Rolldown shutters, also known as rolldown hurricane shutters, are a type of protective barrier installed on the exterior of a building to protect windows and doors from the destructive forces of hurricanes and other severe weather events. These shutters are typically made of high-strength materials such as aluminum or steel and are designed to roll down from a box installed above the window or door, providing a solid barrier against wind, rain, and flying debris.
As a critical component of a building’s protective measures against severe weather, understanding the design, function, and installation of rolldown hurricane shutters is essential for homeowners, builders, and architects alike. This glossary article aims to provide a comprehensive overview of rolldown hurricane shutters, covering everything from their construction and operation to their benefits and installation process.
Construction and Design of Rolldown Shutters
Rolldown shutters are typically constructed from high-strength materials such as aluminum or steel to ensure maximum durability and resistance against severe weather conditions. The shutters are made up of interlocking slats, which are designed to roll up and down along vertical tracks on either side of the window or door. When rolled up, the shutters are stored in a box, known as a housing unit, which is installed above the window or door.
The design of rolldown shutters is such that they provide a solid barrier when rolled down, effectively protecting the window or door from wind, rain, and flying debris. The interlocking slats are designed to withstand high wind pressures, while the housing unit and tracks are designed to ensure smooth operation and to prevent the shutters from being blown off during a storm.
Materials Used in Construction
The choice of material for the construction of rolldown shutters is crucial in determining their durability and effectiveness. Aluminum is a popular choice due to its strength, lightweight nature, and resistance to corrosion. Steel, on the other hand, is known for its exceptional strength and durability, but it is heavier and more prone to rusting than aluminum.
Some manufacturers also offer rolldown shutters made of polycarbonate, a type of plastic that is both lightweight and highly resistant to impact. However, these shutters are less common and may not offer the same level of protection as those made of metal.
Design Features
Rolldown shutters come with a variety of design features that enhance their functionality and ease of use. For instance, most shutters are equipped with a manual crank for raising and lowering the shutters, although motorized systems are also available for larger shutters or for those who prefer the convenience of automatic operation.
Other design features may include a locking mechanism for added security, a built-in screen for ventilation and light control, and a choice of colors and finishes to match the exterior of the building.
Operation of Rolldown Shutters
The operation of rolldown shutters is relatively straightforward. The shutters are raised and lowered by turning a crank or pushing a button on a motorized system. When raised, the shutters roll up into the housing unit, where they are stored out of sight. When lowered, the shutters roll down along the tracks to cover the window or door, providing a solid barrier against the elements.
One of the main advantages of rolldown shutters is their ease of operation. Unlike other types of hurricane shutters, which may require time-consuming installation and removal before and after each storm, rolldown shutters can be deployed quickly and easily, often with just the turn of a crank or the push of a button.
Manual Operation
Manual rolldown shutters are operated by turning a crank, which is usually located on the inside of the building for easy access. The crank is connected to a gear mechanism that rolls the shutters up and down. While manual operation is simple and reliable, it can be physically demanding, especially for larger shutters.
Some manual rolldown shutters are equipped with a locking mechanism, which allows the shutters to be locked in the down position for added security. This can be particularly useful in areas prone to break-ins or vandalism.
Motorized Operation
Motorized rolldown shutters are operated by an electric motor, which is connected to the shutter system via a series of gears. The motor is controlled by a switch or remote control, allowing the shutters to be raised and lowered with the push of a button. Motorized systems offer the convenience of automatic operation, but they are more expensive than manual systems and require a power source, which may not be available during a power outage.
Some motorized rolldown shutters are equipped with a manual override, which allows the shutters to be operated manually in case of a power outage or motor failure. This feature can be a lifesaver in emergency situations, when quick deployment of the shutters is crucial.
Benefits of Rolldown Shutters
Rolldown shutters offer a number of benefits, making them a popular choice for hurricane protection. One of the main benefits is their effectiveness in protecting windows and doors from the destructive forces of hurricanes and other severe weather events. The solid barrier provided by the shutters can withstand high wind pressures and impact from flying debris, helping to prevent damage to the building and injury to its occupants.
Another benefit of rolldown shutters is their ease of operation. Unlike other types of hurricane shutters, which may require time-consuming installation and removal before and after each storm, rolldown shutters can be deployed quickly and easily, often with just the turn of a crank or the push of a button. This can be particularly useful in emergency situations, when quick deployment of the shutters is crucial.
