Hurricane Protection FAQs

General questions, detailed answers, and relevant sources.
What to do in case a hurricane approaches?
North Atlantic Hurricane Season.
From: June 1st.
Until: November 30th.
Have you thought about how to get your property ready for the hurricane season?
You can contact us to get a free in site quotation and clarify all your doubts about the different products we offer to keep your openings protected, and which options best suits your home.
Helpful Sources:
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US Department of Defense:
https://www.defense.gov/Spotlights/Hurricane-Preparedness/ -
Florida Department of Environmental Protection (Check List):
https://floridadep.gov/sites/default/files/Hurricane%20Preparedness%20Checksheet508Compliant.pdf -
Florida Division of Emergency Management (FDEM): https://www.floridadisaster.org
https://www.floridadisaster.org/planprepare/preparing-for-hurricane-season/ -
Alert Florida (FDEM's alert system):
https://apps.floridadisaster.org/alertflorida/ -
Florida Department of Health Hurricane and Severe Weather Information:
http://www.floridahealth.gov/programs-and-services/emergency-preparedness-and-response/hurricane/index.html
During an emergency:
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During an active hurricane in your area, you must follow expert advice and guidelines.
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For Emergencies, call 911.
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Evacuate along with local authorities directions.
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Our products will make the best to avoid the wind pressure break through your openings, including possible debris projectiles. Check our products at the DBPR clicking on the brands below.
Getting prepare:
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First, make a plan before hurricane season, and seek the instructions of your location agencies such as firefighters, police, and government. Cities often bring inspections, and independent inspectors can tell which reinforcements your property needs before hurricane season arrives.
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Prepare food for some days and medic kits for each person.
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If you get hurricane certified unit products with our company, you will be able to open certain units from inside the house, so you have emergency exits prepared, being able to make an evacuation plan in case you need to leave seeking expert instructions.
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If you are able to afford a house generator, get one. Otherwise, camping portable power stations, are great alternatives for less than $400.00. Get batteries and lights for each person. Don't use candles or other light sources that need fire to avoid a bigger disaster, but get some to strictly use as the last resource once the hurricane emergency has ceased.
National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration:
Track active hurricanes online,
National weather system:
Hurricane Categories,
https://www.weather.gov/mfl/saffirsimpson.
The following YouTube video link is meant to let viewers get a better idea on how to get prepared:
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We recommend always seeking professionals instructions and advice. During an Emergency, Call 911.
The State Assistance Information Line at 800-342-3557 can provide an additional resource for those in Florida to receive accurate and up-to-date information regarding any emergencies.

Where do I check my county regulations on hurricane protection products?
You can find this information directly at your corresponding tax district, County or City website.
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Call directly to your corresponding tax district county or city building division for advice.
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You can always identify your tax district in your summary appraiser public records at through the Florida Department of Revenue, by looking at it on your county's property appraiser summary, by address search.
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You can get your corresponding county by zip-code at: Florida Surplus Lines Service Office website (FSLSO).
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Once you know your tax district, go to your tax district County or City website.
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Then, open the corresponding link from your county/city link from the following State of Florida official websites:
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Main county and cities websites list: https://www.stateofflorida.com/cities-by-county/
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Official County Websites: https://openmyfloridabusiness.gov/county-websites/
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Alternatively, you can check for the same information using an interactive map at: https://www.beycome.com/blog/property-tax-number-florida/.
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Where can shutters be installed?
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Hurricane shutters are all exterior mounted.
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They are normally installed at low-height buildings (1-6 floors), balconies, rooftops, and any other site where you can close them easily and with no risks. For higher buildings and windows that cannot be opened at a high level, impact windows or electric roll down shutters are better options.
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Panels can be installed from the first to the second floor.
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Roll Down Shutters from the first floor and ahead, ideal for commercial establishments.
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Accordion Shutters from the first floor and ahead as long as it can be operated with no risks.
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Accordion shutters, panels, and roll-down shutters can be installed over bars, making what we call a build-out. It will increase its cost due to material, and labor.
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If the bars have enough space, the accordion shutter can be installed inside the bars.
If the client prefers, we can remove the bars, which have a lower cost than the built-out to retire the bars. -
In some cases, for storm panels and roll-down shutters, it may be necessary to remove the bars, and it is as well the most advisable option due to labor, cost, and materials.
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Accordion shutters can be installed at garages, transforming the lower track into a bump (It is cars' wheels safe).
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On the other hand, we can install the lower track of a garage door entrance, so that it is part of the floor making what we call a built-in track. It increases the cost due to installation labor.
