Bahama Shutters in Wilmington, NC: Tropical Style & Storm Protection
Bahama Shutters: Iconic Style & Hurricane Protection
For Carolina homeowners, Bahama shutters (also known as Bermuda shutters) offer an unmatched combination of tropical style, cooling shade, and formidable storm protection. American Hurricane Shutters is the premier installer of high-quality decorative and hurricane-rated Bahama shutters for homes in Wilmington, NC, and across the coast.
Unlike other systems, Bahama window shutters are propped open from the bottom, providing privacy and ventilation while shielding your home from the harsh sun. When a storm approaches, they are closed and secured to the wall in minutes, offering a robust defense against wind and debris.
Key benefits of our bahama hurricane shutters include:
Your Bahama Shutter Options: Rated, Articulating & Decorative
We are experts in installing a wide range of Bahama exterior shutters to fit your specific needs—whether you want hurricane-rated defense or a purely decorative accent. We are proud to be expert installers for ASSA and Town & Country, offering premium options you can’t find at big-box stores.
Articulating Blade Rated Bahamas (Our Premium Option)
For the homeowner who wants it all, our Town & Country UltraView and Fullview articulating shutters are the ultimate choice. These rated shutters allow you to adjust the louvers from open (for a clear view) to closed (for privacy and shade). They are fully impact-rated, giving you hurricane protection without ever sacrificing your natural light.
Fixed Blade Rated Bahama Shutters
This is the workhorse of hurricane-rated Bahama shutters. Made from heavy-duty, extruded aluminum, these fixed-louver shutters provide 24/7 shade and are engineered to meet the toughest building codes for hurricane protection.
Decorative Non-Rated Bahama Shutters
How Much Do Bahama Shutters Cost?
We believe in 100% pricing transparency. Your keyword research shows cost is a primary concern, and here is a clear breakdown of our pricing. The price reflects the engineering, materials, and (if applicable) the articulating mechanism.
- Articulating Blade Rated (Town & Country): $60-68 per square foot
- Fixed Blade Rated (ASSA): $54-58 per square foot
- Decorative Non-Rated Bahamas: $50-54 per square foot
For a custom quote based on your window sizes, please use our Online Shutter Cost Calculator or call us for a free, in-home consultation.
Comparison with Other Shutters
Get a Free Estimate for Bahama Shutters
Ready to add timeless coastal style and unbeatable protection to your home? Contact us today for a free, no-obligation estimate on a custom Bahama shutter system.
Reach Us
Location :
Wilmington, NC
Morehead City, NC
Myrtle Beach, SC
Email :
matt.burns@ahscarolinas.com
Phone :
+1-910-256-1288
+1-910-256-8656
+1 843-868-1390
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)
Brunswick Islands & South Coast (NC)
Wilmington & Cape Fear (NC)
Crystal Coast, Topsail & Onslow (NC)
Bahama Hurricane Shutters: Frequently Asked Questions
At American Hurricane Shutters, we understand that choosing the right storm protection for your home is a significant decision. Whether you are in Wilmington, NC, or Pawleys Island, SC, we have compiled the top questions homeowners ask about Bahama shutters to help you make an informed choice.
1. What are Bahama shutters and how do they differ from standard shutters?
Bahama shutters (also known as Bermuda or Bimini shutters) are one-piece window coverings hinged at the top that prop open to provide shade and airflow. Unlike standard colonial shutters that hinge on the sides and open horizontally, Bahama shutters swing outward from the bottom. This unique design gives homes a distinct tropical aesthetic while offering 24/7 sun protection.
For coastal homeowners in North and South Carolina, the primary difference lies in utility. While standard shutters are often purely decorative, hurricane-rated Bahama shutters are engineered to lock down securely against the wall, providing a robust shield against flying debris and high winds. [cite_start]They are a permanent fixture, meaning no storage is required[cite: 1].
2. How much do Bahama shutters cost per square foot?
Rated fixed-blade Bahama shutters typically cost $56 per square foot, while articulating blade models run approximately $64 per square foot. If you are looking for purely decorative, non-rated options, the price is generally around $50 per square foot. [cite_start]These prices exclude installation fees, which can vary based on the structure of your home[cite: 1, 2].
It is important to note that custom sizing and specific powder-coated colors can influence the final investment. At American Hurricane Shutters, we strive for transparency. You can use our online cost calculator to get a better estimate for your specific windows. Comparing these to other options, they are generally more affordable than motorized rolldowns but a higher investment than standard storm panels.
3. How do Bahama shutters work during a hurricane?
To prepare for a storm, you simply remove the telescoping support arms (or loosen the side knobs), lower the shutter against the window, and secure it using the locking pins or clips. This process takes only a minute or two per window, making them one of the easiest shutters to deploy.
