Hurricane Shutters Sarasota Florida

• