Aluminum Bahama Shutters: An Option for Florida Homes

Are you a Florida homeowner considering Bahama shutters for your home? With so many options and suppliers it is easy to get confused about which ones to buy. But if you live in Southwest Florida you should opt for aluminum Bahama Shutters. Why? Keep reading because that is what we will cover in this guide.

Aluminum Bahama shutters vs Vinyl or Wood

You might be wondering what the difference is between aluminum Bahama shutters and ones made from vinyl or wood.

After all, the aluminum ones look like other Bahama/Bermuda shutter. But what makes the aluminum ones special is that they are constructed from (you guessed it) aluminum rather than vinyl or wood.

What’s the difference and why does it matter? Keep reading to find out why they are better, especially if you live in Florida.

Vinyl / wood

Wood and vinyl shutters are commonly used in geographic areas where hurricanes or extreme weather are not a concern.

Wood or vinyl Bahama style shutters are what are referred to as “decorative shutters”. Their primary intention is to make your home look nice. They do provide some benefits, such as shade. But at their heart they are intended solely for decorative purposes.

When it comes to providing storm protection during a dangerous hurricane wood or vinyl shutters provide little to nothing at all.

Because of this they are not an ideal fit for homes in hurricane prone areas like Florida.

In addition, they are also not well suited to withstand the climate of our area. Southwest Florida has extreme sun/heat and high levels of rain and moisture. These conditions can cause havoc on vinyl and wood shutters. For example, they may swell, deform, fade, etc. over time.

Aluminum

Your other option for Bahama shutters is aluminum.

What makes aluminum shutters different vs wood or vinyl?

Great question.

First, aluminum Bahama hurricane shutter systems are engineered specifically for storm protection purposes.

What does that mean?

Permanent hurricane shutters are able to protect your vulnerable glass windows from hurricane force winds and flying debris. In fact, they are rated to withstand up to a category 5 hurricane. And they meet the most current Florida Building Code requirements.

In other words, aluminum shutters offer incredible hurricane window protection for your family and your home. And this is critical when you live in an area prone to major hurricanes, such as Fort Myers/Cape Coral FL (SWFL).

Second, shutters made from aluminum are best suited for the climate and conditions of Southwest Florida. They are able to withstand Florida’s heat, sun and moisture/humidity. This means they won’t warp, crack or rot like vinyl or wood versions have the potential to do.

What is aluminum?

Aluminum is a type of lightweight metal. However, it is not typically used in its pure form. When used for products, such as shutters, it is combined with other elements to form a stronger material that is called an aluminum alloy. Aluminum alloys are lightweight, impact resistant, and naturally resistant to corrosion.

The material can be extruded or shaped into a wide range of shapes without causing damage.

And it can be powder coated to form a long-lasting finish in a wide range of colors.

Key Takeaway

If you live in an area prone to hurricanes, such as Southwest Florida, then aluminum Bahama shutters are a better choice vs vinyl or wood versions.

Yes, the vinyl and wood versions of these shutters offer shade and aesthetics. But they do little to protect your home when a hurricane or severe storm barrels through.

Aluminum versions, on the other hand, look just as good and offer just as much shade. But they also offer critical protection for your Florida home during hurricane season. In turn, going with aluminum is the optimal choice.

Interested in Aluminum Bahama Shutters?

Are you interested in Bahama shutters or other hurricane protection for your home? If you have questions or want to explore your options then trust the shutter pros at Eurex Shutters. Our company has been providing the best hurricane protection products and service to SWFL since 1986. Find out why we have over 25,000 satisfied customers.