Once locked down, the shutter creates a protective barrier. High-quality models, like our Bertha HV or Town & Country shutters, are impact-tested. The louvers (slats) deflect wind and repel debris. [cite_start]Because they are permanently mounted, you never have to scramble to find panels or plywood when a storm warning is issued in the Cape Fear region[cite: 2].
4. Can I build my own Bahama shutters (DIY)?
[cite_start]While you can build decorative wood shutters yourself, we strongly advise against building your own hurricane protection unless you have access to impact-rated materials and testing facilities. Search queries for “how to build Bahama shutters” are common, but homemade wooden shutters rarely meet the wind-load codes required for coastal NC and SC[cite: 1, 3].
If you are a skilled DIY enthusiast looking to install them yourself to save on labor, American Hurricane Shutters can supply the rated products directly to you. We offer ASSA Shutters and Town & Country kits that are pre-sized and code-compliant. Installing a rated aluminum system ensures your insurance company recognizes the protection, which homemade wood versions typically do not achieve.
5. What is the difference between Bahama and Bermuda shutters?
There is no structural difference; “Bahama shutters” and “Bermuda shutters” are different names for the exact same top-hinged style. The terminology often changes based on regional dialect or the manufacturer’s preference. [cite_start]In the Carolinas, “Bahama” is the most common term[cite: 5, 6].
Occasionally, people may use “Bermuda” to refer specifically to longer, wider versions used on larger porches, but in the hurricane protection industry, the terms are interchangeable. Whether you call them Bimini, Bermuda, or Bahama shutters, American Hurricane Shutters services them all throughout Southeastern NC and Northeastern SC.
6. Are aluminum or wood Bahama shutters better for the coast?
Aluminum is vastly superior to wood for coastal hurricane protection due to its strength, durability, and resistance to salt air corrosion. Wood shutters require frequent painting, are prone to rot in humid climates like Wilmington’s, and are much heavier to operate.
Our aluminum shutters, such as the Bertha HV brand, are powder-coated to resist fading and chipping. They look like traditional wood from a distance but offer the structural integrity required to pass High Velocity Hurricane Zone (HVHZ) testing. [cite_start]For longevity and low maintenance in our service area, aluminum is the only material we recommend[cite: 5].
7. How to measure for Bahama shutters?
To measure for Bahama shutters, measure the width of the window opening at the top, middle, and bottom, and the height from the top header to the sill. Bahama shutters generally need to overlap the window opening to mount securely to the wall structure, usually by 1-2 inches on the sides and top.
Accuracy is critical for hurricane rating. If the shutter is too small, it won’t anchor into the structural studs properly. If you are unsure, contact us for a professional consultation. [cite_start]We ensure the “stack height” (where the shutter sits when open) doesn’t interfere with soffits or other architectural features[cite: 2].
8. Do Bahama shutters block all the light?
No, Bahama shutters are designed to filter light rather than block it completely, creating a cool, ambient glow inside the room. Because they are propped open at an angle, they shade the window from direct harsh sunlight while still allowing indirect light to enter.
If you choose articulating blade Bahama shutters (available for roughly $64/sq ft), you can adjust the louvers themselves to control light levels, similar to a blind. [cite_start]Fixed-blade models maintain a constant angle (usually 45 degrees), which offers excellent privacy while still keeping the interior bright enough during the day[cite: 6].
9. How to install Bahama shutters?
[cite_start]Installation involves mounting a continuous “female” hinge rail above the window header, sliding the shutter’s “male” hinge into it, and securing the telescoping arms to the wall and shutter frame. For hurricane-rated installations, you must use specific fasteners (like stainless steel Tapcons or lag screws) spaced according to the manufacturer’s engineering drawings[cite: 2, 4].
While this sounds straightforward, drilling into brick veneer, siding, or stucco requires care to prevent water intrusion. American Hurricane Shutters has been installing these since 2007. Visit our process page to see how our team handles professional installation to ensure code compliance.
10. What wind speeds can Bahama shutters withstand?
[cite_start]Rated Bahama shutters are engineered to withstand hurricane-force winds, typically meeting ASTM standards for High Velocity Hurricane Zones (HVHZ), often rated for winds exceeding 150+ mph. The specific rating depends on the size of the shutter and the brand (e.g., Bertha HV or Town & Country)[cite: 6].
It is vital to distinguish between “decorative” and “rated” shutters. Decorative shutters might fly off the wall in a Category 1 storm. Always ask for the product approval code or Notice of Acceptance (NOA) to ensure the product meets the wind-borne debris requirements for areas like Myrtle Beach and Topsail Island.
