Understanding Shutters and Their Impact on Hurricane Protection in Santa Rosa Beach Florida
- The Chill Penguin
- Jan 30
- 3 min read
When hurricane season approaches Santa Rosa Beach, protecting your home becomes a top priority. Bahama shutters, along with Colonial and Board and Batten styles, offer more than just curb appeal—they provide essential protection against storms. Knowing the differences between these shutter types, their styles, and whether they are storm rated or decorative can help you make the right choice for your home’s safety and insurance savings.
Different Styles of Shutters and Their Looks
Bahama Shutters
Bahama shutters are mounted above windows and hinge at the top, allowing them to be propped open or closed. They are popular in coastal areas like Santa Rosa Beach because they provide shade and ventilation when open, and strong protection when closed.
Louver size varies: Louvers can be narrow or wide. Narrow louvers offer a sleek, modern look and better airflow, while wide louvers provide a more traditional appearance and stronger impact resistance.
Material options: Aluminum and polycarbonate are common, with aluminum offering durability and polycarbonate providing clear visibility when closed.
Colonial Shutters
Colonial shutters consist of two panels that swing open and closed from the sides of the window. They have a classic, symmetrical look with evenly spaced louvers.
Louver size: Typically medium-sized louvers that balance light control and protection.
Style: Colonial shutters add charm and a historic feel to homes, fitting well with traditional architecture.
Board and Batten Shutters
Board and batten shutters are made of vertical boards held together by horizontal battens. They offer a rustic, sturdy look.
Louver style: These shutters do not have louvers but solid panels, which provide full coverage.
Appearance: They can be painted or stained to match home exteriors and are often used on cottages or farmhouse-style homes.
Storm Rated vs. Decorative Shutters
Not all shutters provide hurricane protection. Understanding the difference between storm rated and decorative shutters is crucial.
Storm rated shutters are tested and certified to withstand high winds and flying debris during hurricanes. They meet strict building codes and provide real protection.
Decorative shutters enhance the look of your home but do not offer impact resistance or protection during storms.
Choosing storm rated shutters can affect your insurance premiums. Many insurance companies offer discounts for homes equipped with certified hurricane protection, even if you don’t have impact windows.
Why Licensed Installation Matters for Hurricane Protection in Santa Rosa Beach Florida
Installing storm rated shutters requires knowledge of local building codes and proper techniques to ensure they perform during a storm. For hurricane protection in Santa Rosa Beach Florida, The Chill Penguin is a licensed installer with experience in hurricane protection.
Only licensed installers can guarantee that shutters meet safety standards.
Improper installation can lead to failure during a storm, risking damage and voiding insurance benefits.
Planning Ahead: Don’t Wait for a Storm
Many homeowners wait until a hurricane is approaching to order shutters. This leads to long lead times from manufacturers and delays in installation.
Manufacturers often have weeks of backlog during hurricane season.
Installation requires time to measure, order, and fit shutters correctly.
Waiting too long can leave your home vulnerable when storms arrive.
Start your hurricane protection planning early to avoid last-minute stress and ensure your home is ready.
Insurance Savings with Proper Hurricane Protection
Insurance companies recognize the value of storm rated shutters. Installing the right protection can lead to:
Lower premiums due to reduced risk of damage.
Potential eligibility for credits without needing full impact windows.
Peace of mind knowing your home is safeguarded.
Check with your insurance provider about discounts available in Santa Rosa Beach for certified hurricane shutters.
Where to Learn More and Get Started
For detailed information on hurricane protection options in Santa Rosa Beach, visit Hurricane Protection. The Chill Penguin team can guide you through selecting the right shutters, explain insurance benefits, and provide licensed installation services.
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