The Hurricane Shutter Installation Process Explained

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Wondering what it actually looks like to have hurricane shutters installed on your home? From the first phone call to the final walkthrough, American Hurricane Shutters guides you through every step. Here is exactly what to expect.

Step 1: Free In-Home Estimate and Design Pressure Analysis

Every project starts with a free, no-obligation in-home estimate. One of our experienced estimators visits your property, measures every opening, and performs a design pressure analysis to determine the wind load requirements for your specific location. This is not a generic quote — it is a site-specific assessment that ensures your shutters will meet NC and SC building code requirements for your address.

Step 2: Product Selection

Based on your openings, budget, aesthetic preferences, and HOA requirements, we walk you through your product options — accordion shutters, roll-down shutters, Bahama shutters, colonial shutters, storm panels, or hurricane screens. We carry premium brands including Bertha HV, Alutech, and Town and Country, and can show you samples of colors and finishes at your home.

Step 3: Permit Filing

For most installations in NC and SC coastal counties, we file the building permit on your behalf. This typically takes 5 to 15 business days depending on the county. We handle all paperwork, engineering submittals, and coordination with the building department. You do not need to do anything.

Step 4: Custom Fabrication

Once the permit is approved, your shutters are custom-fabricated to the exact measurements taken at your home. Accordion shutters and roll-down shutters are made to order — there are no standard sizes. Lead times are typically 3 to 6 weeks depending on product type and season.

Step 5: Installation Day

Our crew arrives with all materials, tools, and hardware needed for a complete installation. For accordion shutters, this involves mounting the top track and side channels, hanging the accordion panels, and testing full operation. For roll-down shutters, the box housing is mounted above the opening and the curtain is fitted and adjusted. For storm panels, tracks are anchored to the structure and panels are test-fitted. Most residential installations are completed in one day.

Step 6: Final Inspection

For permitted installations, a county building inspector visits to verify the installation meets code. We coordinate this inspection and are on-site to address any questions. In our experience, permitted AHS installations pass inspection on the first visit.

Step 7: Homeowner Walkthrough and Warranty Registration

Before we leave, we walk you through the operation of every shutter — how to open, close, lock, and maintain them. We register your 7-year warranty and leave you with care instructions. From that point forward, your home is protected.

Ready to get started? Call +19102561288 for your free estimate today.

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