Colonial shutters offer the perfect blend of classic architectural charm and cutting-edge hurricane protection. But they’re more than just a pretty facade. Our colonial shutters are engineered to meet the toughest building codes in the Carolinas, providing a formidable barrier against high winds and flying debris.
You don’t need to worry about storage once American Shutter installs your Colonial storm shutters. Whether that is in Wilmington, Myrtle Beach, Morehead City, or anywhere in between. They’re up for life. Contact American Hurricane Shutters today to find out how we can help with your shutter needs.
Key Features of Our Colonials
Heavy-duty aluminum construction:Â We use only the highest-grade, rust-proof aluminum to ensure your shutters will last for decades.
Powder-coated finish:Â Our shutters are available in a wide range of colors, all with a durable, powder-coated finish that resists fading and chipping
u003cstrongu003eEasy to deploy:u003c/strongu003e In the event of a storm warning, you can easily close and secure your colonial shutters in a matter of minutes.
Energy efficient: In closed or semi-closed position accordion reflects sun’s harsh rays and provides shade.
Vast Color Selection: Over 200 powered coat finish options at no added cost
Easy to Use and Maintain
One of the biggest advantages of colonial hurricane shutters is their ease of use and maintenance. Shutters can be closed quickly in the event of a storm, but may require ladders to deploy in a rated fashion. This means you can quickly secure your home in the event of a storm without needing to hire a professional or spend hours installing and removing panels. These shutters require very little maintenance, (monthly use with cleaning 1-2x a year) making them a hassle-free investment for any homeowner.
See Colonial Shutters In Action
A grand, two-story brick mansion with white columns and ornate detailing stands amidst lush greenery and trees. Moss hangs from branches, creating a historic Southern ambiance. A brick path leads to the entrance, flanked by manicured bushes. in either North or South Carolina
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Panels
Panels are vastly harder to deploy
Accordions can be deployed in a fraction of the time
Adds aesthetic value to home
Can be used for sun protection
Rolldowns
Electric rolldowns are easier and quicker to use
Colonials are much better looking
Colonials are easier to maintain
Hurricane Screens
Colonials can be used on any opening you can get your hands on
Screens are not recommended to be placed directly against openings due to the potential to break the glass during impact events
Screens are better options to cover large openings that are not against glass
Bahama Shutters
Both are very aesthetically pleasing, bahamas match more of a tropical look while colonials match plantation style
Bahama shutters do block some of the view, although the articulating blades do cut down on that.
Colonials can be installed on decks/doors, where Bahamas are either not recommended or possible
Similar price
Flat Polycarbonate
Polycarbonate is only suggested on non-operable windows
Colonials are a better choice on all other openings
Maintenance
Accordions are some of the lowest maintenance shutters that are permanently affixed to the home. Check out our Maintenance Section for details.
Pressure Rated
We perform design pressure calculations to ensure your shutters will not blow in/out during a storm- which can cause the home to implode.
Impact Rated
Shutters meet ASTM 1886E/1996E/e330 and/or TAS 201, 202, 203 to ensure superior protection from flying debris.
Adds Beauty and Value
While all shutters add value to your home due to their protective properties, colonials add a great deal of aesthetic value that vastly increases sale value.
Energy Savings
If HOA allows, deployment of shutters when not around (or during storms) will cut down on solar gain/loss. Ease of use means they can be used daily if desired.
Insurance
Your insurance company may offer a discount if you protect all the openings on your home with a blend of hurricane protection products.
Colonial Shutter Frequently Asked Questions
What are the best companies for custom colonial shutters?
For homeowners in the Carolinas, specialized local manufacturers like American Hurricane Shutters are the best choice because we build specifically to withstand coastal wind loads and salt-air environments.
How do I measure windows for colonial shutters installation?
Measure the width and height of the window opening from inside the casing; for functional shutters, each shutter panel should be exactly half the width of the window to ensure they meet perfectly when closed.
Where can I buy affordable colonial shutters online?
While many mass-market retailers sell decorative vinyl versions, affordable and durable aluminum or composite options are best sourced through regional specialists who offer factory-direct pricing, measure your windows for you, and can install to hurricane specifications.
Which brands or materials offer the most durable colonial shutters?
Powder-coated aluminum is the most durable material for coastal areas, as it resists rust, rot, and UV damage far better than traditional wood or vinyl.
Can I get colonial shutters with motorized opening features?
No, while motorized opening features are available for roll-down styles, traditional swinging Colonial shutters are operated manually to maintain their classic aesthetic.
