Are Hurricane Shutters Worth It? Costs, Types and Impact Windows Compared

Yes, hurricane shutters are usually worth it if you live where hurricanes or strong tropical storms hit. When a window breaks in a storm, wind and rain rush in and can cause roof and interior damage that costs far more than the shutters. Most homeowners pay about $1,400 to $5,800 for shutters, depending on the type and how many windows they cover.

The right choice depends on your budget, how often storms hit your area, and whether you can close shutters yourself before a storm.

Hurricane shutter types and costs

Costs vary by city, window size, and installer. Get at least three quotes.

Why shutters matter

When a strong wind breaks a window, air pressure inside the house can build up quickly. That pressure can push up on the roof from inside and lead to much bigger damage. Keeping windows and doors covered helps keep the "envelope" of the house sealed.

Shutters also help protect against:

• Flying debris like branches and patio furniture
• Rain driven sideways into the house
• Break-ins when the house is empty

Shutters vs impact windows

Some homeowners mix them: impact windows on hard-to-reach upper floors, and shutters on the rest.

Are they worth it for you?

Shutters are usually worth it if:

• You live in a coastal or hurricane-prone state
• Your windows are not impact-rated
• Your insurer offers a discount for storm protection
• You plan to stay in the home for several years

They may not be worth it if:

• You live far inland where hurricanes rarely reach
• Your home already has impact windows
• Local rules or your HOA limit what you can install

Insurance and permits

• Insurance discounts: In some states, especially Florida, a wind mitigation inspection documents your storm protection and can lower your premium. Ask your agent what counts.
• Permits: Many coastal towns require a permit for permanent shutters and impact windows, and products may need to meet local building codes.
• Product ratings: Look for shutters tested for your area's wind and impact standards, such as Florida Product Approval or Miami-Dade approval in South Florida.

Tips before hurricane season

• Test your shutters at the start of the season, and oil tracks and locks.
• Label storm panels by window so they go up quickly.
• Store hardware like bolts and wing nuts in a labeled bag.
• Trim trees near the house to reduce flying debris. Our calculator for tree trimming prices gives an estimate.
• Check your roof, since wind can lift damaged shingles. See signs your roof needs repair.
• Prepare for outages. Our guide on what to do in a power outage covers food, generators, and emergency kits.

Cost example for a typical home

Here is a simple example to show how costs add up. Say a home has 12 windows, each about 15 square feet (about 3 by 5 feet), for a total of 180 square feet.

Your price will depend on window sizes, your city, labor rates, permits, and whether you also protect doors and sliding glass doors. This example is only a guide, so always get written quotes.

Pros and cons of each shutter type

Storm panels

• Pros: Lowest cost, very strong when installed right, easy to store flat.
• Cons: Heavy and slow to put up, sharp edges, need a ladder for upper windows, and you must be home to install them.

Accordion shutters

• Pros: Always attached to the house, close in minutes, one person can do it.
• Cons: Visible tracks on the outside, locks and wheels need cleaning, and some people do not like the look.

Roll-down shutters

• Pros: Easiest to use, some close with a button or remote, great for upper floors, also help with privacy, heat, and noise.
• Cons: Highest cost of the shutter options, motors need power or a manual backup, and the housing box sits above the window.

Colonial and Bahama shutters

• Pros: Add curb appeal, Bahama styles give shade year-round.
• Cons: Often cost more than accordion shutters, and some styles offer less coverage.

How long do hurricane shutters last?

With good care, many aluminum and steel shutters last 15 to 30 years. Roll-down motors often need service or replacement after about 10 to 15 years. Salt air near the ocean wears out metal parts faster, so rinse shutters with fresh water after storms and a few times a year.

Hurricane season checklist

In the Atlantic, hurricane season runs from June 1 to November 30 each year. Before and during the season:

• Test every shutter and replace missing bolts, clips, or wing nuts.
• Clean tracks and spray moving parts with a silicone lubricant.
• Charge or test the battery backup on motorized shutters.
• Take photos of your windows and shutters for insurance records.
• Keep your wind mitigation paperwork in a safe place.
• Decide who will close the shutters if you are away.

Mistakes to avoid

• Waiting until a storm is coming. Installers are booked up, and stores sell out of panels fast.
• Using plywood that does not fit. Thin or loose plywood may not hold. If you use plywood, cut and label it ahead of time and use proper anchors.
• Taping windows. Tape does not stop glass from breaking and can make larger, more dangerous shards.
• Leaving doors and garage doors unprotected. A failed garage door can let wind into the house just like a broken window.
• Skipping permits. Unpermitted shutters may not count for insurance discounts.

Florida homeowners: the My Safe Florida Home grant

If you live in Florida, the state may help pay for shutters or impact windows through the My Safe Florida Home program. It works in two steps:

1. A free wind mitigation inspection. A state inspector checks your home and lists upgrades that would reduce storm damage.
2. A matching grant. For approved work, the state pays $2 for every $1 you spend, up to $10,000. Opening protection, like hurricane shutters, impact windows, and impact doors, can qualify.

Key rules include:

• The home must be a single-family home built before January 1, 2008.
• The insured value must be $700,000 or less.
• Money is limited and given out first come, first served, so apply early.

Check the official program site for current dates and rules before you hire a contractor. The free inspection report can also help you get a lower insurance premium.

How long does it take to put shutters up?

This matters when a storm is a day or two away.

If you choose panels, label each one for its window and practice once before the season starts.

The bottom line

Hurricane shutters are worth it for most homes in hurricane-prone areas. Storm panels are the cheapest, accordion shutters give good value, and roll-down shutters are the easiest to use. Impact windows cost more but protect all the time without any setup. Check local permit rules, ask your insurer about discounts, and get several quotes before you decide.