When hurricane season rolls in, your home’s first line of defense is its windows. Without proper protection, high winds, debris, and heavy rain can cause serious damage — and compromise your family’s safety.


One of the smartest ways to safeguard your home is by installing hurricane-rated window shutters. In this guide, our window treatment company will walk you through everything you must know about hurricane shutters and rolling exterior shutters, including:


  • Why hurricane shutters matter.
  • The most effective types of storm shutters.
  • How to choose the best hurricane shutters in 5 simple steps.


Do You Really Need Hurricane Shutters?


Yes, you really need hurricane shutters, especially if your home is located in a high-risk area. Beyond preventing glass from shattering, the right window shutters can:


  • Prevent sudden internal pressure changes that can damage your roof.
  • Reduce insurance premiums.
  • Add resale value by increasing your home’s safety rating.


4 Types of Storm Shutters for Protecting Your Home


  • Rolling Shutters
  • Bahama Shutters
  • Accordion Shutters
  • Colonial Shutters


1. Rolling Shutters


Best for: Full-time protection, large window expanses, and easy operation.


How they work: Installed in a permanent housing above the window or door; they roll down on a track manually or via a motor.


Pros: Sleek design, minimal prep time, dual function as security and energy-saving solution.


Motorized option: Yes; custom motorized window shades & shutters offer remote or smart-home integration.


2. Bahama Shutters


Best for: Coastal aesthetics + moderate protection.


How they work: Top-hinged and propped open like an awning; closed and secured for storms.


Pros: Shade + protection, attractive tropical appearance.


Motorized option: Not typically.


3. Accordion Shutters


Best for: Budget-conscious homeowners who want quick deployment.


How they work: Permanently mounted and unfold horizontally across the window.


Pros: Easy to use, lower cost, permanent installation.


Motorized option: Available, but most are manual.


4. Colonial Shutters


Best for: Traditional or historic homes.


How they work: Two louvered panels that swing shut and secure over the window.


Pros: Adds architectural charm, no storage needed.


Motorized option: Rare; usually manual.


How to Choose the Best Window Shutters for Hurricane Season


  1. Identify Your Risks
  2. Check Local Building Codes
  3. Prioritize Features
  4. Select Material & Mounting
  5. Schedule a Professional Consultation


Step 1: Identify Your Risks


Confirm whether your home is in a designated wind-borne debris region or hurricane evacuation zone. This will guide your selection and permit requirements.


Step 2: Check Local Building Codes


Many coastal areas require shutters to meet impact standards. Ensure your selection is certified accordingly.


Step 3: Prioritize Features


Consider what matters most:


  • Quick deployment? Go motorized.
  • Tight budget? Manual accordion shutters work.
  • Aesthetic value? Choose Colonials or Bahamas.


Motorized vs. Manual Window Shutters: What’s Right for You?

Feature Manual Shutters Motorized Shutters
Operation Time Requires physical effort & time Instant, often with the push of a button
Power Source Needed? No Yes (battery backup recommended)
Maintenance Minimal Slightly more for motors or remote systems
Cost Lower upfront Higher upfront, more convenience
Smart Integration No Yes — great for whole-home automation


If convenience and quick storm prep matter to you, consider investing in motorized window shades or shutters that can be controlled via app, remote, or voice command.


Step 4: Select Materials & Mounting


Choose between surface-mounted or recessed tracks depending on your home’s architecture. Work with a window treatment company that understands structural integration.


What Materials Should You Choose?


  • Aluminum: Lightweight, rust-resistant, & durable; ideal for rolling exterior shutters.
  • Steel: Stronger than aluminum, but heavier and more prone to corrosion.
  • Polycarbonate: A newer option offering clear visibility; great for maintaining natural light.
  • Wood Shutters: Typically used in aesthetic styles like Colonial or Bahama, but requires more upkeep.


➡ Pro Tip: If you're investing in motorized window shutters, aluminum is typically the preferred material due to its strength-to-weight ratio and longevity.


Step 5: Schedule a Professional Consultation


Don’t guess. Collaborate with experts who can take accurate measurements, pull permits (if needed), and help you explore custom window treatments that offer protection without sacrificing curb appeal.



Prepare Properly to Protect Your Property from Hurricanes


When the forecast shows a storm brewing, the last thing you want to do is scramble to cover your windows with plywood. The right custom window treatments make preparation easy, fast, and effective.


At All About Windows, we specialize in both form and function. Whether you're upgrading for hurricane season or designing for year-round convenience, we’ll help you choose the best option to protect what matters most.


To schedule a free consultation and explore our hurricane-rated shutter systems, contact us now.