1. What are Rolldown hurricane shutters?

Rolldown shutters are retractable aluminum slat systems that roll up into a housing box above the window when not in use and roll down along side rails to lock in place for protection. They operate similarly to a garage door but are engineered specifically for windows and doors.

They are widely considered the most convenient and robust hurricane protection available. With smooth manual operation or motorized options, they can deploy in seconds, offering an immediate shield against high winds, flying debris, and intruders.

2. How much do Rolldown shutters cost?

Manual rated Rolldown shutters typically cost $48 per square foot. If you opt for motorized convenience, the price is the base square footage cost plus approximately $700 per opening for the motor and electrical components.

While they are a higher initial investment compared to Accordion Shutters ($34/sq ft), their ease of use and dual-purpose nature (security and storm protection) offer significant long-term value. Use our Cost Calculator for a specific estimate.

3. Manual vs. Motorized: Which should I choose?

Motorized shutters are the ultimate convenience, allowing you to deploy all your shutters with the push of a button, while manual shutters use a hand crank or strap system. Motorization is ideal for second-story windows, large openings, or for homeowners who want effortless operation.

Manual shutters are more affordable and don’t rely on electricity, making them a reliable choice for easy-to-reach ground floor windows. Many of our customers choose a hybrid approach: motors for hard-to-reach windows and manual cranks for accessible ones.

4. What happens if the power goes out?

All of our motorized Rolldown shutters come with a manual override feature. In the event of a power outage—common during hurricanes in the Cape Fear region—you can still operate the shutter using a hand crank. You are never trapped or left unprotected due to a lack of electricity.

5. Are Rolldown shutters hurricane rated?

Yes, we install Alutech United and Bertha brand Rolldown shutters that are fully rated for High Velocity Hurricane Zones (HVHZ). They are tested to withstand catastrophic wind speeds and the impact of flying debris, meeting the strictest building codes in North and South Carolina.

6. Do Rolldown shutters provide security?

Rolldown shutters are the most effective security shutter on the market. When fully closed and locked, they form a solid wall of double-walled aluminum that is nearly impossible to breach without heavy tools. They are an excellent deterrent against break-ins for vacation homes or businesses.

7. Do they help with energy efficiency?

Yes, Rolldown shutters create a dead-air insulating space between the shutter and the glass, significantly reducing heat transfer. By blocking 99% of solar heat before it enters your home, they can lower your air conditioning costs during our hot Carolina summers and keep heat inside during winter.

8. Can I control them with my smartphone?

Yes, with our modern motor options, we can integrate your shutters into a smart home system. You can control them via an app on your phone, allowing you to close your shutters from anywhere in the world—perfect if a storm approaches while you are out of town.

9. How much noise do they block?

Rolldown shutters are excellent sound barriers, reducing outside noise by up to 50%. If you live near a busy road or in a noisy coastal area, closing your shutters can create a peaceful, quiet interior environment.

10. What colors are available?

We offer a variety of powder-coated colors to match your home’s exterior, including white, bronze, ivory, beige, and gray. The high-quality finish is designed to resist fading and chipping in the harsh salt air environment.

11. How big is the housing box?

The housing box size depends on the height of the window (the taller the window, the more slat roll needs to be stored), but typically ranges from 6 to 12 inches square. We aim to install the smallest box possible to minimize visual impact. The box is mounted above the opening and blends in with the fascia or wall.

12. Can they cover large patio openings?

Yes, Rolldown shutters can span large widths, often up to 16-20 feet depending on the slat rating. For extremely wide lanais or porches, we may use heavy-duty slats or split the opening with a removable mullion. Alternatively, Hurricane Screens are another option for very large spans.

13. Do they block all light?

When fully closed, the slats interlock to block nearly 100% of light, effectively acting as blackout curtains. However, most models have a “vented” position where you can slightly lift the shutter to reveal small perforations between the slats, allowing filtered light and air to enter without fully opening the shutter.