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Build-in tracks are also advisable for main entrances or long openings such as sliding doors or terrace-alike structures. On the other hand, lower tracks can be removable, which means that they can be stored and screwed back on the floor.
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At close coast locations with a prepared aluminum alloy for salty weather.
Will the lower track be an obstacle on entrances?
No.
The lower track for entrances is normally made with a low bump shape to walk over it, but in special cases, it can be installed so that it is easily removable or installed as part of the floor.
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The best option will be performed for installation, depending on the installation setting requirements.
In what blade section is the accordion shutter's locker located?
Locks are strategically located by our installation team for manufacture.
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Accordion shutters can be locked from the interior, exterior, or both sides of an opening.
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If the locker system is placed from the interior section facing the wall, the user simply needs to open the window, or similar opening, and close the accordion shutter.
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The Florida Building Code require, in the possibility of an emergency, an emergency exit operable from the interior, Including the Garage Door, or first floors.
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Locks installed inside the device mechanism have a keyless mechanism to be used.
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You can open it similarly as if you had a key.
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Higher than the first floor, locks are required inside the accordion mechanism. At least it is a Fixed Window.
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For doors, sliding doors, and similar openings, there is a type of lock that can be used from both sides. An egress lock.
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Accordion shutter locks can be placed along the blade height and joints structure.
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The placement depends on how the opening unit opens.
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The accordion lock is going to be located where you can reach it comfortably. The fastest and easiest way the user could manipulate the accordion mechanism. For example:
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If a window opens from the bottom side, it will be placed in the lower section of the structure.
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If a window opens from either side, it will be placed on that section of the structure.
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My shutters have become noisy over time. What should I do now?
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Retracted blades by their own will slide along the rails if your unit lacks of stoppers.
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Make sure to place the stoppers, clips, or band, after each use.
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Make sure to place the stoppers/clips close to the blades as much as possible, and that the blades are tight enough.
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If your Accordion Shutters have pins, make sure the pin is well tighten.
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Contact us if there are lost stoppers or clippers to replace them.
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All Clippers and Stoppers are standard, so any other should work properly if gotten from a verified home improvement retailer store (Such as Lowes, or Home Depot, even From Online Stores).
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Remember to remove the clippers and save them inside your property when making use of your units.
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This could also mean the unit is in the need of maintenance.
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It normally happens due to lack of care and attention.
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Be aware that lack of maintenance can void our given warranty.
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On the other hand, If a unit still sounds too much, you may need further assistance.
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Contact your manufacturer.
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Why to contract a company and not installing the storm panels by myself?
Totally fair question — especially if you're dealing with a one-story home or smaller openings. But here’s the thing: while it can be a DIY job, there are a bunch of solid reasons why having a professional handle it might actually save you time, money, and a lot of headaches in the long run.
First off, when you hire a company like ours, you're getting people who do this all the time. We know how to install storm panels correctly, safely, and in full compliance with Florida Building Code standards. We even work along with your HOA for free to comply with aesthetic guidelines and keep your community appearance. That means no guesswork — just proper protection. Plus, our panels are hurricane-certified, tested, and registered, so you know they’ll actually hold up in a serious storm (not just some look-alike products that won’t perform under pressure, these are registered products that have passed testing and were certified for hurricane protection).
Then there’s the efficiency factor. Let’s be real: installing panels is no joke. It’s physical work, especially if you're dealing with awkward sizes, ladders, or tricky corners, even for single story homes with not too many windows, or standard sizes, they are heavy. Perhaps most hurricanes pass during nighttime. We get in, get the job done right, and you don’t have to spend your weekend wrestling with sharp metal blades and figuring out which screw goes where, and then figuring out next year why your panel blades do not align each other because you forgot to label them in groups. We also know how to handle non-standard walls and tricky installations — something most homeowners don’t want to deal with.
Safety is a big one too. Even if it's just one story, lifting heavy panels, using power tools, and working on ladders all come with risks. Our team is trained, insured, and properly equipped. No one wants to end up injured right before hurricane season.
And speaking of insurance — our work comes with warranties on both parts and labor. So if something goes wrong? We’ve got your back. If you do it yourself, you’re taking on 100% of that risk — not just damage, but also potential issues with repairs, replacements, or even HOA violations if something’s installed "incorrectly" within their jurisdiction.
Now, can you do it yourself? Absolutely — especially if you're handy, have the right tools, and don’t mind the time commitment, and carrying it all by yourself.
But just keep in mind:
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There’s a learning curve if it’s your first time.
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You’ll need to source the correct certified materials. Call your City or County to verify by Florida Number.
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Mistakes can cost more than just money — they can compromise your home’s safety.
