Hidden Power: The Convenience of Retractable & Roll Away Hurricane Shutters
For many homeowners in the coastal Carolinas, the decision to install hurricane shutters comes with a common concern: “Will they change the way my house looks?” It’s a valid question. You’ve invested in a home with beautiful views and a carefully considered architectural style. The idea of permanently altering that look with visible tracks and panels can be a deterrent.
This is where the elegance of modern engineering provides the perfect solution: **retractable, roll away hurricane shutters**. These systems offer the highest level of certified storm protection, yet they remain completely hidden until the moment you need them. At American Hurricane Shutters, we are experts in the installation of these premier rolldown shutter systems from industry leaders **ASSA/Bertha HV** and **Alutech United**.
How Do “Hidden” Hurricane Shutters Work?
The concept behind a roll away shutter is simple and brilliant. The shutter itself is a curtain of interlocking, heavy-duty aluminum slats. When not in use, this curtain rolls up into a compact, self-contained housing box mounted discreetly above the window or door opening. The side rails that guide the shutter are sleek and can be powder-coated to blend in perfectly with your home’s trim.
The Result: Protection on Demand
For 99% of the year, you don’t even know your hurricane protection is there. Your windows are clear, your views are unobstructed, and your home’s aesthetic is completely preserved. But when a storm threatens, you can deploy a solid wall of aluminum in minutes, securing your home. It’s the ultimate combination of “out of sight, out of mind” and “ready in a moment.”
The Unmatched Convenience of Retractable Systems
Beyond their hidden nature, the convenience of roll away shutters is their biggest selling point. This is especially true for our motorized options.
Push-Button Deployment
Imagine a hurricane watch is issued. Instead of a multi-hour project of hauling and installing panels, you simply walk through your house and press a button on a remote control or wall switch. In minutes, every window and door is completely secured. This is a game-changer for:
- Large Homes: Securing dozens of windows becomes a simple, stress-free task.
- Multi-Story Homes: There’s no need to climb dangerous ladders to protect second or third-story windows.
- Vacation Homeowners: You can often deploy your shutters remotely, securing your property even when you’re hundreds of miles away.
- Business Owners: Protect your commercial property quickly at the end of the day without needing a large crew.
The Cost of Ultimate Convenience and Security
As a premium product, roll away shutters represent a significant investment in your property. The cost reflects their advanced engineering, durable materials, and complex installation.
- Manual Rated Rolldowns: These systems, operated with a hand crank, start at approximately $48 per square foot.
- Motorized Rated Rolldowns: The cost for the ultimate convenience is the base price of the shutter plus an additional $700 per opening for the high-quality motor and controls.
While the upfront cost is higher than for accordion shutters or panels, the value is immense. These systems also serve as a powerful security shutter, providing a strong deterrent to intruders year-round. This dual-purpose functionality, combined with the effortless storm protection, makes them a wise long-term investment that increases your property’s value.
Why Professional Installation is Non-Negotiable
A hidden shutter system is a precision machine. The installation process is complex and requires factory-trained technicians. Our in-house crews at American Hurricane Shutters have the expertise to ensure:
- The housing box is perfectly level and securely anchored to your home’s structure.
- The electrical work for motorized systems is safe, clean, and reliable.
- The side tracks are perfectly plumb and weatherproofed to prevent leaks.
- The entire system operates flawlessly and meets all manufacturer specifications and local building codes.
This is not a DIY project. A professional installation is the only way to guarantee the safety, performance, and longevity of your investment.
Preserve Your Views, Protect Your Home
You don’t have to compromise your home’s beauty for its safety. Discover the elegance and power of hidden, retractable hurricane shutters. Let us show you how you can have complete peace of mind without changing the way your home looks.
As a trusted, family-owned local business since 2007, we are committed to providing the best protection for our neighbors. Call American Hurricane Shutters today at (910) 256-1288 or email the owner, Matthew Burns, at matt.burns@ahscarolinas.com to schedule your free, on-site consultation.