What maintenance is required for colonial shutters?
You should rinse your shutters with fresh water every few months to remove salt buildup and lubricate hinges and hardware with a dry silicone-based spray at least twice a year.
Do any shutter companies offer financing or payment plans?
Yes, we do here at American Hurricane. Additionally, homeowners in certain regions may qualify for wind mitigation grants or insurance premium discounts that help offset the cost.
Are there colonial shutter packages specifically for historic home renovations?
Yes, custom manufacturers can replicate historic wood designs using modern, impact-rated aluminum to satisfy both historic preservation boards and modern safety codes.
What is the average cost to install colonial shutters professionally?
Professional installation for a home typically ranges from $2,500 to $50,000, depending on how many windows are being covered with labor costs varying based on the height and complexity of the windows.
How do colonial shutters compare to plantation shutters in style and price?
Colonial shutters are exterior fixtures that swing shut for protection and privacy, whereas plantation shutters are interior treatments used for light control. Exterior Colonial shutters are generally more expensive due to the heavy-duty, weather-resistant materials required.
How do I choose a colonial shutter style that matches colonial architecture?
The “rule of thumb” is to choose a height that matches the window opening and a width that is exactly half the window’s width, ensuring the shutters look functional even if they are decorative.
What are the best colonial shutter options for energy efficiency?
Solid-panel or heavy-louvered aluminum Colonial shutters provide the best energy efficiency by creating a thermal barrier that reduces solar heat gain by up to 50%.
What style of shutters are “in” for 2025?
In 2025, shutters remain highly in style, with a shift toward wider louvers and clean, neutral powder-coated finishes that provide a modern-coastal look.
What is the difference between Bahama and colonial shutters?
Bahama shutters are one-piece units hinged at the top that prop open like an awning. Colonial shutters are two-piece units hinged at the sides that swing outward to the left and right.
What are colonial hurricane shutters?
These are impact-rated versions of the classic side-hinged shutter. They are constructed from heavy-duty aluminum and include reinforced locking bars to protect windows from high winds and flying debris.
Service Areas: Local Hurricane Protection Near You
AHS Carolinas provides certified installation and repair across North and South Carolina. Click your region below to see specific service locations.
Myrtle Beach & The Grand Strand (SC)
We are the premier provider of hurricane shutters in Myrtle Beach, serving the entire Grand Strand. Our team actively installs Bahama and storm shutters in North Myrtle Beach, Surfside Beach, and Garden City. We extend our wind-rated protection inland to Conway, Socastee, and Carolina Forest, and south to Murrells Inlet and Pawleys Island. Whether you are in Cherry Grove Beach, Little River, or Arcadian Shores, we have a storm solution for you.
Brunswick Islands & South Coast (NC)
Protecting the Brunswick barrier islands is our specialty. We service Oak Island, Holden Beach, Ocean Isle Beach, and Sunset Beach with marine-grade shutters. Our technicians are frequently in Southport, Shallotte, and St. James. We also cover inland communities including Leland, Boiling Springs Lake, Winnabow, Navassa, and Lake Waccamaw, ensuring Carolina Shores and Sunset Harbor residents are ready for hurricane season. Includes Caswell Beach and Bald Head Island.
Wilmington & Cape Fear (NC)
Headquartered near the Cape Fear River, we are the top choice for hurricane shutters in Wilmington, NC. We protect coastal properties in Wrightsville Beach, Kure Beach, and Carolina Beach. Our service radius includes Porters Neck, Figure Eight Island, Castle Hayne, Murrayville, Wrightsboro, Myrtle Grove, and Seabreeze.
Crystal Coast, Topsail & Onslow (NC)
From Jacksonville to New Bern, we secure homes against Atlantic storms. We provide rapid service to Topsail Beach, North Topsail Beach, and Surf City, including Hampstead, Sloop Point, and Holly Ridge. Further north, our team installs impact shutters in Emerald Isle, Swansboro, Atlantic Beach, Morehead City, Beaufort, Havelock, Pine Knoll Shores, and Indian Beach.
Matthew BurnsPresident
Matthew Burns is a storm protection expert and the President of American Hurricane Shutters. Continuing his family’s legacy, he combines 6+ years of hands-on experience with an analytical background from Duke University (B.S., Economics). He specializes in breaking down complex building codes and the long-term financial benefits of hurricane protection, helping Carolina homeowners make safe, informed, and cost-effective decisions.
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