If you are reading this article you are probably a home or business owner in Fort Myers or elsewhere in Southwest Florida. You might own a property without adequate storm protection. You realize that living in an area with severe weather means that you need to protect your family and investment. Or maybe you just want to improve your home. If you are considering storm shutters, but you’re not quite sure they are worth it then this article is definitely for you. We provide 8 powerful benefits of installing storm shutters in Southwest Florida. At the end of the article we will provide a resource that details different pricing and styles so be sure to check that out.
If you are considering hurricane glass then you may also like our guide on Hurricane Windows vs. Storm Shutters.
Advantages of Installing Storm Shutters
It is true that hurricane shutters are an investment. So why should you install them? Below we list 8 benefits of storm shutters that we believe make them well worth the upfront cost.
1. Hurricane shutters protect your home, family and investment
1. Hurricane shutters protect your home, family and investmentAt their core storm shutters are installed to protect your Southwest Florida home or business. Shutters and impact resistant windows protect the vulnerable spots of your home (the openings). So they help prevent flying debris from breaking glass, which eliminates the need to repair broken windows and doors. By keeping glass intact they also prevent water and objects from entering your home. Water intrusion can lead to some nasty problems, such as mold, ruined carpets, rotted trim and drywall, etc.
Learn more about hurricane window protection.
2. Reduced risk of injury
Impact resistant shutters protect your home, which in turn helps to protect everyone in it. Shutters prevent broken glass caused by flying debris, which can result in cut hazards inside your property.They also prevent other objects from coming into your property. Flying objects, including debris and glass, if the window breaks, can obviously cause injuries if individuals are near the windows at the time. Even if no one is in the home when something happens injuries can happen during clean-up.
3. Storm shutters may increase your home’s value and make it more appealing to buyers
Most property buyers in Southwest Florida look for homes that already have adequate storm protection.
This is true for several reason. Fist, the protection provide buyers peace of mind. Second, they know that storm protection might be required by a Florida insurance company. Lastly, they don’t want to be the ones to pay for this expense so they focus their attention on homes that already have storm shutters installed.
If your home has storm protection it will definitely be attractive to potential buyers. They are something that make your home stand out as an upgrade over other houses. This is similar to things like granite countertops or nice floors.
4. Insurance savings and requirements
Unfortunately homeowner’s insurance coverage in Florida appears to be getting more stringent and more expensive. Currently, many insurance companies in Southwest Florida require storm shutters or impact glass (some form of protection) for homeowner’s coverage. Even if your insurance company does not currently require it you might see a wind mitigation discount if you install certain types of shutters.
According to an NBC News article, “those who live in wind-prone areas could see a 10-15% credit on their policy for wind protection upgrades.” It does depend on your insurance carrier and the specific type of protection you have installed.
Shutters protect your home against intruders while it is unattended.
5. Added security
In addition to protecting your home or business from severe weather impact shutters also protect against intruders. If you leave your home unattended for a portion of the year, or even if you evacuate, the shutters protect your home from intruders when you are gone.
Every type of storm shutter offers security protection, but some, such as roll down hurricane shutters are better as security shutters than others. Most shutter types have lock mechanisms, whether it is an actual lock, screws, or tracks that keep them in the closed position. This locks out and prevents intruders from easily entering your home when you are not there.
6. Shade/light-control
Some types of hurricane shutters offer more functionality and benefits than others. One of the best features is shade and light control. This is a great added benefit especially in Southwest Florida where the sun is so strong.
For example roll down shutters offer adjustable shade and light-control, which is even available with the touch of a button for electric models. Bahama Shutters are permanently installed impact shutters that offer shade and light-control due to their installed position on the window (and they look great in the process).
7. Curb-appeal
Adding curb-appeal to your Southwest Florida home or commercial building is always a good thing. It makes it more enjoyable for you and more attractive to others. In addition to protecting your property storm shutters can also make your home look better and/or even give it a unique style.
For instance, Bahama shutters help you achieve a Caribbean look. Colonial shutters help to add a touch of Southern charm. Both are a great way to make your property stand out and be more unique.
Other types of shutters make your home attractive to potential buyers because they are barely noticed. Options like accordion shutters protect your property without changing it’s look.
8. Peace of mind
Although storm shutters offer many beneficial features, functionalities and even cost savings, one of the most important benefits of installing storm shutters is peace of mind. Whether it is from storms or intruders, hurricane shutters offer you and your family peace of mind that your home or business is protected and secure.
Can you afford storm shutters?
The cost of storm shutters varies depending on the style, materials, and features you select. To discover the different types of storm shutters and how much each costs check out our guide on hurricane shutters cost.
Conclusion: The Benefits Of Installing Storm Shutters
We have covered 8 benefits of installing storm shutters on your Fort Myers or Southwest Florida home. And there are surely more.
If you are looking for storm shutters in Fort Myers, Cape Coral, Lehigh Acres, Naples/Marco Island, or anywhere in Southwest Florida we would love to work with you. We have been manufacturing and installing hurricane shutters and impact windows and doors for 35 years in Southwest Florida.
Call us at 239-369-8600 or fill out our quick contact form for an in-home consultation and estimate.
