In the realm of commercial hurricane shutters, aluminum shutters stand as a popular and effective choice. This article delves into the world of aluminum shutters, their structure, functionality, benefits, and installation process. We will also explore the role they play in protecting commercial properties from the devastating effects of hurricanes.
Aluminum shutters, as the name suggests, are made from aluminum – a lightweight, yet strong material. They are designed to protect windows and doors from the destructive forces of hurricanes, including high winds, heavy rain, and flying debris. These shutters are not only functional but also add an aesthetic appeal to the commercial property.
Understanding Aluminum Shutters
Aluminum shutters are a type of hurricane shutter made from aluminum, a metal known for its strength and durability. They are designed to be installed over windows and doors to provide protection against the destructive forces of a hurricane. The shutters are typically made up of several aluminum slats that are connected together to form a solid barrier.
These shutters are designed to be easy to operate, with most models offering manual operation, while others may be equipped with a motor for automatic operation. They can be rolled up or down as needed, providing flexibility in their use. When not in use, they can be rolled up and stored in an enclosed box, making them a discreet addition to the building’s exterior.
Types of Aluminum Shutters
There are several types of aluminum shutters available, each offering unique features and benefits. The most common types include roll-down shutters, accordion shutters, and Bahama shutters.
Roll-down shutters are made up of interlocking aluminum slats that roll up into a box when not in use. They offer excellent protection and are easy to operate, either manually or with a motor. Accordion shutters are made up of interlocking aluminum panels that fold together like an accordion when not in use. They are typically installed on a track and can be easily pulled closed and locked in place. Bahama shutters are hinged at the top and can be propped open at an angle to provide shade, or closed and secured for storm protection.
Material and Construction
Aluminum shutters are made from high-quality aluminum, a material known for its strength and durability. The aluminum used in these shutters is typically a high-grade, corrosion-resistant variety that can withstand the harsh conditions of a hurricane.
The construction of these shutters involves the use of multiple aluminum slats or panels that are interconnected. The connections between the slats or panels are designed to be strong and secure, ensuring that the shutter can withstand high winds and flying debris. The shutters are also designed to be lightweight, making them easy to operate and install.
Benefits of Aluminum Shutters
Aluminum shutters offer several benefits that make them an excellent choice for commercial hurricane protection. These benefits include their strength and durability, ease of operation, and aesthetic appeal.
Aluminum is a strong and durable material that can withstand the high winds and flying debris associated with hurricanes. This makes aluminum shutters an effective barrier against the destructive forces of these storms. Additionally, aluminum is resistant to corrosion, ensuring that the shutters will remain in good condition even in harsh weather conditions.
Strength and Durability
One of the main benefits of aluminum shutters is their strength and durability. Aluminum is a strong material that can withstand high winds and flying debris, making it an effective barrier against the destructive forces of a hurricane. This strength and durability make aluminum shutters a long-lasting investment for commercial properties.
Furthermore, aluminum is resistant to corrosion, which is an important feature for shutters that will be exposed to the elements. This means that aluminum shutters will not rust or deteriorate over time, ensuring that they will continue to provide effective protection for many years.
Ease of Operation
Another benefit of aluminum shutters is their ease of operation. Most aluminum shutters are designed to be easy to operate, with many models offering manual operation or motorized operation for added convenience. This ease of operation allows for quick and efficient preparation in the event of a storm.
Additionally, when not in use, aluminum shutters can be easily stored. Roll-down shutters, for example, can be rolled up into a box, while accordion shutters can be folded together. This makes aluminum shutters a convenient and practical choice for commercial hurricane protection.
Installation of Aluminum Shutters
The installation process for aluminum shutters involves several steps, including measuring the windows or doors, preparing the area, installing the shutters, and testing their operation. It is recommended that this process be carried out by a professional to ensure that the shutters are installed correctly and safely.
Measuring the windows or doors is the first step in the installation process. This involves taking accurate measurements of the height and width of each window or door that will be protected by the shutters. These measurements are then used to determine the size of the shutters needed.
Preparing the Area
Once the measurements have been taken, the next step is to prepare the area for installation. This involves cleaning the area and removing any obstacles that may interfere with the installation process. In some cases, it may also involve making minor repairs to the building’s exterior to ensure that the shutters can be installed securely.
After the area has been prepared, the shutters can be installed. This involves attaching the shutters to the building’s exterior using the appropriate hardware. The shutters must be installed securely to ensure that they can withstand the high winds and flying debris of a hurricane.
Testing the Operation
Once the shutters have been installed, the final step is to test their operation. This involves rolling the shutters up and down or opening and closing them to ensure that they operate smoothly. Any issues with the operation of the shutters should be addressed immediately to ensure that they are ready for use in the event of a storm.
In conclusion, aluminum shutters are a popular and effective choice for commercial hurricane protection. They offer strength and durability, ease of operation, and aesthetic appeal, making them an excellent investment for any commercial property located in a hurricane-prone area.