How Much Does It Cost To Install Hurricane Shutters?

Hurricane shutters cost

The cost of hurricane shutters will depend on where you live, how many windows you’re covering, the impact rating, material, shutter size, and style, whether they’re motorized, and the installer demand. On average, hurricane shutter installation costs about $5,000, although prices can increase depending on the cost of materials and labor. The average cost of hurricane shutters ranges from $43 to $54 per square foot. 

Labor cost to install hurricane shutters

While DIY can be an option for installing hurricane shutters, many homeowners hire a professional to ensure the shutters are properly secured. The cost of labor for hurricane shutter installation will vary depending on where you live and the size of the job. Typically, the cost of labor will range between $40 and $100 per hour, not including the cost of an electrician if you opt for motorized hurricane shutters.

Cost of hurricane shutters by type

Whether you have a lot of windows or just a few, each type of hurricane shutter comes with a different cost. The material and design you select will have a significant impact on your budget. Before you make a decision, explore these examples of hurricane shutter styles and materials along with their average prices:

Plywood shutters

Ranging between $1 to $5 per square foot, plywood hurricane shutters are a great option for those on a budget. For the best results, ensure the plywood hurricane shutters are at least ⅝ inches thick or thicker and that they overlap your windows to provide adequate protection.

Fabric storm panels

Fabric storm panels are great if you’re in a pinch and need immediate protection from a storm. Made from durable fabric, these panels resist wind and rain. When the storm passes, you can remove the panels and store them for future use. On average, DIY fabric storm panels cost about $66 per window.

Storm shutters cost

Storm shutter panels are an affordable hurricane shutter option. However, installing them can be time-consuming since they need to be bolted onto your home. The average cost of storm shutter panels ranges between $7 to $15 each, depending on whether you go for aluminum or steel material.

Accordion hurricane shutters cost calculator

Made of lightweight aluminum, accordion shutters cost between $15 and $25 per square foot. The benefit to this type of hurricane shutter is they easily fold up like an accordion when they’re not in use. Easy to open and close, accordion hurricane shutters are a favorite amongst homeowners.

Bahama shutters

One of the most attractive shutter options, Bahama shutters are similar to an awning that hangs directly over your window. The difference is Bahama shutters are permanently attached and propped open using a rod to provide window protection. On average, these types of shutters range between $15 and $20 per square foot or $200 to $1,000 apiece.

Colonial shutters

Featuring panels on both sides of the window, colonial shutters offer decorative window glass protection. Usually, colonial shutters have a louvered design and can be painted for enhanced curb appeal. The cost ranges between $18 to $30 per square foot or between $200 and $500 per window.

Roll down hurricane shutters cost

This type of hurricane shutter sits inside a small storage box mounted over each window in your home. Simply roll down the shutters manually or electrically when you need window protection. Roll-down shutters range between $25 and $45 per square foot, depending on if you have electronic shutters installed.

Other hurricane shutter cost factors

Of course, the total cost of your hurricane shutter installation will vary depending on a range of factors. The material and design of your shutters are always the most significant when it comes to your budget. However, there are a few other things to consider when determining the final price, including:

Permits

You may need to obtain a permit before installing permanent hurricane shutters, especially if you live in a neighborhood with a homeowner’s association. The cost of a permit ranges between $50 and $200. However, it could cost more depending on your local jurisdiction, rates, and rules.

Time of year

The cost to install hurricane shutters may be more expensive the closer to hurricane season. So, for the best price, try to get your hurricane shutters installed during the off-season before hurricanes hit. According to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), hurricane season for the Atlantic is from June 1 to November 30.

House size

The bigger your home and windows, the more expensive shutter installation will be, especially if there are multiple stories. You may pay more for hurricane shutter installation if you have extra-large windows or customized window shapes.

Cost to paint shutters

If you buy unfinished shutters, you'll likely want to have them painted to match your siding or trim. For this project, you can try to paint them yourself or you may choose to hire a professional painter which may cost between $200 and $500 or more. Some window covering installation companies will offer to paint them for you, or you can ask about custom colors to ensure a perfect match.

Permanent hurricane shutters vs temporary paneling

Temporary hurricane shutters include fabric, storm screens, and storm panels. Typically, these types of hurricane shutters are easy to deploy in just a few hours. Permanent shutters include Bahama, colonial, roll-down, and accordion. These types of hurricane shutters are attached to the exterior of your home so you can deploy them at a moment’s notice. It all comes down to whether you want to keep the shutters on your home year-round.

Impact windows vs hurricane shutters prices

Made from impact-resistant glass with thick window panes, hurricane impact-resistant windows provide protection against flying debris, strong winds, and other perils. Similar to a car’s windshield, this type of window protection shatters upon impact instead of breaking into dangerous shards of glass. Plus, they’re more aesthetically pleasing than some hurricane shutters. However, they’re also much more expensive than almost every type of hurricane shutter available. Impact-resistant windows range between $60 and $68 per square foot.