Pros And Cons Of Different Styles Of Storm Shutters

Storm shutters can help protect your home from wind and projectile damage during inclement weather. There are several styles of storm shutters available on the market and each has its own pros and cons. The best fit will depend on your personal preference in both form and function and specialized advice you should receive from your shutter or window contractor.

Colonial Shutters

Colonial storm shutters resemble the window-accenting decorative shutters found on many homes. While the decorative shutters are made from wood, the storm shutters are made of more durable materials like metal and fiberglass. The shutters are hinged and can be swung closed manually when a storm is approaching.

Colonial shutters are a good choice for those who care more about style than the ability to quickly shut all of the storm windows on your home. These storm shutters can stay up year round and add curb value to your home along with the protection.

Rolling Shutters

Rolling shutters are mechanical storm shutters that can be operated by hand or remote control. The shutters unfurl down the window like a pull-down curtain and so can be opened as little or as much as you desire. Fully drawn rolling shutters can serve as room darkening curtains to help cut your cooling costs during the summer.

Rolling shutters tend not to be visually interesting, but purchasing shutters in a neutral color can help them blend in with your home's exterior. The lack in appearance is more than made up for in function as rolling windows are extremely fast to deploy regardless of whether you use the remote. Quick protection is valuable in a sudden storm.

The shutters are often strong enough to withstand hurricane force winds. Ask your shutter or window contractor about the wind limits of each type of rolling shutter you are considering.

Bahamas Shutters

Bahamas shutters are essentially glorified awnings. The shutters stick out from the windows at an angle that blocks out the harsh glare of the sunlight while still allowing through some natural light and air. Bahamas shutters work particularly well on cottage- or cabin-style homes and the aluminum material comes in a variety of colors to best suit your home's design scheme.

The two potential downsides of Bahamas shutters are that the shutter can only be partially open or fully closed and that the aluminum material only offers a small degree of wind protection. In other words, you would not want to ride out a hurricane in a house equipped with Bahamas shutters.

If you have questions about your options, visit a shutter dealer like The Blind and Drapery Corner.