Impact Windows vs Hurricane Shutters

Pros and Cons between Impact Windows vs Hurricane Shutters

Impact Windows This glass can withstand hurricane debris and eliminate the need for hurricane shutters. It costs more, especially to retrofit an older house. Modern code requirements, which already require hurricane shutters or other protections on new houses, make the glass a more practical option at the time of construction.

PROS

Eliminates the need for hurricane shutters.
The most practical hurricane glass is similar to a car windshield, with a durable plastic-like layer sandwiched between glass. The outside layers break, but the center prevents a hole.

CONS

Must be installed by a window contractor.
The frame must be replaced along with the panes to meet code.

Average cost: $35-$50 a square-foot, including new window frames and layered hurricane glass
Average storm preparation time: None.

Panels These steel or aluminum shutters attach to the walls around windows and doors on bolts or tracks. Storm panels are corrugated, and each piece overlaps the next for maximum strength. There are several styles of storm panels to choose from.

The first style incorporates both tracks and bolts. The top of the panel is slipped into a track above the window, and the bottom of the panel is secured with bolts that are permanently set beneath the window.

The second style uses a set of C-shaped tracks above and below the windows and doors. Panels slide into the tracks from either side and must be manually aligned with the holes on the panels.

The third style uses only bolts permanently set into the wall beside the windows and doors. They can be loosened as the panel is hung horizontally and screwed down to secure it.

The biggest problem with storm panels is that homeowners often don’t check them when they buy a home. Many discover later that panels are missing or were cut improperly, or are too heavy to install themselves.

PROS

Most inexpensive of the permanent shutter systems.
Removable, so they don’t change the look of the house when not in use.
Strong, and can provide excellent protection for both doors and windows.

CONS

Require storage, but usually stack together tightly and take up little space.
Can be difficult to handle; hanging can require more than one person.Sometimes don’t line up properly.
Sometimes don’t line up properly.
Have sharp edges.

Average cost: $7-$8 per square foot;
Average storm preparation time: 15 minutes per window depending on the style.

Accordion Shutters: these one- or two-piece hurricane shutters are housed beside the windows or doors when not in use. They unfold accordion-style to cover and protect during a storm.

PROS

Permanently affixed beside the windows and don’t require any extra storage space.
Can easily be made storm-ready by one person.
Some models can be locked with a key and may be used as a theft deterrent.

CONS

Can look bulky and out-of-place on some houses. Consider the aesthetics before having them installed.
Glide on wheels, and have the potential to break more easily than some of the other systems.

Average cost: $16-$20 per square foot.
Average storm preparation time: 15-30 minutes for an entire house.

Colonial Shutters: these are two-piece louvered shutters that attach to the wall beside each window. The fold together to protect the window.

PROS

Are permanently affixed beside the windows and don’t require any extra storage space.
Can easily be made storm-ready by one person.
Are decorative; they can beautify as well as protect your home.

CONS

Some types of colonials require a storm bar or center rod to lock the shutters in place. This can increase installation time.
Can’t be used to protect doors, and must be combined with another shutter system to ensure complete home protection.

Average cost: $18-$30 per square foot
Average storm preparation time: At least 45minutes to an hour for an entire house.

Bahamas Shutters These one-piece louvered shutters attach directly above the windows and prop open to provide shade for the window. Bahamas shutters are storm-ready when lowered and secured to the wall.PROS

PROS

Permanently affixed above the windows and don’t require any extra storage space.Can easily be made storm-ready by one person.
Can easily be made storm-ready by one person.
Provide permanent shade and privacy, even in the open position.

CONS

Have traditionally been weaker than other systems, but the newest models protect well.
Some people complain that they block too much light.
Design limits their use. They can’t be used to protect doors.

Average cost: $18-$30 per square foot
Average storm preparation time: 15-30 minutes for an entire house.

Roll Down Shutters These shutters attach above the window. They roll up and store in an enclosed box when not in use. They are lowered either manually by a hand crank or automatically by push button, and lock in place for storm protection.

PROS

Are permanently affixed above the windows and don’t require any extra storage space.
Can easily be made storm-ready by one person.
Offer some of the best protection and make an excellent theft deterrent.

CONS

Most expensive of the popular shutter systems.
Push-button-operated roll-down shutters require a battery backup system so the shutters can be lowered and raised during power outages.

Average cost: $30-$55 per square foot
Average storm preparation time: Minimum; probably the easiest shutter to operate.