Rolling Hurricane Shutters: Complete Buying Guide

What Are Rolling Shutters?

Rolling shutters , also called roll-down shutters or roll-up hurricane shutters , are permanently installed protective barriers that coil into a compact housing box above your window or door. When a storm approaches, they unroll vertically along side tracks to create a solid aluminum shield over your openings. They are widely regarded as the premium choice for hurricane protection in Florida and along the Gulf Coast.

Available in both motorized and manual configurations, rolling shutters provide one-touch storm protection that takes seconds to deploy. They are engineered to meet Miami-Dade County's stringent impact-testing standards and satisfy Florida Building Code requirements for hurricane-prone regions.

Motorized vs. Manual Rolling Shutters

Motorized rolling shutters operate with an electric motor controlled by a wall switch, remote control, or even a smartphone app. They are ideal for large openings, second-story windows, and homeowners who want effortless deployment. Manual roll-down shutters use a hand crank or strap system and cost less upfront, making them a budget-friendly alternative that still delivers the same structural protection.

Many homeowners in South Florida choose motorized rolling shutters for convenience, while manual models remain popular for vacation homes and rental properties where simplicity is key.

Key Benefits of Rolling Shutters

Product approvals: Impact ratings and approval coverage depend on the exact product, configuration, dimensions, fasteners, substrate and installation. Confirm the current approval documents for the specific item before relying on it for hurricane protection. Decorative non-impact products are not substitutes for approved impact protection.

Unlike aluminum storm panels that must be stored and manually installed before each storm, rolling shutters are always in place and ready to deploy. Compared to accordion shutters, rolling shutters offer a sleeker aesthetic because the housing box can be recessed or color-matched to your exterior.

How Much Do Rolling Shutters Cost?

Pricing: Shutter cost depends on finished size, product family, hardware, operating method, finish, quantity, freight and installation conditions. Use the catalog prices as examples, then request a custom quote for the current product price and project-specific shipping.

Rolling Shutters vs. Other Hurricane Shutter Types

When comparing rolling shutters to accordion shutters, the main differences are aesthetics and price. Accordion shutters fold to the sides of the window and are more affordable, while rolling shutters disappear into a compact overhead box for a cleaner look. Both meet the same impact ratings.

Aluminum storm panels are the most budget-friendly option but require manual installation and storage space. Bahama shutters add tropical curb appeal and provide shade but may not meet the highest wind-speed ratings. Colonial shutters deliver a classic architectural look and swing closed for storm protection, though they require more exterior wall space.

For homeowners who want the best combination of convenience, aesthetics, and protection, rolling shutters are the top-tier choice.

Installation and Maintenance

Installation time and difficulty depend on the product, opening, wall construction, access and electrical work. Follow the product documents and local requirements. Use a qualified contractor or electrician when the work is outside your experience or local rules require one.

Buy Direct Ordering Rolling Shutters and Save

Empire Shutters serves customers from South Florida and ships products throughout the United States and internationally. Customers complete installation themselves or hire their own contractor or handyman. The office reviews custom dimensions, options and freight before the final order is approved.

Questions to answer before ordering rolling shutters

A useful quote starts with more than a product name. Record the rough opening width and height, the surrounding mounting surface, wall material, nearby obstructions and how the opening is used. Photos can help the office understand conditions that measurements alone do not show.

• Is manual, electric or another operating method appropriate for each opening?
• Where will the housing, side tracks and controls fit around the window or door?
• How will the shutter operate during a power outage, and what egress rules apply?

Compare current examples in the rolling shutters collection. For custom dimensions, enter your opening measurements in the custom quote tool. The office will review measurements, colors, hardware, changes, shipping and the final total with you before payment.