.

Corrosion and UV resistant (XL-10 and MR-10); optically clear allows light inside. Can be left in place year-round, except on bedroom windows unless there are two ways to get out in the event of an emergency. Perfect for unique shaped windows. (ex. arches or octagon shaped windows) Cons Adds material around openings that is sometimes viewed as unattractive. Needs regular maintenance and cleaning to keep the system from seizing or freezing up. Cannot usually be installed on brick. Heaviest slat on the market and will require motors at around 45 sq. ft., which increases the cost. Requires vertical storm bars to keep the slats from being pulled out of the track system for large spans or high design pressures. Large hoods are not easy to hide and can be unattractive. Cannot usually be installed on brick. Most of these systems must be closed and secured from the outside, which makes this an impractical system above the first floor. This is one of the most expensive shutter systems on the market. The reinforcing in the screen is sewn; stitching can break down from long UV exposure weakening the system. Large Screens may require 2 or more persons to deploy. Not easy to install for openings above the first floor. Not recommended for installation on the edges of cantilevered concrete decks or balconies unless the design is inspected by an engineer. Cannot usually be installed on brick. This product may be considered less rigid in comparison to our other aluminum products. It is also one of the pricier hurricane shutter products on the market.

Steel: The heavier weight panels offer better protection but can be hard to handle in longer lengths or if trying to carry several panels at one time. Panels may corrode if improperly stored. Allows very little light inside

Aluminum (.050): Lighter weight metal panel option than steel with good protection. Corrosion-resistant when stored dry and separated from concrete floor

Clear: Corrosion-resistant; allows light inside: lighter than steel or aluminum.

If you decide to leave the panel fixed on the house, there will be limited air flow if you decide to open the window. Advance Deployment Time Needed Since the system is permanently mounted it can be closed very quickly, allowing more time to prepare for evacuation or sheltering in place. Since the system is permanently mounted it can be closed very quickly, allowing more time to prepare for evacuation or sheltering in place. Since the system is permanently mounted it can be closed very quickly, allowing more time to prepare for evacuation or sheltering in place. If stored in a bag, it must be taken out of storage and carried to each opening. Deploy well before tropical storm-force winds arrive. Since the system is permanently mounted it can be closed very quickly, allowing more time to prepare for evacuation or sheltering in place. After permanent anchors or track systems are installed, it could take as little as 10 minutes per opening to install. If you decide to not leave it permanently, it could take as little as 5 minutes per opening. Insurance Discounts Water Penetration Resistance May reduce water penetration by reducing the amount of water being blown against windows or doors. However, may not significantly reduce water penetration under high pressures, unless mounted on the edge of a porch or balcony several feet away from the opening being protected. May reduce water penetration by reducing the amount of water being blown against windows or doors. However, may not significantly reduce water penetration under high pressures, unless mounted on the edge of a porch or balcony several feet away from the opening being protected. Does not significantly reduce water penetration. Open louver systems or perforated panel backs will allow rain to run-off, which creates opportunity for window and door leaks. May reduce water penetration by reducing the amount of water being blown against windows or doors, particularly if installed some distance away. May reduce water penetration by reducing the amount of water being blown against windows or doors, particularly if installed some distance away. May reduce water penetration by reducing the amount of water being blown against window or door. May reduce water penetration by reducing the amount of water being blown against window or door. Porous or Non-Porous Does not keep wind pressure from building up on windows or doors. Generally, all systems are considered non-porous. Does not keep wind pressure from building up on windows or doors. Generally, all systems are considered non-porous. Does not keep wind pressure from building up on windows or doors. Generally, all systems are considered non-porous since the open weave is less than 10% ventilated. Does not keep wind pressure from building up on windows or doors. Generally, all systems are considered non-porous since the open weave is less than 10% ventilated. It is 9% porous. Therefore, considered non-porous since the open weave is less than 10% ventilated. Does not keep wind pressure from building up on windows or doors. Generally, all systems are considered non-porous. Does not keep wind pressure from building up on windows or doors. Generally, all systems are considered non-porous. Operation Pull the shutter sections together to shut and engage either the locking pins, locks or both depending upon the system&#;s design. Pull down, manually crank, or activate the motor using a switch or remote option.

Bahamas: Shutters use a telescoping arm with a locking thumb screw to hold them open.

Colonials: Shutters use a spring clip to hold them open. Closures will require additional bars that is stored when not in use.

Loops, buckles, straps, carabineers, clips, or grommets secure the system to permanent or removable anchor systems. Activate the motor using a switch or remote option to close the shutter when a storm is coming. Must be taken out of storage and carried to each opening. Deploy well before tropical storm-force winds arrive. May be permanently installed over windows that do not provide emergency escape from bedrooms. Removable panels must be stored and carried to each opening for deployment. Colors These hurricane shutters come in four different colors. These colors include: white, ivory, beige, and bronze, These hurricane shutters come in four different colors. These colors include: white, ivory, beige, and bronze, The Bahama and Colonial hurricane shutters come in 14 standard colors, 11 upcharge colors, or the color can be color matched to any custom color. The hurricane screens come in white, tan/white, tan/black, and black/white. The Storm Tex hurricane shutters come in 3 colors for screen and 6 colors for frame (custom colors can be used for an upcharge) Not applicable. Not applicable. Florida Building Code

Florida Building Code approved.

Florida Building Code approved.

Florida Building Code approved.

Florida Building Code approved.

Florida Building Code approved.

Florida Building Code approved.

Florida Building Code approved.

