Homeowners facing hurricane threats often ponder what type of hurricane protection is the best option to safeguard for their homes. The quick, effortless defense provided by motorized shutters, the beautiful design and reliability of Bahama Shutters, or the most flexible and new one the scene Hurricane Screens? Our article cuts through the clutter, delivering essential information on these types of protections, to equip you with the knowledge to make an informed choice based on convenience, durability, and cost. If you are new to the area and are not familiar with some of the terms in this article, you can reference this article from the Miami Dade county Hurricane Guide Terms.
One size does not fit all, choose what works best for you:
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- Motorized hurricane shutters offer convenience and ease during deployment with remote control systems, whereas manual roll up shutters require physical operation but both provide the same level of storm protection.
- Bahama shutters are deployed and visible 24/7. They offer shade, and security, but do block your view to the outside somewhat. They do comply with stringent building codes and add to home security and energy efficiency.
- Hurricane Screens have the flexibility to be used as needed, year round. So when not needed for storm protection, they can be used for insect control, and shade from the intense Florida sun.
- Proper installation and regular maintenance are essential for the effectiveness of hurricane protection no matter which option you choose. They may reduced insurance premiums, energy savings, and increase the property’s value.
Types of Storm and Hurricane Protection
Various types of hurricane shutters exist, each with unique protection levels and aesthetic appeals. They can be customized to suit your home’s specific needs, and include motorized and manual rolling shutters, Bahama shutters, and motorized retractable hurricane screens for large openings.
Retractable and Bahama shutters both provide solid protection for windows against shattering during storms and enhance home security by covering and locking over windows and doors. Meanwhile, hurricane screens offer protection for large openings like lanais, balconies, and boat docks. All these shutter types also provide an additional layer of insulation, improving a home’s energy efficiency and help maintain stable indoor temperatures.
Motorized vs. Manual Roll Up Hurricane Shutters
Motorized and manual roll up hurricane shutters differ slightly. The former presents ultimate convenience with instant deployment at a button’s touch and remote control via a mobile app. Conversely, manual roll down shutters, while providing the same protection level, necessitate physical effort through a hand crank system for operation.
Among the best in this realm is the Nautilus shutter, our flagship product, which is part of our most complete collection. It’s made of heavy-duty aluminum alloy, one of the top shutter materials, approved by Miami-Dade and Florida Building Code for wind and impact, ensuring it can protect your home. The Nautilus shutters feature a unique slat design that rolls up tighter than other shutters, making it aesthetically superior to others and an excellent choice for custom exterior shutters with raised panel options. With its outstanding features, the Nautilus shutter can be considered the perfect shutter for your home.
Beyond storm protection, they also offer additional security and can keep your rooms dark and cool, helping you save on energy bills.
Ease of UseConsideration of ease of use is pivotal in choosing between motorized and manual exterior shutters. With motorized shutters, users can easily operate them with a remote control, contrasting with manual shutters that require physical operation. It’s not difficult or heavy to operate the hand crank, just time consuming and a little tedious. The convenience of the motorized option becomes significant during storm preparations, when time is of the essence and manual shutters could be time-consuming to close. Depending on the size of the shutter, you could get the best of both worlds, a motorized shutter with a manual override. That way, if you do lose power during and after a storm, you can still operate your shutters as needed.
This factor alone could tip the balance in favor of motorized shutters for many homeowners. However, other considerations such as access to electrical outlets, the shutter type best suited for your home’s style and protection requirements are also significant.
Bahama Shutters
When it comes to versatility and aesthetic appeal, Bahama shutters stand out as decorative shutters. These shutters provide:- Continuous shade and privacy
- Permit a breeze when opened
- Adding a tropical aesthetic
- Enhance the architectural appeal of your home.
Even when shut for storm protection, custom Bahama shutters offer the following benefits:
- Natural light penetration
- Visibility
- Easy deployment in storm preparation
- Meeting the Florida Building Code’s High Velocity Hurricane Zone requirements
With these features, you can be confident that your home is secure.Our complete collection offers a variety of products made from high quality materials, including custom sizes for a decorative option. These items not only enhance your home’s curb appeal but also provide excellent protection.
