Polycarbonate shutters are a type of commercial hurricane shutter designed to protect buildings from the destructive forces of hurricanes. These shutters are made from a durable, lightweight material known as polycarbonate, which is renowned for its strength and resilience. This article provides an in-depth exploration of polycarbonate shutters, their features, benefits, installation process, maintenance, and more.
Understanding the importance and functionality of polycarbonate shutters is crucial for businesses located in hurricane-prone areas. These shutters not only provide protection against hurricanes but also offer a range of other benefits, making them an excellent investment for commercial properties.
Understanding Polycarbonate
Polycarbonate is a type of thermoplastic polymer that is incredibly durable, lightweight, and resistant to impact. It’s often used in applications where strength and transparency are required, such as in the manufacturing of bulletproof glass, eyewear, and, of course, hurricane shutters.
Polycarbonate is known for its ability to withstand extreme temperatures, making it an excellent choice for hurricane shutters. It’s also resistant to UV rays, which means it won’t yellow or degrade over time when exposed to sunlight. This makes polycarbonate shutters a long-lasting solution for hurricane protection.
Properties of Polycarbonate
Polycarbonate has several properties that make it an ideal material for hurricane shutters. One of these is its high impact resistance. Polycarbonate can withstand impacts many times greater than glass, making it incredibly durable and resistant to breakage.
Another key property of polycarbonate is its transparency. Despite its strength, polycarbonate is highly transparent, allowing for natural light to pass through while still providing protection. This makes polycarbonate shutters a popular choice for businesses that want to maintain a welcoming and bright atmosphere, even during a storm.
Types of Polycarbonate
There are several types of polycarbonate used in the manufacturing of hurricane shutters. These include solid polycarbonate, multiwall polycarbonate, and corrugated polycarbonate. Each type has its own set of characteristics and benefits, making them suitable for different applications.
Solid polycarbonate is the most durable type and is often used in applications where maximum strength is required. Multiwall polycarbonate, on the other hand, is lighter and more flexible, making it ideal for larger installations. Corrugated polycarbonate is the most cost-effective option and is often used in applications where budget is a primary concern.
Features of Polycarbonate Shutters
Polycarbonate shutters come with a range of features that make them an excellent choice for commercial hurricane protection. These features include their strength and durability, their transparency, their ease of installation, and their low maintenance requirements.
One of the key features of polycarbonate shutters is their strength. These shutters are designed to withstand the high winds and flying debris that come with hurricanes, providing reliable protection for your business. They’re also resistant to impacts, making them a great choice for businesses located in areas prone to vandalism or break-ins.
Transparency and Aesthetics
Unlike other types of hurricane shutters, polycarbonate shutters are transparent. This means that they allow natural light to pass through, maintaining a bright and welcoming atmosphere in your business even during a storm. This transparency also means that polycarbonate shutters have a minimal impact on the aesthetics of your building, making them a popular choice for businesses that want to maintain their curb appeal.
Polycarbonate shutters are also available in a range of styles and colors, allowing you to choose shutters that complement your building’s design. Whether you prefer a modern, sleek look or a more traditional style, you’ll be able to find polycarbonate shutters that meet your needs.
Installation and Maintenance
Polycarbonate shutters are relatively easy to install, making them a popular choice for businesses looking for a quick and efficient solution for hurricane protection. These shutters can be installed on virtually any type of building, regardless of its size or shape.
In terms of maintenance, polycarbonate shutters require very little. They’re resistant to rust, corrosion, and UV damage, which means they won’t require frequent repainting or replacement. To keep your shutters in good condition, all you’ll need to do is clean them regularly to remove any dirt or debris.
Benefits of Polycarbonate Shutters
There are numerous benefits to choosing polycarbonate shutters for your commercial property. These benefits include enhanced protection, cost-effectiveness, increased property value, and more.
One of the main benefits of polycarbonate shutters is their ability to provide enhanced protection against hurricanes. These shutters are designed to withstand the high winds and flying debris that come with hurricanes, helping to prevent damage to your property and ensuring the safety of your employees and customers.
Cost-Effectiveness
Polycarbonate shutters are a cost-effective solution for hurricane protection. While they may be more expensive upfront than other types of shutters, they offer significant long-term savings. Their durability and low maintenance requirements mean that they won’t require frequent replacement or repair, saving you money in the long run.
Additionally, installing polycarbonate shutters can help to reduce your insurance premiums. Many insurance companies offer discounts to businesses that take steps to mitigate the risk of hurricane damage, and installing hurricane shutters is one of the most effective ways to do this.
Increased Property Value
Installing polycarbonate shutters can also help to increase the value of your property. These shutters are a desirable feature for potential buyers, as they provide enhanced protection against hurricanes and other severe weather events.
Furthermore, polycarbonate shutters can improve the aesthetics of your building. Their sleek, modern design can enhance the overall look of your property, making it more appealing to potential buyers.
Conclusion
Polycarbonate shutters are an excellent choice for commercial properties located in hurricane-prone areas. They offer enhanced protection against hurricanes, are cost-effective, and can increase the value of your property. With their range of features and benefits, polycarbonate shutters are a smart investment for any business.
Whether you’re a business owner looking to protect your property from hurricanes, or a contractor looking for a reliable and durable solution for your clients, polycarbonate shutters are a great option. With their strength, transparency, and ease of installation, they offer a comprehensive solution for hurricane protection.