During the violent storms that often hit Bradenton, FL you need to take measures to limit wind and rain damage. But if you can’t afford hurricane windows what do you do? Usually homeowners decide to install hurricane shutters to protect doors and windows. This helps reduce your risk of property damage, but can also protect you and your loved ones against injury from flying debris and broken glass. But what is the best option for you and your home? To help make that decision a little easier here is a breakdown of two of the more flexible hurricane shutters on the market—roll-down shutters and hurricane fabric.
Roll-Down Shutters
Also called rolling shutters, these are made of polycarbonate or high-quality metal. These impact resistant hurricane shutters attach above your windows. They roll up, hence the name, and store away in an enclosed box permanently attached to your home. And you can choose to have a manual operation with a crank. Or there is a mechanical operation so you can deploy the shutters with just the push of a button.
Pros of Roll-Down Shutters
Professionals all agree these are the easiest hurricane shutters to operate. You can also use them to protect more than just windows. These also work for doors, patios, balconies, porches, and second story openings. And because they are so easy to operate homeowners also use them for insulation, privacy, and theft protection. They are also known as some of the strongest, most durable, and most effective hurricane shutters available on the market.
Cons of Roll-Down Shutters
These hurricane shutters are not the most affordable option, and automatic roll-down shutters are more expensive than manual. The average price is about $20 to $30 per square foot. And if you choose the automatic version you will also need a backup battery system in case the power goes out. Otherwise you will not be able to use your shutters in the event of a storm.
Hurricane Fabric
Usually these storm barriers are made of mesh sheets or reinforced polyvinyl carbonate (PVC). You can attach hurricane fabric directly to the structure of your home with grommets, straps, and buckles. Or you can mount it on tracks.
Pros of Hurricane Fabric
This is a more affordable option, and easy to install because the material is so lightweight. There are also several colors to choose from so screens don’t detract too much from the aesthetic of your home.
Cons of Hurricane Fabric
There are a number of premade sizes you can choose from, but you typically cannot cut hurricane fabric to custom sizes by yourself. You will need to give custom measurements so the screen company can size them for you. But as you might imagine, when it comes to home protection and truly fortifying against wind and debris, the other, sturdier options will offer you more protection.
Do you think roll-down shutters or hurricane fabric is the right choice for your Bradenton, FL windows? Great! Contact us at Armored Dade Windows and Shutters. And if you want to take another look at other options, like panels or hurricane windows, you can visit us to check out some of the other products we offer. Our office is located at 8112 Cortez Rd. West, Bradenton, FL. 34210. Call 941-798-9010 to set up an appointment.