14. How long does installation take?

Professional installation typically takes 2-4 hours per opening depending on the complexity and wiring requirements. Our team at American Hurricane Shutters handles everything, including the electrical hookup coordination for motorized units.

15. How do I maintain Rolldown shutters?

Maintenance involves washing the tracks and slats with water every 3-6 months to remove salt build-up and lubricating the side tracks with a clear silicone spray. It is also important to operate them (up and down) at least once a month to keep the motor and gears active. See our Maintenance Guide for details.

16. Can I install them myself (DIY)?

We do not recommend DIY installation for Rolldown shutters, especially motorized ones. The installation requires precise leveling of the tracks and safe electrical work. Improper installation can lead to the shutter jamming or failing under wind load. We offer professional installation to ensure your warranty remains valid.

17. Do they rust?

The slats and housing are made of high-grade aluminum which does not rust. However, in coastal areas like Wrightsville Beach, salt accumulation can cause oxidation if not rinsed. We use stainless steel fasteners to ensure the mounting hardware lasts as long as the shutter.

18. What is the warranty?

Motors typically carry a 5-year warranty, while the aluminum components and installation are covered by our American Hurricane Shutters warranty. We stand by the quality of the Alutech and Bertha products we install.

19. Can they be installed on second-story windows?

Yes, Rolldown shutters are the safest and most practical solution for second-story windows. Because they can be operated from inside the house (manually or electrically), you don’t need to climb a dangerous ladder to secure your upper floors before a storm.

20. Are they approved by HOAs?

Most HOAs approve Rolldown shutters because the housing box is discreet and can be color-matched to the home. Unlike panels that leave visible tracks, Rolldowns look permanent and finished. We can help provide specs for your Architectural Review Board (ARB).

21. How long is the lead time?

Custom manufacturing typically takes 4 to 8 weeks. This can extend during peak hurricane season. We manufacture and assemble locally where possible to expedite the process.

22. Can I use them for sun control daily?

Absolutely. Many customers use them daily to block the afternoon sun, reducing glare on TV screens and preventing furniture from fading. Their ease of use makes them a functional part of daily life, not just emergency equipment.

23. What brands do you carry?

We primarily install Alutech United and Bertha HV Rolldown systems. These are the gold standards in the industry, known for their compact housing boxes and smooth operation.

24. Can they be installed on doors?

Yes, they are excellent for French doors and sliding glass doors. The side rails are mounted to the wall or door frame. For entry doors, you just need to ensure you have another way to exit the home if the shutter is down.

25. Are they waterproof?

While they are not submarine-tight, they are water-resistant and drastically reduce water intrusion. By stopping the wind pressure and driving rain from hitting the glass seals, they prevent the water leaks common in high-velocity storms.

26. How do they compare to Accordion shutters?

Rolldowns are more convenient (up/down vs. side-to-side) and aesthetic (hidden box vs. visible side stacks), but are more expensive. Accordions are a great budget-friendly alternative for large spans where you don’t mind the visual of the stacked blades.

27. Is there a locking mechanism?

Yes, manual shutters have slide locks on the bottom bar, and motorized shutters have automatic locking gears that engage when the shutter is fully deployed. You do not need to go outside to lock a motorized shutter.

28. Can you service my existing Rolldown shutters?

Yes, American Hurricane Shutters services all major brands. If you have a broken motor, a stuck slat, or a jammed track, give us a call. We can often repair rather than replace.

29. Where to buy Rolldown shutters near me?

We serve the entire coast from Jacksonville, NC to Pawleys Island, SC. Contact us for a free on-site consultation. We bring samples so you can see the quality of the slats and box firsthand.

30. Why choose American Hurricane Shutters?

We are family-owned, disabled-owned, and fully insured with $2M in liability coverage. Since 2007, we have specialized exclusively in hurricane protection. We don’t dabble in windows or siding—we are experts in keeping your home safe. Check out our project gallery to see our work.