The phrase Bahama Shutters probably makes you think of the beautiful beaches, people and architecture of the Caribbean islands. Bahama hurricane shutters help bring those happy thoughts to your home while also offering many benefits. This style of exterior shutter is a favorite among designers, home owners and business owners because of their beauty, functionality and many benefits. In Southwest Florida and South Florida it is also a popular style of hurricane shutter for the same reasons.
In this article we talk about what exactly are Bahama shutters and why they are so beneficial for your Southwest Florida home.
What are Bahama Hurricane Shutters?
Bahama shutters are a style of permanent hurricane shutters. They resemble shutters frequently seen in the Caribbean islands of Bermuda, the Bahamas, etc.. Because of this they are also frequently referred to as Bermuda shutters or Caribbean shutters.
These shutters stay in a fixed, semi-open position over your window (see the images to get a better idea of what the open position looks like). This is similar to window awnings. This position helps them provide shade from the hot sun, reducing cooling bills and reducing UV rays.
Their looks, protection and style are why people in Fort Myers and Southwest Florida choose them, even though they come at a premium cost vs. some other types of window shutters.
Are all Bahama shutters hurricane resistant?
No. If you are looking for impact resistant, hurricane shutters then you need to make sure you buy impact shutters. They do come in both a purely decorative as well as hurricane impact rated versions.
Purely decorative versions achieve aesthetic goals. But they won’t help as much for protecting your home from severe weather, such as hurricanes and tropical storms. They are constructed from materials such as vinyl, wood or plastic.
Bahama hurricane shutters, such as Eurex Shutters PTX Bahama Shutters, are made from impact resistant aluminum. They are engineered to be hurricane rated, and they are able to withstand up to a category 5 hurricane. These offer high hurricane protection, and they will protect your family as well as your home or office.
What are the benefits of Bahama Hurricane Shutters?
Bahama hurricane shutters are very popular in Southwest Florida. This is because they are not just beautiful, but also because they offer many benefits. Some of these benefits are below.
PRO: Added protection for your home and family
Bahama style aluminum hurricane shutters are beautiful, but they also offer some serious hurricane protection. They are made from tough aluminum and designed to protect your property even during a category 5 hurricane.
So these are a good choice if you want to make your home look attractive while also protecting it from the most severe weather.
PRO: Extremely easy to open and close
Compared to other types of hurricane shutters Bahama style hurricane shutters are really easy to operate. You don’t have to install them on your home like storm panels before each storm. You can easily close and lock them from inside or outside your home before the storm hits.
Opening and closing them is a breeze. They pop out and lock into place because of their telescoping arms. Opening them is as simple as pushing them into position.
They are a great option if you are looking for an easy to use hurricane shutter.
PRO: They add an appealing look and style to your property
Some types of hurricane shutters are not very appealing. But the Bahama style shutter looks really good. This is one of the biggest reasons it is so popular in Southwest Florida and other areas, especially for those looking to add style to their home or specifically wanting to achieve the Caribbean style.
Installing them can instantly transform your home or office completely.
If you decide to buy custom they can be customized to match your home and meet your preferences. For example, we offer our aluminum Bahama shutters in a wide variety of colors to match your home’s style. We also custom measure, build and professionally install them to ensure a clean, smooth fit.
In turn, once installed they can really enhance the look of your home vs. detracting from it. This is a huge benefit for those who are worried about curb appeal.
PRO: Provide shade and helps with cooling
In addition Bahama hurricane shutters are great for providing all day shade from the Southwest Florida sun while allowing breeze in. They sit in a semi-open position, which means they help block and redirect light that would otherwise enter your home.
Other FAQ About Bahama Shutters
There is no difference. The names are generally used interchangeably. You can also refer to them as Caribbean shutters.
$33 – $50+/ft2. But the actual cost will depend on material costs as well as your specific project. It is best to get an estimate to get an exact cost. Check out our article: What is the Cost of Bahama Shutters.
The main purpose of Bermuda shutters is storm protection. But they do serve multiple purposes. This particular type of shutters are both decorative and functional. In terms of decorative appeal, they look great and add style to your home. In terms of function they have several. Fist is protecting your home from severe weather. Second, is providing shade and UV control. Lastly, they provide privacy by reducing visibility into your home from the outside.
Yes, but because of their position over the window your visibility will be reduced vs a clear, glass window. Your ability to see through Bahama shutters will also be effected by what position you have your Bermuda shutters in (half open, closed, etc.).
Conclusion
Bahama shutters are a style of permanently attached, exterior shutter. They offer many benefits in addition to their beauty and style. These benefits include protection from severe weather (for the hurricane shutter version), easy operation, shade/cooling for your home, and more.
If you are looking for Bahama shutters for your home in Fort Myers, Naples, Cape Coral or anywhere else in Southwest Florida we would love to help. Call us at 239-369-8600 or click below to fill out a quick form for a complimentary consultation and estimate.
