We asked our preferred contractor about installing Florida storm shutters. Here are their expert insights:
PRE-LABEL STORM SHUTTERS
One of the biggest mistakes many Florida homeowners make prior to a major storm is failing to pre-label storm shutters. As a result, they end up with a massive pile of storm shutters sitting in their garage, and when a storm does hit, they are left rushing to determine where each storm shutter is supposed to go… putting family and home in danger.
Storm shutters typically include a marked number on them. The easiest way to organize storm shutters is to take a plastic label and place one on each window of the house, matching them up to the corresponding shutter. That way, you can quickly and easily install your shutters when the time comes. Even better? You will not need a diagram.
WHAT YOU NEED TO INSTALL STORM SHUTTERS
To properly install storm shutters, you will need the following:
Wing-Nut Driver
A wing-nut driver mounts to either an electric screwdriver or a power drill. It significantly simplifies the process of clamping down the wing nuts when installing storm shutters. Stock up now! When a hurricane is approaching, you will not be able to find wing-nut drivers in stores.
Protective Gloves
Wear thick, protective gloves while installing storm shutters to avoid the risk of cutting your hands. Keep a backup pair on hand in case a glove rips or a helper forgets their pair at home.
Help From Others
Recruit your neighbors and friends to help install storm shutters. This will make installation easier and faster. At the beginning of storm season, form a small group in your neighborhood who commit to helping each other install shutters, along with any elderly or disabled residents in need of assistance.
WHAT ARE THE BEST TYPES OF STORM SHUTTERS?
Aluminum shutters are lightweight and relatively easy to install. Also, mesh screens are a newer product that can be purchased in lieu of shutters and installed on certain areas of your home, like patio doors.
A Word to the Wise: Avoid metal storm shutters. They are extremely heavy and very difficult to install.