Hurricane shutters are an integral part of any commercial building located in hurricane-prone areas. They provide essential protection against the destructive forces of hurricanes, including high-speed winds, heavy rainfall, and flying debris. Among the various types of hurricane shutters available in the market, accordion shutters stand out for their unique blend of functionality, durability, and cost-effectiveness. This article provides a comprehensive explanation of accordion shutters, their features, benefits, installation process, and maintenance requirements.
Accordion shutters are named for their design, which resembles the bellows of an accordion. They are made of interlocking vertical slats that fold together when not in use, and extend to cover the entire window or door during a hurricane. They are typically made of high-quality aluminum, which is both lightweight and resistant to corrosion, making them ideal for use in coastal areas where salt air can cause significant damage to other types of materials.
Features of Accordion Shutters
Accordion shutters are known for their robust features that make them a popular choice among commercial property owners. These features include their strength and durability, ease of use, and versatility. They are designed to withstand the high wind speeds and flying debris associated with hurricanes, providing excellent protection for windows and doors.
One of the key features of accordion shutters is their ease of use. They can be deployed quickly and easily, often with just the push of a button if they are motorized. This allows for rapid protection of a building as a storm approaches. Additionally, their compact design when folded makes them unobtrusive and easy to store when not in use.
Versatility of Accordion Shutters
Accordion shutters are highly versatile, making them suitable for a wide range of commercial buildings. They can be customized to fit any size or shape of window or door, making them an ideal choice for buildings with unique architectural features. They can also be installed on both new and existing buildings, providing flexibility for property owners.
Another aspect of their versatility is their aesthetic appeal. Accordion shutters are available in a variety of colors and finishes, allowing them to blend seamlessly with the exterior design of a building. This makes them a practical and attractive solution for hurricane protection.
Strength and Durability
Accordion shutters are built to last. They are made from high-quality aluminum, which is known for its strength and durability. This material is capable of withstanding the high wind speeds and flying debris associated with hurricanes, providing excellent protection for commercial properties.
The durability of accordion shutters is further enhanced by their design. The interlocking slats provide additional strength, while the use of stainless steel hardware prevents rust and corrosion. Additionally, many accordion shutters are coated with a protective finish to resist the damaging effects of salt air and UV radiation.
Benefits of Accordion Shutters
Accordion shutters offer numerous benefits to commercial property owners. These include enhanced protection against hurricanes, increased property value, and potential insurance discounts. They also provide additional benefits such as increased privacy and improved energy efficiency.
One of the primary benefits of accordion shutters is their ability to provide superior protection against hurricanes. By covering windows and doors, they prevent wind, rain, and debris from causing damage to the interior of a building. This can save property owners significant repair costs following a hurricane.
Increased Property Value
Installing accordion shutters can increase the value of a commercial property. They are a desirable feature for potential buyers, as they provide peace of mind in the event of a hurricane. They also enhance the exterior appearance of a building, which can contribute to its overall curb appeal.
Furthermore, accordion shutters can lead to potential insurance discounts. Many insurance companies offer discounts on premiums for properties equipped with approved hurricane protection measures. Therefore, investing in accordion shutters can result in significant savings in the long run.
Additional Benefits
Accordion shutters also provide additional benefits such as increased privacy and improved energy efficiency. When closed, they prevent outsiders from seeing into a building, enhancing privacy. They also block out sunlight, which can help to reduce cooling costs during the hot summer months.
Moreover, accordion shutters can also provide a level of noise reduction. When closed, they can help to block out external noise, creating a quieter interior environment. This can be particularly beneficial for commercial properties located in busy, noisy areas.
Installation of Accordion Shutters
The installation of accordion shutters involves several steps and requires professional expertise. The process begins with the measurement of the windows and doors to be protected. The shutters are then custom-made to fit these dimensions. Once the shutters are ready, they are installed on the exterior of the building using a track system.
The shutters are typically installed on a top and bottom track, which allows them to slide open and closed. The tracks are securely attached to the building using screws or bolts. Once the tracks are in place, the shutters are inserted into the tracks and secured with locks or latches.
Professional Installation
Professional installation is recommended for accordion shutters. This ensures that the shutters are installed correctly and securely, providing maximum protection during a hurricane. Professionals have the necessary tools and expertise to handle the installation process efficiently and safely.
Furthermore, professional installation can also provide peace of mind. Knowing that the shutters have been installed correctly can give property owners confidence in their ability to protect their building during a hurricane. Many professional installation companies also offer warranties on their work, providing additional assurance of the quality of the installation.
Maintenance of Accordion Shutters
Like any other type of hurricane protection, accordion shutters require regular maintenance to ensure their effectiveness. This includes cleaning, lubricating, and inspecting the shutters on a regular basis. Proper maintenance can extend the lifespan of the shutters and ensure they provide reliable protection when needed.
Cleaning accordion shutters involves removing any dirt or debris from the slats and tracks. This can be done using a soft brush and mild detergent. The shutters should then be rinsed with clean water and allowed to dry. Lubricating the tracks and locks can help to ensure smooth operation of the shutters. This can be done using a silicone-based lubricant.
Regular Inspection
Regular inspection of accordion shutters is also important. This involves checking the shutters for any signs of damage or wear. Any damaged or worn parts should be replaced promptly to ensure the shutters continue to provide effective protection.
Inspection should also include checking the tracks and locks for any signs of rust or corrosion. If any is found, it should be treated promptly to prevent further damage. The shutters should also be tested regularly to ensure they open and close smoothly.
Professional Maintenance
While some maintenance tasks can be performed by the property owner, it is recommended to have the shutters professionally maintained at least once a year. Professional maintenance includes a thorough inspection and cleaning of the shutters, as well as any necessary repairs or replacements.
Professional maintenance can help to identify and address any potential issues before they become serious problems. It can also ensure that the shutters continue to provide reliable protection during a hurricane. Many professional maintenance companies also offer service contracts, which can provide ongoing maintenance and peace of mind for property owners.
Conclusion
Accordion shutters are a valuable investment for any commercial property located in a hurricane-prone area. They provide robust protection against the destructive forces of hurricanes, while also offering numerous other benefits such as increased property value, potential insurance discounts, and improved privacy and energy efficiency. With proper installation and regular maintenance, accordion shutters can provide reliable, long-lasting protection for commercial properties.
While the initial cost of accordion shutters may be higher than other types of hurricane protection, their durability and low maintenance requirements make them a cost-effective solution in the long run. Furthermore, the peace of mind they provide in the face of a potential hurricane is priceless. Therefore, for commercial property owners in hurricane-prone areas, investing in accordion shutters is a wise and prudent decision.