Cost Breakdown: Are Accordion Hurricane Shutters Worth The Investment?
As hurricanes become a more frequent and severe threat in certain regions, many homeowners are focusing on how to protect their homes from damage. One effective solution is Accordion Hurricane Shutters, with accordion-style shutters being popular.
However, before deciding, assessing whether these shutters are a worthwhile investment is essential. This article tells about what are Accordion Hurricane Shutters and breaks down the key factors that influence the cost and benefits of accordion hurricane shutters, helping you decide if they offer a good return on investment (ROI) while considering their level of protection.
What Are Accordion Hurricane Shutters?
Accordion hurricane shutters are permanent storm protection installed on windows and doors. They are built from durable materials like aluminum or plastic and designed to fold up like an accordion when not in use.
When a storm approaches, it can be quickly and easily pulled across windows or doors to protect against high winds, flying debris, and heavy rain.
Unlike other types of hurricane protection, such as removable panels or plywood boards, accordion shutters remain in place year-round.
They are mounted on tracks and can be deployed quickly, making them a convenient solution for homeowners who want to ensure they are storm-ready with minimal effort. Their ease of use and strong protection have made Storm Shutters popular in hurricane-prone areas.
The Initial Cost Of Accordion Hurricane Shutters
When determining whether accordion hurricane shutters are a good investment, the initial cost is one of the primary factors to consider. The price of these shutters varies based on several factors, including:
Home Size: Larger homes with more windows and doors require more shutters, impacting the overall expense.
Material Type: The material used in manufacturing the shutters, such as aluminum or plastic, affects both the cost and durability.
Installation: While some homeowners may attempt a DIY installation, professional installation ensures the shutters are securely fitted for optimal protection, adding to the overall expense but potentially saving money on future repairs.
The overall cost is influenced by the number of windows and doors to be covered, the type of materials chosen, and whether professional installation is selected. Although accordion shutters can be a significant upfront investment, they provide long-term protection and convenience.
Maintenance Costs
Accordion hurricane shutters require minimal maintenance compared to other storm protection options. Regular maintenance includes cleaning the shutters, lubricating the tracks, and checking for any signs of wear or corrosion.
Homeowners living in coastal areas, where salty air can accelerate the aging process, may need to pay extra attention to the condition of the shutters.
The homeowner can often do maintenance, but some hire professionals for annual inspections and upkeep.
While this adds a small additional cost, it helps extend the life of the shutters, ensuring they continue to provide reliable protection.
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Protection From Damage
The primary reason for investing in accordion hurricane shutters is their protection against severe storms.
Hurricanes can cause significant damage to homes, including broken windows, roof damage, and water intrusion. Repairing these damages can be costly and time-consuming.
Homeowners can greatly reduce the risk of storm damage by installing accordion shutters. The shutters create a strong barrier around windows and doors, preventing high winds and debris from breaking through.
In many cases, the shutters can pay for themselves by avoiding a single instance of significant storm damage, as repairs to a home after a hurricane can be far more expensive than the cost of the shutters.
Longevity And Durability
Accordion hurricane shutters are built for long-term use and can protect for many years with proper care. Most shutters come with manufacturer warranties, but when maintained properly, they can last well beyond the warranty period.
Regular cleaning and minor maintenance will help keep the shutters in working condition for decades. Another factor that makes accordion shutters a smart investment is their durability.
Compared to other hurricane protection options, such as plywood or roll-down shutters, accordion shutters require fewer repairs and replacements over time.
Other solutions may be temporary or prone to mechanical failures, while accordion shutters are designed to withstand multiple storms over their lifetime.
Resale Value
Installing accordion hurricane shutters can also increase a home’s resale value. In hurricane-prone areas, homes equipped with storm protection are more attractive to potential buyers.
Many homebuyers are willing to pay a premium for homes with hurricane shutters installed, as it offers them added security and peace of mind without the hassle of installing shutters themselves.
For homeowners planning to sell, the investment in accordion shutters may be recouped through a higher selling price.
The added value can make accordion shutters a more attractive option, especially for those in high-risk hurricane zones.
Are They Worth The Investment?
When evaluating whether accordion hurricane shutters are worth the investment, weighing the initial cost against the long-term benefits is essential.
While the upfront expense can be significant, the savings from reduced insurance premiums, minimized storm damage, and increased home value can make accordion shutters a wise financial decision.
Additionally, the peace of mind that comes with knowing your home is protected from severe storms is invaluable.
At Miami Accordion Shutters, we believe that the decision to invest in accordion hurricane shutters goes beyond just financial considerations. The protection they provide for your home and family during hurricane season can’t be quantified.