What Are Permanent Hurricane Shutters? Plus 5 Benefits

Living in South Florida means you have to deal with hurricanes and the damage they have potential to create. If you have a home in this area then protecting it from such damage is important. If you are in the market for hurricane shutters for your house in Fort Myers, Cape Coral, Naples or Southwest Florida you have probably seen the terms permanent shutters and non-permanent shutters. Hurricane shutters can be confusing if you are unfamiliar with them. There are so many options and styles that it can be overwhelming. For instance, what the heck is a permanent storm shutter? So in this article we answer the question &#;what are permanent hurricane shutters?&#; We then give examples of types of permanent hurricane shutters and also some of their pros and cons.


What are permanent storm shutters

Permanent hurricane shutters are those that are permanently attached to a property, whether that is shutters for your house, condo balcony shutters, or office. They can be used to protect your windows, doors, garage doors, screened in areas, and other parts of your home.
Permanent shutters are permanently installed or fastened to the exterior of your home securely. So there is no need to install the shutters before each storm or remove them after each storm. They are affixed to your property permanently. When a storm approaches you only have to deploy them, which is a fancy way of saying close them up! This creates a faster, easier process to secure your home vs. non-permanent shutters, which we talk about below.

Want more information on stainless steel hurricane screens? Feel free to contact us.


Roll down shutters on a lovely home in Fort Myers. These are one style of permanent hurricane shutters.

Types of permanent storm shutters

Below are some different styles of permanent hurricane shutters for your windows, doors, etc.:



Accordion shutters are another type of permanent storm protection. Here they are shown fully-closed on a beautiful home in Fort Myers.

Pros of permanent impact shutters

There are several benefits of permanent hurricane window protection products. They are a great way to hurricane proof your home. The benefits include:

An example of Bahama shutters on a home in Southwest Florida. This style of permanent storm shutter is excellent at adding shade and beauty to your home.

1. Permanent shutters are easy and fast to operate &#; don&#;t struggle with panels

The biggest benefit of permanent shutters is their ease of use vs. non-permanent types.

Permanent window storm covers are always on your home. As a result, deploying (closing) them is much easier than installing and uninstalling non-permanent types of shutters like metal panels.

Accordion shutters can be closed quickly by sliding and locking them. Similarly, roll shutters simply roll downward, either manually or automatically with electrically driven shutters. Bahama shutters and colonial shutters can just be closed and locked.

Learn more about motorized hurricane shutters.

2. Shade and light control &#; tame that Florida sun

Permanent shutters, such as accordion and roll shutters, give you the ability to partially close them to block and control light or shut light out completely. Being able to partially or fully close permanent storm shutters to control light allows you to get more enjoyment out of the use of your home. Other permanent styles, such as Bahama Shutters are always partially closed and provide shade all the time.

3. Added security protection &#; protect your family from intruders

Hurricane shutters that are permanently attached also provide a layer of security for your home. Roll shutters, for example, can also be used as security shutters. They completely block off access to entry points, such as windows and doors. If you are leaving your home unattended then these are a great way to protect your home against intruders.

4. They look better than panels &#; have the nicest looking house on the street

It is fair to say that some shutters look more attractive then others. But certain permanent styles like Bahama shutters and Colonial shutters can truly improve the look of your home. These options are not only tough as nails like all aluminum hurricane shutters. But they can also help you achieve amazing curb appeal that your neighbors will be jealous of.

5. No costs and hassles to install them and uninstall them before each storm

We mentioned before that permanent impact shutters are always attached and easy to operate. This means you can easily install them yourself in a short period of time. This is a huge benefit vs. non-permanent styles like aluminum, metal, plastic, or fabric panels that need to be installed and uninstalled every storm.

Non-permanent options are not so easy. They have a fairly time-consuming and labor intensive process. So unless you have 2+ days to install and uninstall your panels yourself you will most likely have to pay an installation service to put them on your property. This is one cost that you will not have to worry about with permanent hurricane shutters.

You may also like: Pros & Cons of Roll Down Shutters.



Cons of permanent storm shutters

Permanent shutters sound amazing! But no product is a perfect fit for every single person. This includes permanent shutters. So below we list some things to consider when deciding between permanent and non-permanent shutter options.

Higher cost vs. non-permanent options

Permanent shutters have a lot of benefits, and it is fair to say they offer more value for what you get. But like with anything you will pay more for added convenience and more features. If you are looking for the cheapest hurricane protection and don&#;t care about things like ease of use, shade control, added security, or beauty than permanent storm shutters may not be your best option. Non-permanent shutters, like storm panels or fabric hurricane panels might be a better fit.

You may also like: Pros & Cons of Hurricane Fabric.

They are permanently attached to your home

Being permanently attached offers several benefits as we showed above. And styles like accordion and roll shutters are designed to tuck away nicely, reducing their visual effect on your home. However, some folks just don&#;t like they way they look. So if you are not a fan of the way they look installed on your home then this may create a downside. If this is the case you could consider impact windows or non-permanent options.

On a side note, if you are also considering impact glass you can read our guide on impact windows vs. impact shutters. This may help you decide what the better choice for you is.



Conclusion

So to recap we defined permanent hurricane storm shutters as onesthat are permanently attached to a property. They include many styles including accordion, roll down, Bahama, and Colonial storm shutters. They offer several benefits, such as fast and easy operation, additional features, added functionality, security protection, good looks, and reduced costs long-term. On the flip side their many features mean they are priced higher than non-permanent options. They are also always attached to your home so this may not be ideal for some folks.

We hope you found value in this article. If you are interested in seeing the different styles of permanent hurricane shutters in person or getting an estimate of their cost we would love to help! Eurex Shutters has been proudly serving Greater Fort Myers and the rest of Southwest Florida since .




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