11. Where to buy Bahama shutters near me?
If you are located in Southeastern NC or Northeastern SC, American Hurricane Shutters is your premier local supplier. We serve a wide area including Wilmington, Jacksonville, New Bern, and down to Pawleys Island. [cite_start]We source directly from top manufacturers like Eastern Metal Supply and Alutech United[cite: 2, 5].
Buying local ensures you have support for warranty issues and maintenance. Unlike big-box stores that may sell “stock” sizes that don’t fit custom coastal windows, we custom-build every shutter to the exact millimeter of your opening.
12. Can you see through Bahama shutters from the inside?
[cite_start]Yes, you can see through the louvers of Bahama shutters from the inside, especially when looking slightly downward. The design provides a view of the outdoors—particularly your yard or the street—while preventing outsiders from looking up and in, offering superior privacy[cite: 7].
The angle of vision depends on how far you prop the shutter open. With articulating blade models, you can adjust the louvers to a horizontal position for a nearly unobstructed view, similar to opening the slats on a plantation blind.
13. What colors do Bahama shutters come in?
Bahama shutters are available in a vast array of powder-coated colors, including popular coastal hues like white, black, bronze, colonial blue, and seafoam green. Because the aluminum is powder-coated rather than painted, the color is baked on for extreme durability.
At American Hurricane Shutters, we can match almost any aesthetic. Whether you want a “pop” of color to boost curb appeal or a subtle tone that blends with your siding, we have options. Check out our color chart to visualize the possibilities for your home.
14. How to close Bahama shutters for a storm?
To close them, stand inside or outside (depending on window accessibility), remove the pins from the telescoping arms, gently lower the shutter flat against the wall, and secure the locking mechanism at the bottom corners.
This ease of operation is a major selling point. Unlike plywood which takes hours to hang, a whole house of Bahama shutters can be secured in under 20 minutes. [cite_start]Always test your shutters at the start of hurricane season to ensure the hinges move freely and the locking pins are lubricated[cite: 4, 5].
15. Are Bahama shutters waterproof?
Bahama shutters are water-resistant and protect windows from driving rain, but they are not 100% watertight seals. Their main function is to protect the glass from breaking due to impact. By keeping the glass intact, they prevent the massive pressure changes that can lift a roof off a house.
While some water may seep through the louvers in a Category 4 or 5 storm, the shutter drastically reduces the volume of water hitting the window sill. For maximum water tightness, some homeowners opt for Rolldown Shutters, which offer a tighter seal.
16. Do Bahama shutters help with energy efficiency?
Yes, Bahama shutters are excellent for energy efficiency, reducing heat gain by blocking direct sunlight before it touches the glass. This “exterior shading” is far more effective than interior blinds. By keeping your windows shaded, you can significantly lower your air conditioning costs during our hot Carolina summers.
According to the Department of Energy, exterior shading is the most effective way to reduce solar heat gain. This makes Bahama shutters an investment that pays dividends in energy savings year-round, not just during hurricane season.
17. What is the difference between fixed and articulating blades?
Fixed blades are welded at a set angle (usually 45 degrees) for maximum strength and static shade, while articulating blades can be tilted open or closed like a blind. Fixed blade models ($56/sq ft) are generally stronger and less expensive.
Articulating models ($64/sq ft) offer more versatility. You can close the blades completely for total privacy or a storm, or open them fully for maximum light. However, articulating mechanisms have moving parts that require slightly more maintenance to keep them free of salt and grit.
18. Can Bahama shutters be installed on double windows?
Yes, Bahama shutters can span double or even triple window openings, provided there is a mullion (vertical divider) to anchor to or the shutter frame is reinforced. For very wide openings, we often install multiple shutter panels within a single continuous hinge and frame to maintain structural integrity.
We carefully calculate the weight to ensure the top hinge can support the shutter. In some cases, for extremely wide spans, Hurricane Screens might be a better aesthetic alternative, but Bahama shutters are certainly possible and popular for double-hung window sets.
19. How do I maintain my aluminum Bahama shutters?
Maintenance is simple: wash them with mild soap and water every 3-6 months to remove salt and dirt, and lubricate the hinge and arm pins with a clear silicone spray. Avoid harsh chemicals or abrasive scrubbers that could damage the powder coat finish.
Regular operation is key. Even if there is no storm, open and close the shutters and the telescoping arms a few times a year to prevent them from seizing up. For a full guide, visit our Hurricane Shutter Maintenance Page.
