How to Install DIY Accordion Hurricane Shutters for Storm Protection

DIY Accordion Hurricane Shutters: Protect Your Home with Easy Installation

Introduction

Hurricane season can bring devastating damage to homes. Still, there are precautions homeowners can take to protect their property and loved ones. Installing permanent hurricane shutters is one of the best ways to prepare for potential storms. DIY installation is a cost-effective option. This guide focuses on installing permanent accordion hurricane shutters that fold horizontally from the middle and fit over windows and glass doors. 

What are Accordion Hurricane Shutters and Why You Need Them

Accordion hurricane shutters are made of durable materials like aluminum or PVC boards and provide long-lasting protection against high winds, flying debris, and water infiltration. The panels fold like an accordion to make them easy to store when not in use. When a storm approaches, you can quickly deploy them over your windows or glass doors by sliding the panels along tracks mounted above and below each opening. 

These shutters are highly effective at protecting homes from damage caused by hurricanes, making them a popular choice for homeowners in areas prone to severe weather. Proper installation can provide peace of mind knowing that your home is secure even during extreme weather conditions. 

Benefits of DIY Installation

Installing DIY accordion hurricane shutters is a significant step on your hurricane prep checklist, ensuring your home stays safe and dry during the worst storms. A substantial advantage of DIY installation is cost-effectiveness; you don’t have to pay for professional installation labor costs. Accordion hurricane shutters cost from $15 to $25 per square foot installed, so any amount you pay below that is savings.

You can check with your homeowners’ insurance company to see if installing these shutters would get you a premium discount.

Moreover, with DIY installations, there’s less waiting time since professionals may be booked up well before hurricane season arrives. Additionally, you’ll gain vital skills such as measuring window openings accurately while fitting shutter frames properly into place using hand tools like socket wrenches, power drills/tape measures in combination with more traditional tools such as hammers/screwdrivers, etc., which will come in handy later on. 

Types of Accordion Hurricane Shutters and How to Choose the Best One

Hurricane protection is crucial for homeowners living in areas prone to severe storms. In addition to property damage, hurricanes can cause loss of life, and it’s essential to ensure that your home is adequately protected before the storm season arrives. Permanent hurricane shutters offer peace of mind knowing that you’ve taken all necessary precautions to protect your home from potential damage. 

While many types of hurricane shutters are available, accordion-style shutters are both practical and easy to use. Investing in these shutters can save you thousands of dollars in repair costs and prevent significant stress should a hurricane make landfall. 

Shutters protected this house on Galveston Bay during Hurricane Ike in 2008.

How to Make and Install Accordion Hurricane Shutters Yourself

Aluminum Panels or PVC Boards

Preparation: Organize the storm shutter pieces and measure your windows and top track before installation. Installing DIY hurricane shutters is a great step on your hurricane prep checklist, ensuring your home stays safe and dry. 

The first DIY accordion hurricane shutters material is aluminum panels or PVC boards. Both materials are durable, lightweight, and resistant to weather conditions. 

Aluminum panels come in different thicknesses, ranging from .018-inch to .050 inches for maximum strength. PVC boards are typically ⅝ inch thick and can withstand harsh environments. 

Before purchasing either material, take precise measurements of your windows or glass doors. Ensure the measurements are accurate to avoid gaps between the shutter panel/board and the window frame. 

Hinges and Screws

Tools: You will need a

• level,
• socket wrench,
• power drill,
• drill bits,
• tape measure, and a
• caulking gun.

Supplies required include

• silicone caulk,
• anchor screws, and a
• hurricane shutter kit. 

After selecting the best material for your accordion shutters’ panels/boards per your preference & budget, it’s time to consider hinges & screws that match the panel/board chosen. Hinges serve as an attachment point between the shutter panel/board and the window frame. 

You can choose from various hinge types, such as butt hinges or piano hinges. Screws are necessary hardware that secures hinges to both panels/boards & frames of windows/glass doors, similar to locking mechanisms, so choose them wisely according to strength & durability standards. 

Locking Mechanisms and Tracks

This guide focuses on installing permanent hurricane shutters. 

Your DIY accordion hurricane shutters’ last material is locking mechanisms and tracks. Locking mechanisms provide security to your shutter panels/boards and protect your home from high winds and flying debris. 

Tracks are installed at the top and bottom of the window frame to guide the panel/board’s movement while opening or closing them. Choosing locking mechanisms that are easy to operate, secure, and can withstand harsh weather conditions is essential. 

Choose tracks made of heavy-duty materials such as aluminum or stainless steel. The tracks must be secured to the window frame using anchor screws that penetrate deep into the wall studs for maximum strength. 

