Commercial hurricane shutters are a crucial component of any building located in hurricane-prone areas. They provide a first line of defense against the destructive forces of a hurricane, protecting windows and doors from flying debris and high wind pressures. This article will delve into the details of shutter sizes, explaining the various sizes available, their applications, and how to choose the right size for your specific needs.
Understanding shutter sizes is essential for both building owners and contractors. The right size of shutter can significantly enhance the safety and security of a building during a hurricane. Moreover, it can also contribute to the aesthetic appeal of the building, blending seamlessly with the overall design and architecture. This article provides an in-depth understanding of shutter sizes, helping you make informed decisions when it comes to commercial hurricane shutters.
Standard Shutter Sizes
Commercial hurricane shutters come in a variety of standard sizes. These sizes are designed to fit most windows and doors in commercial buildings. Standard sizes typically range from 24 inches to 72 inches in width, and from 24 inches to 72 inches in height. The width and height of the shutter are measured from the outside edges of the shutter frame.
Standard shutter sizes are usually available in increments of 12 inches. This allows for a wide range of size options, catering to different window and door sizes. However, it’s important to note that the actual size of the shutter may be slightly smaller than the stated size, to allow for proper installation and operation of the shutter.
Benefits of Standard Sizes
Standard shutter sizes offer several benefits. Firstly, they are readily available, making it easy to replace or install new shutters quickly. Secondly, they are generally more affordable than custom sizes, as they are produced in large quantities. Lastly, standard sizes are designed to fit most windows and doors, reducing the need for extensive modifications during installation.
However, standard sizes may not be suitable for all buildings. Some buildings may have unique window or door sizes that do not fit the standard sizes. In such cases, custom-sized shutters may be required.
Custom Shutter Sizes
Commercial hurricane shutters can also be custom-made to fit specific window or door sizes. Custom sizes are typically required for buildings with non-standard window or door sizes, or for buildings with unique architectural designs. Custom sizes can range from small shutters for narrow windows, to large shutters for wide doors or storefronts.
Custom shutter sizes are made to order, based on the exact measurements of the window or door. This ensures a perfect fit, providing maximum protection against hurricanes. However, custom sizes may take longer to produce and may be more expensive than standard sizes.
Benefits of Custom Sizes
Custom shutter sizes offer several benefits. Firstly, they provide a perfect fit for any window or door size, ensuring maximum protection against hurricanes. Secondly, they can enhance the aesthetic appeal of the building, as they can be designed to match the architectural style of the building. Lastly, custom sizes can accommodate unique window or door shapes, such as arched or circular windows.
However, custom sizes may require more time to produce and install, and may be more expensive than standard sizes. Therefore, it’s important to weigh the benefits against the costs when considering custom sizes.
Choosing the Right Shutter Size
Choosing the right shutter size is crucial for effective hurricane protection. The shutter size should be large enough to cover the entire window or door, including the frame. This ensures that the window or door is fully protected against flying debris and high wind pressures during a hurricane.
When choosing a shutter size, it’s important to consider the size of the window or door, the architectural style of the building, and the local building codes. Some building codes may require specific shutter sizes or may have restrictions on the size of shutters that can be installed.
Measuring for Shutter Size
Measuring for shutter size is a critical step in the process of choosing the right shutter. Measurements should be taken from the outside edges of the window or door frame, including any trim or molding. It’s important to measure both the width and the height of the window or door, as both dimensions are needed to determine the shutter size.
When measuring for shutter size, it’s recommended to take multiple measurements at different points, to account for any variations in the size of the window or door. The smallest measurement should be used to determine the shutter size, to ensure that the shutter will fit properly.
Installation Considerations
Installation considerations can also influence the choice of shutter size. The size of the shutter can affect the complexity of the installation process, the amount of hardware required, and the overall cost of the installation. Larger shutters may require more hardware and may be more difficult to install, increasing the cost of the installation.
It’s also important to consider the space available for the installation of the shutter. Some shutters may require additional space for the shutter box or for the tracks that guide the shutter. Therefore, it’s important to ensure that there is sufficient space available for the installation of the shutter.
Professional Installation
Professional installation is recommended for commercial hurricane shutters. Professionals have the necessary skills and experience to install shutters correctly, ensuring that they provide maximum protection against hurricanes. They can also ensure that the shutters are installed in compliance with local building codes, which can be particularly important for commercial buildings.
Professional installation can also save time and effort, as professionals have the necessary tools and equipment to install shutters quickly and efficiently. Moreover, professional installation can provide peace of mind, knowing that the shutters have been installed correctly and will provide reliable protection against hurricanes.
Conclusion
Understanding shutter sizes is essential for choosing the right commercial hurricane shutters. Whether you choose standard sizes or custom sizes, it’s important to ensure that the shutters are large enough to cover the entire window or door, providing maximum protection against hurricanes. Moreover, it’s important to consider the installation considerations and to opt for professional installation, to ensure that the shutters are installed correctly and in compliance with local building codes.
By understanding shutter sizes and making informed decisions, you can enhance the safety and security of your building, protecting it against the destructive forces of a hurricane. Moreover, you can also enhance the aesthetic appeal of your building, choosing shutters that blend seamlessly with the overall design and architecture of the building.