Living on the First Coast comes with the beauty of the beach and the reality of hurricane season. Protecting your home means being proactive, especially when it comes to your windows and doors. Storm shutters aren’t just about preventing broken glass—they help reduce structural damage, keep out wind-driven rain, and in many cases, lower your insurance premiums. If you own a home in Jacksonville, St. Augustine, or anywhere along the Northeast Florida coast, understanding your shutter options is a smart move.
At First Coast Contracting, we help homeowners make the right call when it comes to storm protection, including evaluating and installing the best shutter solutions for their property.
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Accordion Shutters
Accordion shutters are a popular choice for coastal homes thanks to their practicality and durability. These shutters are permanently mounted beside windows and doors and unfold along a track. When a storm is approaching, they slide closed and lock in place.
Made from metal or polycarbonate materials, accordion shutters provide strong impact resistance. They’re ideal for larger windows, sliding glass doors, and even upper-story openings where quick deployment matters. Once the storm passes, they can be unlocked and pushed back into a compact position, making them one of the easier options to manage.
A major advantage of accordion shutters is that they can be locked from the inside or outside, offering both storm protection and an added layer of security against break-ins. They also meet Florida Building Code standards for impact resistance when properly installed.
Roll-Down Shutters
Roll-down shutters are another permanent option that provides excellent protection, but with even greater convenience. These are typically made from high-strength aluminum and are housed in a box above the window or door. At the push of a button (or by hand crank for manual models), the shutter rolls down and locks into place.
For homeowners who want a clean look and minimal hassle, roll-downs are often the preferred solution. They’re especially useful for second-story openings or vacation homes that aren’t occupied year-round. Automatic motorized systems with battery backups can even be programmed to deploy during a power outage or remote-triggered storm alert.
The trade-off is cost. Roll-down shutters tend to be more expensive due to the materials, housing, and optional motorization, but the ease of use and clean design make them worth it for many Florida homeowners.
Bahama Shutters
Bahama shutters offer storm protection with a tropical aesthetic. These louvered shutters are permanently mounted above the window and propped open at an angle. When a storm is imminent, the shutter can be lowered and secured against the window frame.
Made from aluminum or composite materials, Bahama shutters offer moderate storm protection. They’re best suited for single-story homes or less vulnerable parts of the structure. Their angled position also helps reduce solar heat gain, acting as a form of passive cooling in the hotter months.
However, not all Bahama shutters meet impact-rating requirements unless specifically engineered to do so. Homeowners need to confirm with their contractor or supplier whether the product is rated for hurricane-force winds and projectile impact, especially if using them as a primary defense.
Colonial Shutters
Colonial shutters blend curb appeal with functionality. Hinged on either side of a window, these shutters close together in the center and latch shut before a storm. When not in use, they enhance the home’s look with a traditional or coastal design.
Most colonial shutters are made from powder-coated aluminum, though fiberglass and composite options are available. Like Bahama shutters, their storm performance depends on whether they’re designed to meet impact-resistant standards. When properly rated and installed, they can hold up against hurricane-force winds and debris.
One drawback is that they need to be manually secured from the outside. This can be a challenge for second-floor windows unless paired with a ladder or integrated ladder system. Still, many homeowners appreciate the aesthetic appeal they bring.
Storm Panels
Storm panels are one of the most budget-friendly shutter options and offer strong protection when properly anchored. These removable panels are made from corrugated aluminum, steel, or polycarbonate. They are installed on pre-mounted tracks or bolts around openings.
The biggest advantage is cost and strength. Panels can meet the most stringent building codes, but only when installed correctly before the storm arrives. They require time and effort to deploy and remove, which can be a burden for older homeowners or anyone with mobility concerns.
Storage is another consideration. Each panel needs to be labeled and stored somewhere dry and accessible between seasons. Still, if you’re looking for solid protection without the cost of permanent fixtures, panels are a practical solution.
Impact-Resistant Windows vs. Storm Shutters
Many homeowners debate whether to install shutters or invest in impact-resistant windows. These laminated glass windows are engineered to withstand both high winds and flying debris. They don’t require deployment, and they provide noise reduction, UV protection, and improved energy efficiency year-round.
However, they come at a higher cost. In most cases, impact windows are a long-term investment. They do not negate the benefits of shutters but can be combined with them for layered protection. For instance, a home may have impact windows on the second floor and shutters on the ground floor to balance cost and protection.
Some insurance providers also offer additional discounts when impact-resistant windows are installed throughout the home. Before making the decision, it’s wise to consult with a licensed contractor and your insurance agent.
Code Compliance and Insurance Savings
Regardless of which shutter type you choose, all installations should comply with Florida Building Code and local wind zone requirements. Improperly installed shutters can fail during a storm, even if the product itself is rated for hurricane impact.
Insurance discounts are often tied to whether your home has “opening protection” for all glazed openings. This means every window and door must be covered with approved storm-rated shutters or impact-resistant glass. A certified wind mitigation inspection can verify this and help lower your premiums.
Making the Right Choice for Your Home
The best storm shutter for your home depends on several factors: your budget, home design, physical accessibility, and how often you’re around during storm season. Permanent options like roll-down or accordion shutters make sense for homeowners who want a low-maintenance solution. Removable options like panels work well for those on a tighter budget who don’t mind the extra labor.
Whatever route you choose, investing in the right storm shutter system helps protect your home, your belongings, and your peace of mind. With hurricane seasons becoming less predictable, having a reliable storm protection plan in place isn’t just smart—it’s essential.
