Hurricane Shutters FAQ
Locally Manufactured Outdoor Shutters, Storm Shutters, and Hurricane Shutters.
Your Complete Hurricane Shutter FAQ
Everything homeowners want to know about hurricane shutters — types, safety, installation, and how the right system protects your home during major Gulf Coast storms.
Kinds of Security Storm Shutters
➤ Accordion Shutters move horizontally along upper and lower tracks. Interlocking aluminum blades form a strong protective wall that resists hurricanes, flying debris, theft, forced entry, and helps reduce outdoor noise and glare.
➤ Bahama Shutters provide privacy, shade, storm protection, and a coastal look. They help reduce solar heat over windows, porches, and carports, and can be used to enclose terraces, patios, and balconies.
➤ Colonial Hinged Shutters are mounted beside the windows and swing closed. They can be locked to discourage unauthorized entry and vandalism while providing hurricane-force wind resistance.
➤ The Roll Shutter rolls up or down over the opening, offering excellent protection against flying debris and hurricane-force winds while guarding against theft and forced entry. They are energy efficient, great for noise reduction, and work well as exterior window treatments that complement many architectural styles.
➤ Storm Panels are formed aluminum panels designed for quick, easy installation. These lightweight panels provide strong storm and security protection and store flat in a garage or closet until needed.
What are the chances that South Alabama will be hit by a hurricane?
The central Gulf Coast sees regular tropical storms and hurricanes. Long-term climate data shows that coastal communities in South Alabama can expect repeated tropical systems over time, with the possibility of major hurricanes in any given decade. Because recent decades have brought more intense storms, homeowners in Baldwin and Mobile counties should plan as if a significant hurricane will affect their area during the life of their home.
Should I tape my windows when a hurricane threatens?
No. Taping windows is largely a myth. It does not meaningfully strengthen glass and offers no protection from flying debris. After the storm, taped glass is harder to clean and remove. Your time is far better spent installing shutters over doors and windows and securing any loose items around your property.
Should I put shutters over my doors?
Yes. Any door with significant glass — sliding doors, French doors, or wide patio doors — should be protected, because they are vulnerable to both wind and impact. In past major hurricanes, double doors and garage doors have failed when they were not reinforced or protected. Properly specified shutters and/or door bracing greatly reduce the risk of failure.
Why should I get hurricane shutters?
Shutters protect openings from wind and wind-borne debris. Once a window or door fails, hurricane winds can pressurize the interior of your home and push upward on the roof structure, often leading to catastrophic damage. Well-installed hurricane shutters defend the glass, reduce internal pressure changes, and help protect both your home and everything inside it.
Why should I bother with shutters if I live in an evacuation zone?
Even if you evacuate, your home remains in the path of wind and debris. Shutters protect the structure and contents of the building whether you are there or not. While storm surge can overwhelm low-lying areas, not every property in an evacuation zone will flood — but nearly all of them will experience damaging winds. Shutters are a smart layer of protection for your investment.
What are the best kind of shutters?
The “best” shutters are the ones that balance cost, protection level, and ease of use for your situation:
For many coastal homeowners, accordion or roll shutters offer the best mix of strength and convenience. Fixed storm panels provide excellent protection for a lower upfront cost, but require more effort to install and remove each time. The most important factor is professional installation using quality hardware that meets Gulf Coast building standards — shutters are only as good as the way they are anchored to your home.