Hurricane glass
For those who want to skip the shutters altogether and install a permanent solution in the first place, hurricane glass -- or hurricane-impact windows -- provide the defensive advantages of shutters in an invisible fashion. The glass is usually 3/8-inch thick and features a film coating similar to safety glass products like windshields: If the windows crack or are smashed, the glass will stay embedded in the frame. In some areas, such as Miami-Dade County where building codes require protection on every opening, hurricane glass is becoming a popular option with new construction.
Cost: Approximately $13,000 (KeepSafe Maximum brand) to install on a typical 1,600-square-foot home.
Effect on insurance: Possible discount depending on state and carrier.
Pros: Eliminates the need for shutters. With hurricane glass, there is nothing to install or remove when a hurricane comes; it's always in place and allows for visibility outside of home. They are also effective in eliminating outside noise, protecting from intruders and shielding from UV rays.
Cons: Lots of labor costs involved and can be prohibitively expensive. The solution is permanent and must be installed by a contractor. The installation can cause other costs and work depending on the style of the home, thickness of the walls and window sizes.
Accordion shutters
Housed beside the doors or windows when not in use, these retractable aluminum shutters open up like an accordion to protect the openings during a storm. The shutters compress to roughly 1 inch per linear foot and keyed locking systems not only provide protection against wind but also forced entry. They also can be used to enclose balconies and doorways and are usually available in a variety of colors. Conveniently closed from inside the house, they can turn any home into a virtual fortress within a matter of minutes.
Cost: $15 to $20 per square foot.
Effect on insurance: Possible discount depending on state and carrier.
Pros: Easily and quickly deployed in the event of a storm. They are permanently fixed to the house and do not require storage.
Cons: Can look odd or unattractive on some houses. They use a wheel and glide system and tend to be weaker or break more often than some other products.
Bahama shutters
Bahama shutters are hinged at the top and move away from the wall at the bottom with the help of telescoping arms. Support arms are typically adjustable from 60- to 90-degree angles. The shutters not only provide defense from winds but also provide convenient light, ventilation and privacy control in everyday use. Bahama shutters often are used in sunny and coastal environments and can give a home a distinct, tropical appearance.
Cost: $15 to $20 per square foot.
Effect on insurance: possible discount depending on state and carrier.
Pros: Permanently attached to the home and can be quickly deployed. They are made of wood and can easily be painted to complement or match the home.
Cons: Almost permanently block full vision from windows and can make a home much darker. Some brands and styles have been noted to be weaker than other shutter products.
Colonial shutters
As a traditional style of window protection, colonial shutters attach to the wall beside each window then fold inward to close. Permanently fixed to the window, they can quickly and easily be closed when a storm is approaching. Held open by a clip system, they are closed and secured during a storm with a brace bar. With double hung windows, these shutters can also be closed from inside the home, reducing the need for a ladder.
Cost: Moderately priced when compared to other window protection products, roughly $18 to $30 per square foot.
Effect on insurance: Possible discount depending on state and carrier.
Pros: Can be easily closed by one person. They are decorative and can actually add curb appeal to a home.
Cons: Must be permanently installed on the home. They can be expensive and time-consuming for initial installation and may require professional installation.
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