Storm shutters are essential during a hurricane or strong storms when powerful winds can throw heavy objects at a home's windows. Without these shutters, glass will smash and damage will be caused to the home's interior. You also run the risk of injuries if residents have not been evacuated. Storm shutters remain the most economical solution for most homeowners to protect window openings in a storm, but they also provide shade when the sky remains clear. Most people hire contractors to ensure each shutter is installed properly. Professional installation also eliminates the need for homeowners to purchase costly tools, such as jigsaws, miter saws and planers.
How Much Does It Cost To Install Storm Shutters?
The cost to install storm shutters in your home can vary considerably, depending on your region. Homeowners can expect to pay in the region of about $37,000 on the low end of the spectrum, and this might pay for metal panels on a comparatively small house. Most homeowners, however, can expect to pay in the region of about $44,000 to cover 120 sq ft. Only about $30 goes to fund the hardware, frames, fasteners and miscellaneous supplies, while contractors charge roughly $9,000 for installation labor; they earn around $30 to $80 per hour to perform this task. Around $65 is used to maintain and periodically replace sanders, saws and other necessary equipment.
There are a wide variety of storm shutters available to suit your specific and unique requirements. We highly recommend obtaining multiple quotes from reliable contractors in your region. This will ensure that, not only will you be able to compare prices and get the best value for your money, but also obtain some professional input to learn what the best option for you might be.
Different Shutter Types
Depending on the design and material, some shutters may cost up to three times as much as others. Accordion shutters offer a durable and somewhat less costly alternative. When storms approach, you can pull them out of boxes installed alongside each window.
Metal panels remain affordable yet relatively difficult to install. You might spend more on labor if you choose them while awning and Bahama models are relatively inexpensive and create shade, but they're not as tough. Naturally, automatic roll down units generally provide the most expensive option, especially if they have motors.
Some people pay installation bills as high as $52,000, but you're more likely to spend this amount if you choose a high-end automatic product and have a home with numerous windows. The full cost per square foot ranges from roughly $300 - $450.
Remember, these numbers are only nationwide estimates. Your actual cost to install storm shutters could be considerably different depending on local wages, aluminum or PVC costs, insurance premiums, travel expenses and hardware pricing. Additionally, the severity of storms in your area will affect material expenditures by determining how tough a shutter must be. Homeowners usually need the strongest panels for waterfront properties.
