Why there are so many types
All hurricane shutters do the same core job: stop wind and flying debris from breaking your windows and doors. The Florida Building Code holds them all to impact and wind standards. The differences are about cost, effort, looks, and speed — how fast you can close them when a storm is coming, and how they look on your house the other 300 days of the year.
Accordion shutters
These fold like an accordion against the sides of the window and slide closed on a track when a storm comes. They stay on your house all year. One person can close a whole house in about 30–60 minutes. Ballpark cost: $20–$30 per square foot installed. Best for: homeowners who want a good middle ground — always there, no storage, moderate price. Learn more on our accordion shutters page.
Roll-down shutters
These roll down from a housing box mounted above the window, like a garage door turned sideways. They are the fastest to close — especially with a motor and remote. They also add shade and a little insulation. Ballpark cost: $25–$40 per square foot installed (manual); motors add more. Best for: anyone who wants the easiest storm prep, second-story windows, or a home they may need to close up in a hurry. See roll-down shutters and motorized systems.
Storm panels
Removable panels — steel, aluminum, or clear polycarbonate — that bolt over your windows using tracks or studs installed around each opening. Cheapest option by far. Ballpark cost: $8–$15 per square foot installed. Best for: tight budgets, renters who own their home but not much cash, or anyone fine with a workout before each storm. You must store them (garage, shed) and put them up each time. See storm panels and our panels vs permanent shutters guide.
Bahama shutters
These look like tropical awnings: they hinge at the top and prop open for shade. Before a storm, you release the props and lock them down over the window. Great curb appeal and year-round shade that can trim cooling bills. Ballpark cost: $30–$45 per square foot installed. Best for: homeowners who want protection that looks good every day. See Bahama shutters.
Colonial shutters
Two panels that look like classic decorative shutters hinged on each side of the window. For storms, you swing them closed and lock them. Beautiful on traditional and colonial-style homes. Ballpark cost: $30–$45 per square foot installed. Best for: curb appeal plus protection on the front of the house; many people mix them with simpler shutters on sides and back. See colonial shutters.
Fabric hurricane screens
Super-strong fabric panels that clip or slide over openings. Very light, fast to put up, and they let some light through. Ballpark cost: $10–$20 per square foot installed. Best for: large openings like lanais and patios, and anyone who wants light storage and easy handling. See fabric hurricane screens.
Side-by-side comparison
Cheapest: storm panels, then fabric screens.
Easiest to close: roll-down (especially motorized), then Bahama.
Best looks year-round: Bahama and colonial.
No storage needed: accordion, roll-down, Bahama, colonial.
Best for big patio openings: fabric screens or roll-down.
How to choose
Start with your budget and your honest answer to one question: how much work will you actually do before a storm? If you will happily spend a Saturday putting up panels, storm panels are a great value. If you travel, are older, or just know you will put it off, a permanent style you can close in minutes is worth the extra cost. Many Orlando homes mix styles — decorative shutters in front, panels or accordions on the sides and back.
Whatever you choose, make sure the product has Florida Product Approval or Miami-Dade NOA. Our Florida Building Code guide explains why that matters.
Still deciding?
Send the free quote form below and tell us about your home — we will walk you through which styles fit your openings, your budget, and how you live, and give you a clear written quote.