Hurricane shutters protect your home from storm damage and can even save on insurance premiums. Here's a breakdown of costs and options to help you budget effectively.

Average Costs

| Expense | Cost Range |
|---------------------|---------------------------|
| Shutters (Materials) | $2–$60 per square foot |
| Labor Costs | $45–$100 per hour |
| Permit Fees | $50–$200 |

For a 7-square-foot window, total costs (materials + labor) typically range from $80 to $520, depending on the shutter type.

Cost by Shutter Type

| Shutter Type | Material Cost | Cost (Per 7 ft² Window) |
|--------------------------|-------------------|-----------------------------|
| Accordion Shutters | $15–$30/ft² | $150–$320 |
| Roll-Down Shutters | $25–$60/ft² | $220–$520 |
| Bahama Shutters | $20–$35/ft² | $185–$345 |
| Colonial Shutters | $25–$35/ft² | $220–$345 |
| Storm Panels | $10–$20/ft² | $115–$240 |
| Fabric Storm Shutters| $5–$50/ft² | $80–$205 (temporary) or $320+ (permanent) |
| Plywood (Temporary) | $2–$6/ft² | $15–$45 |

Key Cost Factors

• Material:
• Metal: Durable but costly and heavy.
• Plastic/Polycarbonate: Lightweight and transparent.
• Fabric: Flexible, easy to install, and affordable.

• Wood/Plywood: Budget-friendly but less durable.

• Window Size: Larger windows require more material, increasing the cost.

• Location: Installing shutters on upper floors adds labor costs.

• Timing: Installing during hurricane season may be more expensive due to higher demand.

• Number of Windows: More windows increase overall material and labor expenses.

Benefits of Hurricane Shutters

• Increased Home Value:

• Especially in hurricane-prone areas, shutters are a sought-after feature.

• Insurance Savings:

• Can lower premiums by 8–10% in hurricane zones.

• Protection:

• Shields windows from debris and reduces storm damage risks.

DIY vs. Professional Installation

• DIY Costs:
• Materials-only costs range from $2 to $50 per square foot.

• Best for lightweight shutters like fabric or plywood.

• Hiring a Pro:

• Costs more but ensures proper installation, especially for heavy-duty materials like steel or roll-down shutters.

Tip: Incorrectly installed shutters may fail during a storm, so consider professional help for complex projects.

Tips to Save Money

• Off-Season Installation:

• Install in winter or early spring to avoid seasonal price surges.

• Shop Around:

• Get multiple quotes from contractors to find the best price.

• Consider Alternatives:

• Temporary solutions like plywood are cheaper but less durable.

• Focus on Key Areas:

• If the budget is tight, prioritize windows on windward-facing walls.

Investing in hurricane shutters offers safety, peace of mind, and potential financial savings in hurricane-prone areas. Whether you choose budget-friendly plywood or high-end roll-down shutters, proper planning ensures you're storm-ready!

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