What are Hurricane Shutters?
Hurricane shutters also known as rolling shutters, security shutters, or storm panels, are protective coverings installed on windows and doors to safeguard homes from the impact of severe storms or hurricanes. These shutters are specifically designed to shield windows from flying debris, which can cause extensive damage during high winds. By effectively safeguarding the windows, hurricane shutters significantly reduce the risk of them breaking. This is crucial because once windows are shattered, the powerful winds and pressure from the storm can enter your home, potentially leading the further destruction such as roof loss or structural collapse. The installation of hurricane shutters is a vital precautionary measure to protect homes during hurricane events.
Hurricane-proof windows, including hurricane panels and accordion shutters, are designed kind of like windshields on a car. The idea is that these windows are made of double-layered glass that does not shatter when it is put under a lot of impact. The double layers of glass in these windows are also bonded together with a clear, strong interlayer that can withstand extremely high winds and even the pressure of wood flying into them.
Hurricane panels are typically made from durable materials and can be easily installed over existing windows and doors to provide an additional layer of protection. These panels come in various designs, such as corrugated or flat, and can be stored compactly when not in use. Accordion shutters, as the name suggests operate similarly to an accordion, folding and unfolding to cover windows when needed. They are permanently affixed to the sides of windows and can be quickly deployed during a storm. Accordion shutters offer convenience and are easy to use.
Hurricane shutters are much more affordable, which is why many customers go with shutters instead of windows. However, it is very important to make sure that hurricane shutters are installed by professionals because if they are not put on properly, they won’t work. But after hurricane shutters are installed properly they will increase the value of your home and provide the protection you need from storms. Another small perk of choosing hurricane shutters is they come in many different colors and designs, so you don’t have to worry about them clashing with the aesthetics of your home.
Although hurricane-proof windows are more expensive than hurricane shutters, the windows are worth the investment if you have the money. The increase in property value is much more when you have hurricane windows installed, than when you have hurricane shutters. Why? Well, because you paid more for the windows than you would pay for hurricane shutters. After all is said and done the money you spend or save to protect your home will most likely even out in the end. You spend less now and save more when you choose hurricane shutters, but you spend more now and make more later when you sell your home when you choose the hurricane-proof windows.
It is worth noting that in addition to hurricane shutters and hurricane-proof windows, other protective options like retractable awnings and retractable solar screens can also enhance the safety and comfort of your home. Retractable awnings provide shade and protection against the sun’s glare, while retractable solar screens help regulate indoor temperatures and reduce energy consumption.
Contact Rolltex Shutters for more information about the hurricane shutters we have available. Our contractors are happy to answer any questions you may have about our shutters. We are currently serving customers in and around the Houston, TX area!