Hurricane shutters are often misunderstood, surrounded by myths that can mislead homeowners. From installation concerns to durability and cost, these myths create doubts about investing in hurricane shutters. In this post, My City Windows debunk 10 of the most common myths about hurricane shutters, providing clarity on their actual benefits, functionality, and value. Understanding the truth behind these misconceptions will help you make informed decisions, especially if you live in hurricane-prone areas. Read on to uncover the real facts about hurricane shutters and why they are a wise choice for protecting your property.
1: Hurricane Shutters Are Only for High-Intensity Hurricanes
Many assume that hurricane shutters are only necessary for Category 4 or 5 hurricanes. However, shutters offer crucial protection even for lower-category storms, which can still produce dangerous winds and flying debris. Hurricanes of all intensities can damage windows, posing risks to both property and people inside. Hurricane shutters provide a barrier that minimizes window damage and prevents interior destruction. Whether it’s a tropical storm or a powerful hurricane, installing shutters can add an extra layer of security for your home, safeguarding your property regardless of the storm’s intensity.
2: Hurricane Shutters Are Too Expensive
Cost is often cited as a reason to avoid hurricane shutters, with many believing they are prohibitively expensive. While some types, like custom-made metal shutters, may require a higher investment, there are affordable options available. Fabric storm panels, for instance, provide cost-effective protection without compromising safety. Additionally, hurricane shutters are a long-term investment that can reduce repair costs after a storm and may even lower insurance premiums. When viewed as an investment in home safety, hurricane shutters prove to be both practical and economical over time.
3: Plywood Offers the Same Protection as Hurricane Shutters
Homeowners sometimes choose plywood as a cheaper alternative to hurricane shutters, thinking it offers similar protection. While plywood can be effective to a degree, it lacks the durability and structural strength of certified hurricane shutters. Over time, plywood can weaken, warp, and deteriorate, especially in humid, storm-prone regions. Unlike plywood, hurricane shutters are specifically designed and tested to withstand the force of high winds and flying debris, ensuring better and more consistent protection. Shutters are also easier to install and require less maintenance, making them a more reliable option for long-term protection.
4: Hurricane Shutters Are Ugly and Lower Curb Appeal
Some homeowners worry that hurricane shutters will diminish their home’s visual appeal. However, modern hurricane shutters come in various styles and designs, allowing you to find options that blend well with your home’s exterior. Accordion shutters, colonial shutters, and roll-down shutters can complement different architectural styles while providing protection. Many manufacturers offer customizable colors and finishes to match your home’s aesthetic. Not only do these shutters enhance safety, but they also offer a stylish appearance, debunking the myth that shutters are only about function and not form.
5: Hurricane Shutters Are Difficult to Install
Installation complexity is a common concern, leading some to avoid hurricane shutters altogether. While some types, like roll-down shutters, may require professional installation, others, like storm panels, are user-friendly and can be installed by homeowners. Many companies offer comprehensive hurricane shutter installation services, ensuring proper setup without hassle. Additionally, once installed, shutters are easy to operate and require minimal effort during storm preparations. Modern advancements in shutter technology have made installation much more accessible, making it a manageable task for almost any homeowner.
6: Hurricane Shutters Can Only Be Used for Hurricanes
It’s a common misconception that hurricane shutters are only useful for hurricanes. In reality, they provide protection against various extreme weather events, including tropical storms, severe winds, and tornadoes. Hurricane shutters can also serve as additional security measures, preventing break-ins and offering privacy when desired. Their versatile functionality extends beyond hurricanes, making them a valuable year-round addition to any property. By investing in hurricane shutters, homeowners gain multi-purpose protection, enhancing safety in a range of weather conditions and security situations.
7: Home Insurance Will Cover All Damages, So Shutters Aren’t Necessary
While home insurance offers some financial support after a storm, it does not fully compensate for the emotional and physical toll of property damage. Hurricane shutters help minimize damage in the first place, potentially reducing the need to file a claim. Insurance companies often recognize the value of shutters, and many offer discounts on premiums for homes equipped with them. By investing in hurricane shutters, you’re not only protecting your home but also potentially lowering your insurance costs. Shutters are a preventive measure that offer immediate benefits beyond what insurance alone can cover.
8: Only Coastal Homes Need Hurricane Shutters
Many believe that only homes near the coast are at risk from hurricanes and thus need shutters. However, hurricanes can impact inland areas with strong winds and flying debris. Hurricanes weaken as they move inland but still pose significant risks, including broken windows and property damage. Hurricane shutters offer essential protection for homes in various locations, not just coastal areas. Inland residents can benefit from this added safety measure, as storms are unpredictable and can bring destructive winds well beyond the shoreline.
9: Windows Will Shatter With or Without Hurricane Shutters
Some think that windows will break regardless of hurricane shutters, viewing them as an ineffective barrier. However, hurricane shutters are designed to withstand the impact of high-velocity debris, significantly reducing the chances of window breakage. Shutters act as a shield, distributing the force of impact and preventing glass shattering. By preventing window breakage, shutters help maintain the structural integrity of the home, reducing internal damage and protecting occupants. This protection is crucial in extreme weather conditions, making hurricane shutters a powerful defense against shattered windows.
10: Hurricane Shutters Don’t Increase Property Value
Homeowners often overlook the potential property value boost from hurricane shutters. By installing shutters, you’re enhancing your home’s resilience, which can be appealing to prospective buyers, especially in storm-prone regions. Many buyers are willing to pay more for homes with added safety features like hurricane shutters, viewing them as a valuable asset. Furthermore, shutters reduce repair costs and protect the interior from damage, maintaining your home’s value. In regions prone to hurricanes, having hurricane shutters can increase your property’s appeal and overall market value.
FAQs
1. What types of hurricane shutters are available?
There are several types of hurricane shutters, including roll-down shutters, accordion shutters, Bahama shutters, colonial shutters, storm panels, and fabric storm panels. Each type has unique advantages and is suitable for different budgets, aesthetic preferences, and levels of convenience.
2. Are hurricane shutters required by law in certain areas?
In hurricane-prone regions, local building codes may require homes to have hurricane protection for windows, especially in high-risk zones. However, specific requirements vary by region, so it’s best to check local building codes for exact regulations.
3. How much do hurricane shutters cost?
The cost varies widely depending on the type, material, and size of the shutters, as well as the complexity of installation. Basic storm panels can be as low as $5–$15 per square foot, while high-end options like roll-down shutters may range from $20–$50 per square foot. Installation may add to these costs.
4. Can I install hurricane shutters myself, or do I need a professional?
Some hurricane shutters, like storm panels, are relatively easy to install and can be done by homeowners with basic tools. However, more complex systems like roll-down shutters usually require professional installation to ensure they work correctly and meet local safety standards.
5. Do hurricane shutters block out all light and visibility?
Not all hurricane shutters completely block light and visibility. For example, some roll-down shutters and polycarbonate storm panels allow light through, offering protection while still letting in some natural light. Fabric storm panels also allow a bit of visibility.
Conclusion
Debunking these myths about hurricane shutters sheds light on their true advantages and dispels misconceptions that may prevent homeowners from investing in them. Whether for their aesthetic appeal, durability, versatility, or cost-effectiveness, hurricane shutters offer reliable protection and peace of mind. Installing hurricane shutters is a proactive step towards safeguarding your property, reducing potential damage, and enhancing property value. Embrace the facts and make an informed choice to protect your home, knowing that hurricane shutters are a wise investment in safety and security, regardless of the storm season.