Hurricane Screens
For those with large openings in their homes, hurricane screens are an excellent option. Our top-tier motorized hurricane screen systems have undergone testing and approval for the Florida Building Code and Miami Dade High Velocity Wind Zone for wind and impact. They are made of a patented combination of PVC and ballistic-proof materials like Kevlar, offering strength and durability while still allowing visibility.
In addition to storm protection, hurricane screens block 91% of the sun, helping to keep your outdoor spaces cool and improving your home’s AC efficiency. They also serve as insect screens, turning your patio into a pest-free environment when needed.
Choosing the Right Hurricane Protection for Your Home
The process of choosing the appropriate hurricane shutter for your home is multifaceted. It involves assessing your home’s vulnerabilities, understanding local building codes, and balancing cost and protection with what your home needs.The installation of hurricane shutters should be done with the correct hardware and secure attachment to the house to maintain their effectiveness during a storm. Professional installation of these types of shutters is recommended. When choosing which protection is best for your home, Florida homeowners need to consider the location of their home and how they plan to use it. For example, if you are in the central Florida area, you may be more concerned with flying debris than wind speed. You also may want to consider covering just certain openings with the highest possible impact, while closer to the coast you will want to cover all openings, not just the ones facing the water.
Other considerations for the perfect shutters is for security purpose. Many of our Florida residence only live here part time. Hurricane shutters provide an excellent security barrier to your home buy covering all the windows and large openings. This will also help keep the electric bill down by offering significant shade and blocking the suns rays before they can penetrate your home.
Considering Local RegulationsLocal building codes and regulations can help determine your selection of hurricane protection. For instance, in high wind-borne debris regions like Miami-Dade, Broward County, and Coastal Palm Beach County, buildings are subject to high-velocity hurricane zone (HVHZ) building codes.
Products used in these areas must meet the Miami-Dade Notice of Acceptance (NOA) regulations, ensuring they comply with the highest industry standards of hurricane protection. The Florida building code also mandates that all windows and doors must be covered entirely with high-impact storm shutters or replaced with impact-resistant glass.
Balancing Cost and Protection
Striking a balance between cost and protection is another crucial factor in selecting the appropriate hurricane shutters. The average cost for installing hurricane shutters varies based on size, style, and products used.
While both motorized and manual hurricane shutters offer the same high level of protection against severe weather conditions and flying debris, there might be a difference in cost due to the complexity of installation. Moreover, investing in hurricane shutters may lead to home insurance discounts for wind mitigation, offering a long-term financial incentive beyond the primary protection purpose.
Proper Installation and Maintenance of Hurricane ShuttersAfter selecting your hurricane shutters, ensuring their correct installation and maintenance is essential. This not only ensures their effectiveness during storms but also extends their lifespan, providing you with a limited lifetime warranty.
Regular lubrication of hurricane shutters & hurricane screens, especially before hurricane season, is crucial to prevent undue stress on mounting screws, brackets, and motors. Cleaning hurricane shutters & screens with soap, warm water, and a soft-bristle brush before lubrication can maintain their condition and ensure smooth operation.
Professional Installation vs. DIY
Motorized hurricane shutters require a more complex installation due to additional components such as electrical motors and remote control programming, compared to manual shutters. This can lead to a higher cost due to the need for permits, customization, and the inherent complexity of the installation process.
Alternatively, DIY installation can be more economical but necessitates meticulous planning, precision, and the appropriate tools. However, professional installation is recommended to ensure the hurricane shutters and hurricane screens are properly mounted and secure, which is crucial for protection during storms.
Regular Inspection and Cleaning
After installation, the condition and functionality of hurricane shutters depend heavily on regular inspection and cleaning. A thorough inspection is crucial to identify issues like loose screws or blockages in the tracks.
