Question 1

When is the best time to get my shutters installed?

Accepted Answer

The optimal time for shutter installation is during home construction so they integrate seamlessly into the design. For existing homes without shutters, installation should occur as soon as feasible. Hurricane season runs from June 1st through November 30th, and installation companies experience high demand during this period. Never delay installation until a hurricane watch has been issued for your area. If you already have shutters installed, conduct testing and maintenance at the beginning of each hurricane season. For permanent shutters, close each unit to verify smooth operation and secure locking. For panel and plywood shutters, test several windows and doors to confirm hardware functionality and estimate installation time. Inspect plywood for warping or damage that could compromise its strength. Address any issues immediately to ensure readiness when severe weather approaches. When a hurricane watch is issued, recheck all hardware and mechanisms, and consider pre-installing the more challenging shutters. Residents in evacuation zones requiring 2 to 3 hours for complete installation should begin during the hurricane watch phase. Those outside evacuation zones should time installation early in the warning phase to avoid working with panels during high winds.

Question 2

How do I get a premium reduction in my home insurance?

Accepted Answer

Request a storm mitigation application from your insurance company. An approved professional must complete this form. After the product undergoes inspection and the completed application is submitted, you qualify for a discount on your premium.

Question 3

How does the permit process work?

Accepted Answer

After contract execution, homeowners may need to sign required permit documentation. This paperwork, together with appropriate product approvals, is submitted to the local municipality for review. Following approval, a permit is issued for your property. The permit must be posted at your job site before installation begins. After installation completion, the municipality is notified to schedule a final inspection. The permit should be displayed prominently for the inspection, typically outside attached to or near the shutters. Once the inspection is approved, the municipality closes the permit.

Question 4

Do I need to have a building permit?

Accepted Answer

A building permit is typically required for hurricane protection installation. However, certain situations may not require a building permit. Your contractor should obtain building permits. Florida statutes (Section 489.103 (7) & 455.277(1)(j)) address owner/builder permits and specify that permits should not be pulled by homeowners who do not intend to perform the work themselves. Homeowners may be held liable for costs related to injuries if the contractor lacks worker's compensation insurance and/or proper licensing.

Question 5

I compared prices and found that Atlantic Storm Protection was more expensive. Why is that?

Accepted Answer

When making price comparisons, it is essential to evaluate equivalent product quality and service levels. Our pricing is competitive when comparing identical products. We position ourselves in the middle of the market, neither the lowest nor the highest priced. We deliver value through our commitment to the highest quality products, professional installation by our qualified and trained technicians who carry insurance, and comprehensive product warranty coverage. We do not use subcontractors for any of our installations.

Question 6

How should I compare which hurricane protection is best for me?

Accepted Answer

This represents a substantial investment, so thorough research is essential. Key factors to evaluate when making your selection include building code approvals, your personal installation capabilities, installation requirements, and the visual appearance of the completed installation. We offer a shutter selection matrix to assist you in your decision-making process.

Question 7

Can I install the shutters myself?

Accepted Answer

You may purchase shutters from us for self-installation. However, choosing this option means forfeiting our product warranty. Additionally, self-installation may involve unexpected hidden costs. The cost savings between self-installation and having our professional technicians perform the installation are minimal.

Question 8

Can condominium associations (HOA's) prohibit shutters?

Accepted Answer

In Florida, the answer is no. Florida statute 718.113 (5) requires each residential condominium board of administration to adopt hurricane shutter specifications for buildings within the association, including color, style, and other relevant factors. All board specifications must comply with applicable building codes. Boards are prohibited from refusing approval for the installation or replacement of hurricane shutters, impact glass, code-compliant windows or doors, or other code-compliant hurricane protection by unit owners when the installations conform to board-adopted specifications.

Question 9

What if I can't afford hurricane shutters?

Accepted Answer

Plywood shutters represent the most economical window protection method. Proper plywood shutters require exterior grade plywood at least 3/4" thick, which increases weight but enhances safety. Shutters should be cut to fit the exterior of the opening with adequate edge distance, secured on all sides using appropriate hardware, installed before hurricane season, labeled for their designated openings, and stored with their hardware in a dry location. Heat and moisture cause plywood to warp over time, and proper fit is critical for effectiveness. Another budget-friendly approach is purchasing shutters gradually for two or three windows at a time, beginning with the most vulnerable areas. This process should ideally begin well in advance of hurricane season.

Question 10

Should I tape my windows when a hurricane threatens?

Accepted Answer

No. Window taping wastes effort, time, and materials. Tape provides minimal glass reinforcement and no protection against airborne debris. After the storm, you will spend considerable time removing old, weathered tape from your windows. If a hurricane warning is issued and you do not have hurricane shutters, your time is better spent installing protective barriers such as plywood over doors and windows.

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