Measuring and Cutting the Panels/Boards to Size

Measuring the Window/Door Opening

Before cutting the panels or boards to size, you need to measure your window or door opening accurately. Use a tape measure to get the exact dimensions of your window or door. 

Ensure to measure width and height and account for any obstructions, such as handles or locks. Write down these measurements on a piece of paper. 

Cutting the Panels/Boards to Fit

Cut your aluminum panels or PVC boards using a saw using your recorded measurements. Make sure the cuts are straight to fit perfectly into the window or door opening. Sand any rough edges after cutting each panel/board. 

It would be best if you double-checked all measurements before cutting anything. Cutting too much off can result in gaps between panels/boards, and more material will be needed to fit correctly. 

Sanding and Finishing the Edges

After cutting all of your panels/boards to size, use sandpaper to smooth out any rough edges from the cuts. This ensures that no sharp edges could cause injury during installation or use. You can also choose to paint or finish your panels/boards at this time if desired. Still, waiting until after the installation is recommended so any necessary finish touch-ups are not damaged during the final installation. 

Installing DIY accordion hurricane shutters is an effective way of preparing for hurricane season while saving money. The process requires careful planning and accurate measurement before cutting each panel/board for proper installation. 

Installing Hinges and Tracks

Preparation and Tools:

Before beginning the installation process for your DIY accordion hurricane shutters, organizing the storm shutter pieces and measuring your windows and top track is essential. Doing so will help ensure you have all the necessary supplies for installation. You will need tools such as a level, socket wrench, power drill, drill bits, tape measure, and a caulking gun. 

Marking Drill Holes on Panels/Boards

Marking drill holes on panels or boards is essential in installing hinges and tracks. Measure the distance between each hole using tape to ensure they are spaced evenly apart. Use a pencil or marker to mark where each hole should be drilled on the panel/board and frame. 

Installing Hinges on Panels/Boards

Once you have marked where each hole should go, use a power drill with an appropriately sized drill bit to create holes in the panel/board and frame. Place anchors inside the drilled holes before attaching hinges with screws. Test that each hinge is securely attached by opening and closing each panel/board. 

Installing Tracks on Window/Door Frames

The next step in installing DIY accordion hurricane shutters is mounting tracks onto window/door frames using anchors screw-in holes previously drilled into the frame. Use a leveler during this process to ensure tracks are installed straightly across frames. Attach nylon rollers from shutter kits onto panels/boards, which will slide along tracks when set up before hurricanes. 

Locking Mechanisms Installation

Installing Locks on Each Panel/Board

Once the hinges and tracks are installed, the next step is to install locking mechanisms on each panel/board. These locks will ensure that when the accordion hurricane shutters are closed, they stay shut and protect your home from hurricanes. 

Before installing the locks, ensure you position them at a height where they can easily be reached but are secure. To install the locks, use a drill bit to make holes on either side of each panel/board where you want to attach them. 

Insert anchor screws into these holes and tighten them with a socket wrench. Then attach the lock onto these screws using bolts or screws provided in your hurricane shutter kit. 

Testing the Locks for Security

After installing all of the locks on each panel/board, testing them for security before leaving them permanently installed is essential. Test each lock by engaging it as if closing your accordion hurricane shutters during a storm. 

Close each panel/board and engage its lock; try to push or pull it away from its position, and make sure that nothing moves or wobbles. This process will give you confidence in knowing that your accordion hurricane shutters will protect against strong winds and secure against break-ins. 

Locking mechanisms are essential in ensuring that your accordion hurricane shutters provide maximum protection during hurricanes while keeping your home safe from intruders during other times of the year. Take time with their installation process so you can know that everything is correctly set up before storm season hits. 

Painting or Finishing Touches

Choosing a Paint Color or Finish Type

Now that your DIY accordion hurricane shutters are cut to size, hinged, and ready to be installed, it’s time to consider what finish is best. Painting and staining are two of the most common finish types available. A paint finish will provide a protective layer against the elements. 

Choose a color that complements your home’s exterior or blends in with the surrounding environment. Staining is another option to showcase natural wood grain while protecting it from moisture and harsh weather conditions. 

When selecting a finish type for your DIY accordion hurricane shutters, consider each product’s durability. A high-quality paint or stain will withstand severe storms and last many years without fading or degrading in other ways. 

Painting or Staining the Panels/Boards

You can apply paint or stain with your panels/boards sanded smooth and debris-free. Cover all surfaces thoroughly with multiple coats of paint or stain using a brush and/or roller until you achieve smooth, even coverage. 