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Most importantly: there’s no 10-year warranty on DIY jobs, just the trust you have placed on yourself.
Also, a lot of people don’t think about the ongoing hassle of panels anymore. Every season, you’ve got to install them, remove them, store them, and hope you’re around when the storm hits. Some people still think wooden panels are okay, but they’re only allowed as a last resort. On top of that, dealing with HOA pressure after a false alarm (which isn’t bad, just time-consuming) is no fun after some days of work.
That’s why many homeowners eventually switch to accordion shutters — you just slide them closed, lock them, and done. Super simple, low maintenance, and no sharp edges to worry about. Some even mix and match: rollers for big spaces like terraces, some even with controllers, accordions for windows, and panels for small bathroom openings — it’s all about finding the right balance between protection and budget.
And just so you know, Florida law now supports you 100% — private entities like HOAs must allow the installation of certified and registered storm protection products like ours (check out CS/HB 293 – 2024). That means you’ve got the legal right to protect your home and family, as long as you’re using approved materials, and comply with their requested options from the available colors.
So in the end, it all comes down to what your time, energy, and peace of mind are worth. If you're the type who loves a good DIY project, and you’re ready to take it on — awesome. Just make sure you’re well-informed, and even consider applying for an Owner/Builder Permit so your install can be inspected and approved by the city.
But if you'd rather skip the stress and make sure your home’s protected the right way from the start — hiring the pros is 100% the way to go.
Galvanized, Aluminum, or Polycarbonate Panels?
Galvanized Steel Panels
Impact Resistance: 🏆 Best of the three.
Fire/UV Resistance: ✅ Fireproof and UV unaffected.
Code Compliance: ✅ Approved for HVHZ (High-Velocity Hurricane Zones like Miami-Dade).
Corrosion Resistance: ⚠️ Must be stored and handled properly to avoid damage to the galvanized coating, which protects against rust.
Weight: ⚠️ Heaviest of the three — requires stronger handling and support during installation.
✅ BEST for hurricane shutters according to FBC standards.
Aluminum Panels
Impact Resistance: ✅ Very good, slightly less than steel.
Fire/UV Resistance: ✅ Fireproof and UV unaffected.
Code Compliance: ✅ Approved for HVHZ with proper NOA.
Corrosion Resistance: 🏆 Excellent in coastal/salt air environments.
Weight: ✅ Lightweight and easier to handle on-site.
✅ Excellent balance of performance, corrosion resistance, and ease of use.
Polycarbonate Panels (Clear Panels)
Impact Resistance: ✅ Good, but depends on thickness and proper mounting.
Fire/UV Resistance: ⚠️ Requires UV coating; not fire-rated.
Code Compliance: ⚠️ Non HVHZ (High-Velocity Hurricane Zones like Miami-Dade).
Corrosion Resistance: ✅ Will not rust or corrode.
Weight: ✅ Lightweight and easy to install.
⚠️ Best used for visibility (e.g., one or two panels), or small units, not full-home protection.
Which panels should I use at the coast?
Aluminum panels, due to natural resistance to corrosion.
I would like a custom color on my product, do you have that option?
Outstanding sample colors availability depends on the possibility that a manufacturer has that particular color out of any company samples, you may have a unique color/design to choose from. And this may impact the unit pricing.
What does the construction term "opening" mean?
I. The structure component where the product to be opened is going to be installed.
II. Referred from the phrase "Open Construction" where a building component is manufactured in such a way that all portions can be readily inspected at the installation site without disassembly or destruction.
For example:
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Any kind of structure where a window or entrance door is located (Not the window or the door, just the wall section ehre it is installed).
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Any kind of construction such as balconies, terraces, or other kind of similar structures are considered "Openings" as well.
How many times will you check the measures?
As a good practice and to assure quality service, two times.
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We want to assure all measures are correct for the issuance of any order and project.
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First time: A seller will visit you, so we can give an estimated price including labor, taxes, permit, etc.
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Those measures are taken to get them adjusted to the product you are asking for, which means your product final measures will never be the same ones as the ones your openings have.
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Second time:
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After singing the respective agreement, a knowledgeable installer associate retakes the measures of all the openings, so that there are any issues at the moment the product is being built, with enough margin to make in-site adaptations when needed.
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Rarely, if a space is too complex, the seller may need advice of a contractor or installer.
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Why do the measures taken are bigger than my openings?
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For safety reasons:
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As a matter of fact, all hurricane protection products, need to be wider in order to be attached to the wall on the establishment's exterior of the correspondent opening to avoid accidents during emergencies while the unit products are not in use.
