Storm Shutters

2/20/2020 (Permalink)

This winter in Southern California has been one for the books. Between sporadic bouts of rain, random days of 80 degree weather, and gusts of wind hitting 80 miles per hour, it seems California is unsure of what season it is. While SERVPRO of Chino / Chino Hills is fully prepared to help homeowners tackle any type of storm loss, there are a few things that we recommend for avoiding potential issues. One of these includes the installation of storm shutters. Here are three factors to consider when shopping around.

1. Type

Decisions, decisions! Storm shutters come in a variety of flavors, and there are different advantages for each one. The more permanent version is attached to your home and sits on the side or above a window opening. This type can swing over or slide down in the event of wind or any other type of storm conditions, providing protection to the window. Temporary shutters are also an excellent and appealing option for those that do not wish to make permanent alterations to their home. This type of panel is storm-resistant but rather than being permanently affixed to a structure, they can be stored away during the more dry seasons (the other 340 days of the year). Storm shutters can greatly alter the appearance of a home and while some homeowners are okay with that, others prefer the ability to remove them. Variety, after all, is the spice of life.

2. Material

Did you know shutters came in different types of materials? Many people think of the more traditional slatted wood type when they think of residential shutters. While these are probably the most common in Southern California, they are not the only type. Areas that often experience high winds or heavy rains may instead use a more heavy-duty metal shutter. These are particularly useful in areas that see hurricanes and monsoons. Southern California homes are better suited for wood or even lightweight cloth shutters, which can also be used to reduce sunlight or provide a degree of privacy.

3. Position

As I mentioned earlier in this article, shutters can hang in different positions or orientations. Folding shutters or accordion style units may swing inward from the sides, while others may sit over the window and swing or slide down. The style you end up with will depend on both preference and the severity of weather in your given area.

Shutters are awesome. They work well and can be an excellent addition to your homes aesthetic. Their functionality has led them to remain mostly unchanged for decades. When considering protection for your windows, take into account what other aspects the shutters will alter as well as what makes sense for your particular situation.

While we hope to never have to meet you in the event of storm damage, SERVPRO of Chino / Chino Hills is here for all of your restoration needs, 24/7, 365 days a year.