Remember that painting DIY accordion hurricane shutters can take longer than anticipated due to the several panels/boards needed for each window or door opening. Allow ample drying time between coats because premature handling could cause smudging or streaks on the finished surface. 

Sealing any Gaps with Caulk

Before installing your new DIY accordion hurricane shutters over windows and doors, check for gaps between the shutter frame and adjoining wall surfaces. If gaps exist, fill them with silicone caulk using a caulking gun until all openings are tightly sealed. 

Caulking is also a barrier against moisture intrusion during violent rainstorms commonly associated with hurricanes. Ensure you use caulk explicitly formulated for outdoor applications known for its water and weather-resistant properties. 

Maintenance Tips for DIY Accordion Hurricane Shutters

Cleaning Tips for Longevity

Accordion hurricane shutters are permanent fixtures designed to protect your home from the damaging effects of hurricanes. Proper maintenance is necessary to ensure they remain functional and provide optimal protection in a storm. One essential aspect of maintaining your shutters is cleaning them regularly. 

Cleaning your accordion hurricane shutters involves removing debris, dirt, and other accumulated materials that can compromise the functionality of your shutters. To clean your accordion hurricane shutters, you will need a ladder or step stool to access the upper parts of the shutter system. 

Use a soft-bristled brush or cloth to remove debris from each panel’s surface, starting at the top and working downward. Avoid using abrasive cleaners, which can damage the finish on aluminum panels or PVC boards. 

Inspect Regularly for Damage

As vital as cleaning is, regular inspections are necessary to ensure that your accordion hurricane shutters function correctly. Inspect every part of your shutter system regularly for signs of wear and tear, especially before and after each hurricane season. Check all bolts, tracks, and hinges for any rusting or damage. 

Inspecting your accordion hurricane shutters could help you detect any potential issues before they become significant problems in the event of a storm. During an inspection, replace the damaged parts immediately if you notice any problems, such as dents in aluminum panels or cracks on PVC boards. 

Replacing Damaged Parts

Suppose an inspection reveals damaged components within your accordion hurricane shutter system that require replacement; acting quickly before the next storm hits is essential. Replacing damaged parts ensures that you maintain optimal protection against powerful winds and rain. Replacing parts may involve removing bolts or loosening screws; thus, having tools such as wrenches and drills on hand is essential. 

The process may require a professional’s assistance, especially if you need more clarification about the damage’s extent and how to perform the replacement. With proper maintenance, your DIY accordion hurricane shutters can provide an extended period of reliable protection, ensuring your home stays safe and dry during hurricane season. 

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Conclusion

Hurricane season can be stressful for homeowners in high-risk areas, but learning how to install DIY accordion hurricane shutters is a significant step on your hurricane prep checklist, ensuring your home stays safe and dry. The benefits of this type of permanent protection are numerous, and the process is easier than expected. By preparing now, you can avoid last-minute rush orders and long wait lists for professional installation. 

Summary of Benefits of DIY Accordion Hurricane Shutters

Accordion hurricane shutters are permanent structures that fold out horizontally from the middle. They fit over windows and glass doors, providing extra protection against high winds, debris, and water damage during a hurricane. 

Not only do these shutters provide peace of mind during the storm season, but also, in some cases, might lower insurance premiums. The main benefit of opting for DIY installation is cost-effectiveness. 

Professional shutter installation can be costly depending on the size and number of windows or doors you must cover. By installing yourself using basic tools such as a level, socket wrench, power drill, drill bits, tape measure, and caulking gun, among others laid out in the preparation section above, you save money while ensuring that your home has adequate protection. 

Encouragement to Protect Homes from Hurricanes

Living in areas prone to natural disasters like hurricanes can be scary, with so much uncertainty around when the next big one will hit. However, being proactive by taking measures such as installing accordion hurricane shutters gives homeowners control over what happens when it does hit, ensuring that their property is adequately protected. 

Texas Tech has a collection of wind protection measures to protect your family and property.

Call-to-Action to Start Building Your Own

Suppose you live in coastal regions prone to hurricanes or tropical storms. In that case, adequate protection is crucial for peace of mind during storm season. As outlined above, accordion hurricane shutters are an excellent option for homeowners seeking permanent protection from high winds, flying debris, and water damage. 

Supplies needed include silicone caulk, anchor screws, and a hurricane shutter kit. With the instructions outlined in this article, you can easily begin your DIY project today to ensure your home is protected when the storm comes knocking. 

A less expensive (about $3 sq. ft.) but not as effective alternative is security window film. Rolls come about 30″ wide.