20. Can I paint aluminum Bahama shutters?
Yes, but it requires specific preparation. Since our shutters come powder-coated, you cannot simply brush latex paint over them. You must clean the surface thoroughly, lightly sand it to create a mechanical bond, use a primer designed for metal, and then apply high-quality exterior paint.
However, we recommend ordering the correct color initially to avoid this. Powder coating is far more durable than any field-applied paint. If your shutters are faded after 15 years, professional refinishing is often a better choice than DIY painting.
21. Are Bahama shutters secure against burglars?
Yes, when locked in the closed position, Bahama shutters act as a significant deterrent to burglars. They add a layer of metal between the intruder and the glass. While no system is impenetrable, the noise and effort required to breach a locked aluminum shutter make them an excellent security upgrade.
Unlike security bars, they can be opened from the inside (if window style permits reach) or outside for fire egress, making them safer for occupants while still securing the home.
22. How do Bahama shutters compare to accordion shutters?
Bahama shutters are more aesthetically pleasing and offer daily shade, while accordion shutters are generally cheaper ($34/sq ft vs. $56/sq ft) and better suited for large glass doors. Accordions fold to the side and are purely functional; Bahamas add “island style” curb appeal.
Many of our customers mix and match: they install Bahama shutters on the front windows for looks and Accordion Shutters on the side or rear sliding doors for cost-effective protection.
23. What is the “Bertha” HV shutter system?
The Bertha HV (High Velocity) system is a specific brand of hurricane shutter component manufactured by Eastern Metal Supply, known for its exceptional strength and code compliance. It is one of the systems we fabricate at American Hurricane Shutters.
[cite_start]When you see “Bertha” in our specs, it means you are getting a product that has been rigorously tested for the Florida Building Code and HVHZ requirements, ensuring it performs when it matters most[cite: 5].
24. How long do aluminum Bahama shutters last?
With proper maintenance, aluminum Bahama shutters can last 20 to 30 years or more. Aluminum does not rust like steel or rot like wood. The main lifespan factor is the finish; eventually, after decades of UV exposure, the powder coat may chalk or fade, but the structural aluminum remains sound.
Our stainless steel hardware also helps extend the lifespan, resisting the corrosive salt air found in coastal towns like Surf City and Wrightsville Beach.
25. Do you sell Bahama shutter kits for self-installation?
Yes, we can provide “supply-only” kits for customers who are capable contractors or advanced DIYers. These kits include the custom-sized shutter, hinge rail, arms, and necessary hardware. However, you will need to ensure you have the correct tools for drilling into your home’s specific exterior material.
[cite_start]Please note that we cannot guarantee the hurricane rating of the *installation* if we do not perform it, as the anchor depth and fastener type are critical to the shutter holding during a storm[cite: 4].
26. Can Bahama shutters be motorized?
Generally, Bahama shutters are manual operations, but some high-end articulating blade systems can be motorized. However, this is rare and expensive. Most homeowners prefer the simplicity of the manual telescoping arms.
If you need push-button convenience, we recommend looking into our Motorized Rolldown Shutters or Hurricane Screens, which are designed specifically for automation.
27. Do Bahama shutters rattle in the wind?
Properly installed Bahama shutters should not rattle. They are held rigid by the telescoping arms when open and locked tight against the wall when closed. If you hear rattling, it usually means a set screw needs tightening or the arm pins are worn.
The “Bertha” system uses robust framing components that reduce flex and noise compared to cheaper, thinner aluminum brands often found online.
28. Can I put Bahama shutters on a door?
You cannot put a standard Bahama shutter on a door because the bottom-out swing would block you from walking through the doorway. For doors, we recommend Colonial Shutters (which open sideways like a door) or Accordion shutters.
However, Bahama shutters are often placed on the windows of a door (like a French door) if the door is rarely used, though this is a niche application. Consult with us for the best solution for your entryways.
29. What is the lead time for ordering Bahama shutters?
Lead times vary by season, but typically range from 4 to 8 weeks for custom manufacturing. During the peak of hurricane season (August-September), lead times can increase significantly due to high demand.
We manufacture many components locally and work with regional distributors to keep wait times as short as possible. We always recommend ordering in the “off-season” (winter or spring) to ensure you are protected before the first storm forms.
30. Why should I choose American Hurricane Shutters?
We are a family-owned, disabled-owned business operating since 2007, with thousands of satisfied customers across the Carolinas. We don’t just sell shutters; we live in the hurricane zone and understand the local architecture and weather patterns.
We are fully insured with $2,000,000 in umbrella coverage and are members of the Wilmington-Cape Fear HBA. When you choose us, you get expert advice, precise installation, and products like the Bertha HV and Town & Country systems that are proven to last. View our past projects to see the quality of our work.