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The Department of Business, and Professional Regulations and the Florida Building Code, state to install these kinds of products over a specific distance from the opening frame and trimming.
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Esthetic reasons.
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In order to provide a high quality installation, the products must not interfere with the inner side of the openings, ending in an esthetic frame shape, matching the borders as needed.
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Accordion Shutters:
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In order for your products to be safe, they need additional space on their upper, bottom, left, and right sides to let a view free of obstacles without losing vision when the mechanism is not being used
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The accordion blades mechanism need more space at its left and right sides so that they can extend when needed.
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Depending on the weight, it needs more space at a height, so the screws are installed on the wall far from the opening edges, avoiding over time cracks.
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The space given will always depend on the opening size and locker location.
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Roll Down Shutters:
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In order for your products to be safe, they need additional space on their upper, bottom, left, and right sides to let a view free of obstacles without losing vision when the mechanism is not being used.
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The roll down needs space at the upper side, where the roll of blades and motor (if electric) is stored until be needed, and at the bottom and sides for the rails free rolling as well to get a secure lock.
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Aluminum Panels:
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All panel types have tracks, which take space at the upper and bottom side of the opening that allows making an easier and safer installation.
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In general, these kinds of products need a wide space where the pressure of the projectile applied to it is spread, stopping the projectile to burst through the opening, avoiding high wind pressures to enter the establishment.
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For more related information: https://www.cga.ct.gov/2006/rpt/2006-r-0645.htm.
Are your shutters installed in the exterior or the interior?
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Shutters for hurricane protection are exterior wall mounting products.
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Proceeding installing for exterior wall mounting, as interior wall mounting products will endanger the lives of those who attempt to take shelter during a hurricane disaster.
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Our hurricane protection products are strictly exterior wall mounting structures, which means they have to be installed outside the opening and around the opening, on the wall, not interfering with the window, door, or any other structure installed within the opening, and installed according to the mechanism they are built, with the requested method they must be installed to accomplish the Florida Building Code rules of safety regulations.
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Such a fact must be backed up with a Notice of Acceptance (A DBPR Registry), stating that your products are up to the task and ready to be used at any moment.
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Accordion shutters, roll-down shutters, panels, between others, are designed for exterior usage only and cannot be installed at the interior side of any opening that contain an exposed structure.
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Be aware of scams and wrong procedures. Avoid interior mounting shutters for hurricane protection to protect an existing structure, such as a glass window, or any other applicable structure.
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Just ask your selves, what about the window/door. Is it still exposed to harsh weather?
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Interior mounting products are merely decorative, and do not represent a valid protection as windows and entrances get exposed to the high air velocities during hurricane level disasters.
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This is different from installing, by exception, on the exterior within the opening frame, due to the opening structure difficulties, or installing in the interior of an opening with no structure in between, such as terraces, a Lanai, or others that apply.
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Do aluminum shutters resist the coast's salty wind?
Yes. Aluminum shutters are naturally resistant to salty weather.
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Aluminum doesn’t rust like steel does — it forms a thin layer of aluminum oxide that protects it from further corrosion.
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Most hurricane shutters are made from marine-grade or powder-coated aluminum, which adds even more protection against salt spray and moisture.
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Many manufacturers specifically design aluminum shutters for coastal use, and they’re often rated for HVHZ zones like Miami-Dade and Broward.
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Rust is a type of corrosion, typically associated with iron and steel, which results from oxidation.
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Corrosion is the broader process through which various materials, both metals and non-metals, degrade due to chemical reactions with their environment, often involving oxygen and moisture.
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Rust specifically refers to the oxidation of iron or steel when exposed to air and water.
Which kind of shutters need maintenance?
All of them, every six months (twice a year); before and after hurricane season.
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Avoiding proper maintenance will damage the joints of any kind of product, regardless of the brand, which will have a long-term impact on the units, affecting its warranty, and finally, your safety.
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Even windows need to be clean and oiled from time to time.
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If your shutters are damaged due to lack of maintenance, your warranty is voided.
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How to give maintenance to my hurricane protection products?
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Using a hose or some gloves, clean the rails, so that they close with no obstacles, and let it dray.
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Make sure to apply silicon spray lubricant where needed, as wheels, rails, and joints, so that they move fluently and produce less moving sound.
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For accordion shutters, contact us in case you have lost any rail clips.
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For panels, make sure you have all the thumbscrews ready.
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If you have lost some thumbscrews, contact us for better support, or bring a sample to your closest hardware store.
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Additionally, save a photo and record the size of one of the thumbscrews, so you can find similar ones at any hardware store during an emergency at any moment.