Hurricane shutters have become an integral part of protecting Florida homes and businesses during hurricane season. They provide a level of security and peace of mind for those living in areas prone to hurricanes.
From humble beginnings as makeshift plywood boards to today’s high-tech materials, the evolution of hurricane shutters is a testament to human ingenuity.
In this blog, we will take a look at the history of hurricane shutters and how they have developed over time.
Plywood Shutters
Plywood shutters were made by cutting the plywood to fit over the windows. They were then attached to windows with bolts and wing nuts. In the 1950s, plywood shutters were the most popular type of hurricane protection. These shutters were relatively cheap and easy to install.
However, one of the main disadvantages of plywood shutters was their weight. They were difficult to handle and required more than one person to install them. Additionally, they were not very durable and need to be replaced after each hurricane season.
Aluminum Shutters
After a decade, aluminum shutters were introduced as an alternative to plywood shutters. They were lightweight, easy to install, and more durable than plywood shutters.
Thus, they provided better protection against hurricane winds and debris. However, they were still not the perfect solution as they required maintenance and were prone to rust.
Accordion Shutters
Accordion shutters were made of aluminum or polycarbonate material. They were designed to slide along a track to cover the windows. They could be installed seamlessly and were easy to operate. Moreover, they allowed seamless opening and closing.
These shutters were an excellent choice for Florida homeowners who wanted a more convenient and durable option for hurricane protection. They were also popular because they could be left in place year-round. Thus, providing additional security and protection against intruders.
Roll-Down Shutters
Roll-down shutters were introduced in the 1980s and quickly became a preferred choice for hurricane protection. They were also made of aluminum or polycarbonate and were designed to roll down over the windows. These shutters were operated either manually or electrically.
Roll-down shutters were popular because they were low-maintenance and did not require any additional storage space when not in use. They were also aesthetically pleasing, as they could be painted to match the aesthetics of the home.
High-Tech Materials
Today, hurricane shutters are made of a variety of high-tech materials, including polycarbonate, reinforced fabric, and even Kevlar. These materials are lightweight, durable, and provide unparalleled protection against hurricanes.
- Polycarbonate shutters are made of virtually indestructible thermoplastic material.
- Reinforced fabric shutters are made of a strong, woven fabric that is reinforced with Kevlar.
- Kevlar shutters are made of a material that is known for their strength and durability.
In addition to these high-tech materials, some hurricane shutters also incorporate advanced technologies like automatic sensors and remote controls. These features allow homeowners to quickly and easily deploy their shutters from the safety of their homes.
Today, homeowners have a variety of options to choose from, each offering unique benefits and advantages. As we continue to develop new technologies and materials, hurricane shutters will likely continue to evolve, providing even greater hurricane protection.
At Shutters239, we understand the importance of keeping your home safe during hurricane season. That’s why we offer a wide range of hurricane shutters in Cape Coral and the surrounding areas.
Our selection includes everything from traditional accordion shutters to sleek, modern roll-up shutters. Our team is dedicated to helping you find the most suitable hurricane shutter for your Florida home.
When you choose Shutters239 for your hurricane protection needs, you can rest assured that you’re getting the best of both worlds – top-quality products and exceptional service.
Schedule a consultation today and let us help you find the right hurricane shutter in Cape Coral, FL!