Prior to the hurricane season, a ‘dry run’ is necessary to ensure all shutter components are present, functional, and correctly labeled. Maintenance for shutters includes cleaning, lubricating, and rinsing with fresh water.
Lubricating and Adjusting Components
Regular lubrication and adjustment of components are essential for smooth operation of hurricane shutters and preventing damage. Lubrication should be applied evenly across the tracks, mounting rails, and slats to prevent debris buildup and ensure their smooth operation.
After lubrication, follow these steps:
- Wipe off any excess lubricant with paper towels.
- Test the shutters to ensure they can move up and down with ease.
- Adjust the tension of the hurricane shutters as needed to maintain smooth operation. Make sure they are not too loose or too tight.
Safety Features and Additional Benefits
Besides their primary role of providing protection during storms, hurricane shutters offer additional benefits. For example, hurricane shutters can be can be used for security, offering an additional layer of home peace of mind. They can also reduce insurance premiums, as the level of protection they provide often comes with applicable discounts.
Energy Efficiency
Hurricane shutters and screens can significantly contribute to your home’s energy efficiency. Motorized roll up hurricane shutters and screens facilitate frequent adjustments for shade and insulation, contributing to energy efficiency through effortless operation.
Motorized hurricane screens can help reduce energy costs by keeping the sun from coming through to your home from your patio. They lend a great aesthetic but also provide very practical benefits such as insect control as well.
Noise Reduction
Only roll up hurricane shutters can aid in reducing noise within the home, thus fostering a more serene living atmosphere because they can be a barrier against the external environment.
Increased Home Value
Investment in hurricane shutters and screens can also enhance your home’s value. Homes with hurricane shutters often receive higher appraisal values, allowing for a higher selling price.
Furthermore, the presence of hurricane shutters on a home is attractive to buyers in hurricane-prone areas, adding to the home’s marketability and perceived value. It’s an investment that not only protects your home but can also provide financial returns in the long run.
Ready to make the decision?
Choosing the right hurricane protection is a critical decision that requires careful consideration of several factors. From deciding between types of protection, assessing your home’s needs, considering local regulations, and balancing cost and protection, to ensuring proper installation and maintenance, each step plays a vital role in ensuring your home’s safety during a hurricane.
But remember, hurricane shutters and screens offer more than just storm protection. They provide additional benefits like energy efficiency, noise reduction, increased home security, and can even increase your home’s value. So, consider your options carefully and make an informed decision to safeguard your home and enjoy the additional benefits.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best material for Bahama shutters?
The best material for Bahama shutters is aluminum due to its long-lasting properties and sturdiness. The aluminum is powder coated with 20 standard colors. You’ll be sure to find a color and style that will match your home’s curb appeal.
Are Bahama shutters worth it?
Yes, Bahama shutters are worth it as they provide reliable hurricane protection and offer light control without the need for stowing away when not in use. They function like traditional shutters, making them convenient and effective.
Are motorized hurricane shutters more protective than manual ones?
Motorized and manual hurricane shutters offer the same level of protection, but motorized shutters provide greater convenience due to their ease of use.
What are Bahama shutters and how do they offer protection during storms?
Bahama shutters are permanently attached at the top of the window and offer continuous shade and privacy. They can be easily deployed in preparation for a storm, allowing for natural light penetration and visibility even when shut.
How does local building codes influence the selection of hurricane shutters?
Local building codes can impact the selection of hurricane shutters, as they may mandate specific types of protection and installation criteria, making it crucial to choose a solution that complies with these regulations. Make sure to understand the local regulations before making a selection.
Can hurricane screens be used for shade?
Hurricane screens can be used year round, not just for hurricane protection. They are an excellent option for shade as they provide between 90-95% UV protection, allowing you to still see out, but locking the harsh summer sun.
Can hurricane screens be used for insect control?
Hurricane screens are a perfect option if you are in need of insect control. The tight seal of the hurricane mesh in the side tracks allows you to use this system for insect control, shade and storm protection.