Hurricane Shutters or Impact Windows; Which is Right for You?

Hurricane shutters and hurricane impact windows both offer excellent protection from the winds, rain and debris of a hurricane. Which is the right option for your home?

Pros of Hurricane Shutters
• Shutters are easy to install. They fit over your existing windows and generally can be installed in a day or so.

• There are shutter options to fit budgets of all sizes. For example, one of the most cost-efficient options is removable storm shutters. These are custom-cut pieces of metal or polycarbonate that a homeowner hangs over windows and doors right before a hurricane approaches. However, if convenience is more important than price, then motorized rolling shutters may be a good option for your home. With the flick of a switch, these shutters will instantly roll down and protect your home before a hurricane.

• Hurricane shutters come in a variety of styles, so there is an option for every home style. For example, colonial shutters or Bahama shutters can add to the architectural details of your home and increase its curb appeal. If you prefer a home without the look of shutters, then removable storm shutters could be a good option for your home.

Cons of Hurricane Shutters

• With the exception of motorized rolling shutters, all other shutters must be individually hung or locked shut from the outside prior to a hurricane’s arrival. You will need to allow sufficient time for this. Additionally, if your home has more than one floor, you will need to assess if you feel comfortable standing on a tall ladder to hang or lock the shutters.

• If you are out of town when a hurricane hits and your shutters are not locked shut, your home will not be protected from the elements.

• With the exception of polycarbonate removable storm panel shutters, when your shutters are locked, no light will come through. If you lose power in the hurricane and have no natural light coming in, you may need to use flashlights, lanterns or candles during the day and night.

Pros of Hurricane Impact Windows
• Having hurricane impact windows means that you don’t have to take any additional steps to safeguard your windows before a hurricane – one less item on the to-do list.

• Hurricane impact windows are a highly desirable home feature and can increase the value of your home.

• Not only do hurricane impact windows protect against hurricanes, but they add an extra layer of security to your home. Because they are so strong, it is much harder for burglars to break in through your windows than with traditional non-impact windows.

• Due to their thickness, impact windows can reduce outdoor noise pollution entering your home.

Cons of Hurricane Impact Windows
• The only downside to hurricane impact windows is that they can be more costly than shutters, especially if you have a large number of windows.
So which option is best for you – hurricane shutters or impact windows? Stop by our showroom in Boca or call us at 561-241-9463. One of our friendly and knowledgeable associates can discuss the details of your home and budget and help you to decide the best option for you.

CitiQuiet Windows and Doors
Since 2012, CitiQuiet Windows and Doors has been engineering and installing high-quality impact windows, doors, and shutters for residential and commercial buildings throughout Palm Beach, Broward, and Miami-Dade Counties.
Based in Boca Raton, CitiQuiet Windows and Doors offers a turnkey service to clients including initial design, engineering, and permitting, installation and finish work. From elegant French doors to hurricane impact-resistant windows and sliding glass doors, CitiQuiet Windows and Doors has your solution.
At CitiQuiet Windows and Doors, we carry only the highest-quality products from the nation’s top manufacturers – and we stand behind everything we sell. For a free estimate, contact CitiQuiet Windows and Doors at 561-241-9463, visit us at citiquiethurricanewindows.com, or stop by the showroom today at 910 Clint Moore Road, Boca Raton, FL 33487.
With an A+ rating from Better Business Bureau (BBB), CitiQuiet Windows and Doors consistently strives to exceed customer expectations.