Rolldown hurricane shutters, also known as roll-up or rolling shutters, are a type of hurricane protection device commonly used in areas prone to hurricanes and severe storms. These shutters are typically made from high-quality aluminum or steel and are designed to roll down over windows and doors to protect them from high winds, flying debris, and water damage.
They are a popular choice for homeowners and businesses due to their ease of use, durability, and effectiveness. Unlike other types of hurricane shutters, rolldown shutters can be deployed quickly and easily, often with the push of a button. This makes them an ideal choice for those who want maximum protection with minimal effort.
Design and Construction of Rolldown Hurricane Shutters
The design and construction of rolldown hurricane shutters play a crucial role in their effectiveness. These shutters are typically made from high-quality aluminum or steel, materials known for their strength and durability. The shutters are constructed in a way that allows them to roll up into a box when not in use, and roll down over windows and doors when needed.
The shutters are made up of a series of slats that are connected together. When the shutters are rolled down, these slats interlock to create a solid barrier against wind and debris. The shutters are typically installed on the exterior of a building, above the windows or doors they are designed to protect.
Materials Used in Construction
As mentioned earlier, rolldown hurricane shutters are typically made from high-quality aluminum or steel. These materials are chosen for their strength and durability, as well as their resistance to corrosion. This is particularly important in coastal areas, where the shutters may be exposed to salt water and other corrosive elements.
Some rolldown shutters may also feature a layer of insulation. This not only adds to the strength and durability of the shutters, but also provides additional benefits such as improved energy efficiency and noise reduction.
Installation Process
The installation of rolldown hurricane shutters is a relatively straightforward process, but it does require some expertise. The shutters are typically installed on the exterior of a building, above the windows or doors they are designed to protect. They are mounted in a box, which is attached to the building. When not in use, the shutters roll up into this box.
Installation typically involves securing the box to the building, installing the shutters, and then connecting the shutters to a control mechanism. This control mechanism can be manual (such as a crank or pull strap) or motorized (allowing the shutters to be operated with the push of a button).
Operation of Rolldown Hurricane Shutters
The operation of rolldown hurricane shutters is one of their key advantages. Unlike other types of hurricane shutters, which may require significant effort to deploy, rolldown shutters can be deployed quickly and easily. This is particularly important in the event of a sudden storm, when time is of the essence.
The operation of the shutters typically involves either turning a crank or pushing a button. In the case of manual shutters, a crank or pull strap is used to roll the shutters down over the windows or doors. For motorized shutters, the process is even simpler – the shutters can be deployed with the push of a button.
Manual Operation
Manual rolldown hurricane shutters are operated using a crank or pull strap. This requires some physical effort, but is still relatively easy compared to other types of hurricane shutters. The crank or pull strap is typically located on the interior of the building, allowing the shutters to be deployed from inside.
One of the advantages of manual shutters is that they do not require electricity to operate. This can be a significant benefit in the event of a power outage, which is a common occurrence during severe storms. However, manual shutters do require some physical strength to operate, which may be a consideration for some people.
Motorized Operation
Motorized rolldown hurricane shutters are the easiest to operate. These shutters are connected to a motor, which allows them to be deployed with the push of a button. This can be done from inside the building, providing maximum convenience and safety.
One of the main advantages of motorized shutters is their ease of use. However, they do require electricity to operate. This means that in the event of a power outage, the shutters may not be able to be deployed unless there is a backup power source available. Some motorized shutters come with a manual override feature, which allows them to be operated manually in the event of a power outage.
Maintenance and Care of Rolldown Hurricane Shutters
Like any other home or business protection device, rolldown hurricane shutters require regular maintenance and care to ensure they remain in good working order. This typically involves regular cleaning, lubrication, and inspection for damage or wear and tear.
Regular cleaning is important to remove any dirt, debris, or salt that may have accumulated on the shutters. This can be done with a mild detergent and water. Lubrication is also important to ensure the shutters operate smoothly. This typically involves applying a silicone-based lubricant to the tracks and other moving parts.
Inspection and Repair
Regular inspection of the shutters is also important. This involves checking for any signs of damage or wear and tear, such as bent or broken slats, damaged tracks, or issues with the control mechanism. Any issues should be addressed as soon as possible to prevent further damage and ensure the shutters continue to provide effective protection.
In the event that repairs are needed, it is generally recommended to hire a professional. While some minor repairs may be possible to do yourself, more significant repairs should be left to the professionals to ensure they are done correctly and safely.
Preparation for Storm Season
As storm season approaches, it’s important to ensure your rolldown hurricane shutters are ready to provide the protection you need. This involves not only regular maintenance and care, but also testing the shutters to ensure they operate correctly.
Testing the shutters involves deploying them and then rolling them back up again. This allows you to ensure the shutters operate smoothly and correctly, and gives you the opportunity to address any issues before a storm hits. It’s also a good idea to have a backup plan in place in case the shutters fail to operate when needed.
Benefits of Rolldown Hurricane Shutters
Rolldown hurricane shutters offer a number of benefits, making them a popular choice for hurricane protection. One of the key benefits is their ease of use. Unlike other types of hurricane shutters, which may require significant effort to deploy, rolldown shutters can be deployed quickly and easily. This can be a significant advantage in the event of a sudden storm, when time is of the essence.
Another key benefit of rolldown shutters is their effectiveness. When properly installed and maintained, these shutters provide a solid barrier against high winds and flying debris. They also help to prevent water damage by blocking rain and storm surge.
Durability and Longevity
Rolldown hurricane shutters are also known for their durability and longevity. Made from high-quality materials and designed to withstand the harsh conditions of a hurricane, these shutters are built to last. With proper care and maintenance, they can provide many years of reliable protection.
Furthermore, because they are typically installed on the exterior of a building, they are exposed to the elements year-round. This means they are designed to withstand not only the harsh conditions of a hurricane, but also the everyday wear and tear of sun, rain, and wind.
Energy Efficiency and Noise Reduction
In addition to their protective benefits, rolldown hurricane shutters can also improve energy efficiency and reduce noise. The shutters provide an additional layer of insulation, which can help to keep heat in during the winter and out during the summer. This can result in significant energy savings over time.
Furthermore, the shutters can also help to reduce noise from outside. This can be particularly beneficial in busy areas or during a storm, when the noise of high winds and rain can be disruptive.
Conclusion
In conclusion, rolldown hurricane shutters are a highly effective form of hurricane protection. They offer a number of benefits, including ease of use, durability, and effectiveness. With proper care and maintenance, these shutters can provide many years of reliable protection against the damaging effects of hurricanes and severe storms.
Whether you live in a hurricane-prone area or simply want to ensure your home or business is as protected as possible, rolldown hurricane shutters are a worthwhile investment. They not only provide peace of mind in the event of a storm, but also offer everyday benefits such as improved energy efficiency and noise reduction.