SHUTTER TIPS

hutters protect not only the windows or doors they cover, but also possessions and people inside the building. Once a window or door has been breeched by hurricane winds tremendous pressure is brought to bear on interior walls and upward pressure on the building's roof. This can lead to roof failure which exposes the entire contents of the building to the storm. Shutters are a first line of defense against the hurricane. Much of the damage and building failure in Hurricane Andrew could have been prevented by well installed hurricane shutters over windows and doors.

Since there is an array of shutters available, no matter what type you decide on, it is important to remember that shutters are only as effective as the quality of their installation. Ensure that the shutters or their anchors are properly installed using quality materials that meet the building code for your area.

TYPES OF SHUTTERS

STORM PANELS: These vertical shutters are stored in stacks and are installed when a hurricane warning is issued. They usually require a steel channel on the top and bottom of the window that must be anchored prior to installation of the shutters.

ACCORDION SHUTTERS: These folding, permanent shutters slide in pre-installed tracks to protect windows and doors.They work well to protect sliding glass doors and condominiums. No storage is required.

ROLLDOWN SHUTTERS: These are pre-installed,
PVC or metal louver shutters. They are housed in a box above each window and roll down along a set of tracks on either side and lock at the bottom. If they are motorized they can be closed with the flick of a switch. For large windows and doors, reinforcing rods must be inserted after deployment to insure shutter strength.