Protection Against Severe Weather
Rolldown shutters are designed to provide maximum protection against severe weather, including hurricanes, tornadoes, and severe storms. The interlocking slats of the shutters form a solid barrier that can withstand high wind pressures and impact from flying debris. This can help to prevent damage to the windows and doors, which are often the most vulnerable parts of a building during a storm.
By protecting the windows and doors, rolldown shutters can also help to prevent water damage caused by rain entering the building. In addition, the shutters can help to maintain the structural integrity of the building by preventing wind pressure from building up inside, which can lead to roof failure and other structural damage.
Security and Privacy
In addition to their weather protection benefits, rolldown shutters also offer a level of security and privacy. When lowered, the shutters provide a solid barrier that can deter break-ins and vandalism. The shutters can also be locked in the down position for added security.
Furthermore, when the shutters are down, they can provide privacy by blocking the view into the building. This can be particularly useful in residential settings, where privacy is often a concern.
Installation of Rolldown Shutters
The installation of rolldown shutters involves mounting the housing unit above the window or door, installing the tracks on either side, and attaching the shutters to the tracks. The installation process requires precision and expertise to ensure that the shutters operate smoothly and effectively. Therefore, it is generally recommended to hire a professional installer to handle the job.
Before the installation can begin, accurate measurements of the window or door must be taken to ensure that the shutters fit properly. The housing unit and tracks must be securely mounted to the building to withstand the forces exerted by the shutters during a storm. Once the shutters are installed, they should be tested to ensure that they operate smoothly and can be locked in the down position.
Preparation and Measurement
Before the installation of rolldown shutters can begin, accurate measurements of the window or door must be taken. This includes the width and height of the opening, as well as the depth of the recess if the shutters are to be installed inside the window or door frame. These measurements will determine the size of the shutters, housing unit, and tracks.
In addition to the measurements, the installer must also assess the condition of the building to determine the best method of mounting the housing unit and tracks. This may involve checking the condition of the walls, the presence of any obstructions, and the type of material (e.g., brick, wood, concrete) to which the shutters will be attached.
Mounting and Installation
The mounting of the housing unit and tracks is a critical step in the installation of rolldown shutters. The housing unit must be securely mounted above the window or door, while the tracks must be installed on either side. The mounting must be strong enough to withstand the forces exerted by the shutters during a storm, and the tracks must be aligned properly to ensure smooth operation of the shutters.
Once the housing unit and tracks are installed, the shutters can be attached to the tracks. The shutters are typically rolled up into the housing unit and then lowered down the tracks to check for smooth operation. The shutters should be able to roll up and down easily, without any binding or jamming.
Maintenance of Rolldown Shutters
Like any other part of a building, rolldown shutters require regular maintenance to ensure their longevity and effectiveness. This includes cleaning the shutters, lubricating the tracks, and checking for any signs of damage or wear. Regular maintenance can help to prevent problems and ensure that the shutters are ready to provide protection when needed.
The frequency of maintenance will depend on several factors, including the material of the shutters, the local climate, and the frequency of use. As a general rule, the shutters should be inspected at least once a year, and more frequently in areas with severe weather conditions or high salt content in the air.
Cleaning and Lubrication
Cleaning the shutters involves removing any dirt, dust, or debris that has accumulated on the slats, tracks, or housing unit. This can usually be done with a soft brush and mild detergent. After cleaning, the tracks should be lubricated with a silicone-based lubricant to ensure smooth operation.
It’s important to note that abrasive cleaners or harsh chemicals should not be used on rolldown shutters, as they can damage the finish and cause corrosion. Similarly, oil-based lubricants should not be used on the tracks, as they can attract dirt and cause the shutters to jam.
Inspection and Repair
Regular inspection of the shutters can help to identify any signs of damage or wear, such as cracks in the slats, corrosion on the tracks, or problems with the operation of the shutters. If any issues are found, they should be addressed as soon as possible to prevent further damage and ensure the effectiveness of the shutters.
Minor repairs, such as replacing a damaged slat or fixing a jammed track, can often be done by the homeowner. However, major repairs or replacement of the shutters should be handled by a professional to ensure the job is done correctly and safely.
Conclusion
Rolldown hurricane shutters are a critical component of a building’s protective measures against severe weather. With their robust construction, ease of operation, and numerous benefits, these shutters offer a reliable and effective solution for protecting windows and doors from the destructive forces of hurricanes and other severe weather events.
Understanding the design, function, and installation of rolldown shutters is essential for anyone living in a hurricane-prone area. By investing in high-quality rolldown shutters and maintaining them properly, homeowners can ensure the safety and security of their property and its occupants during a storm.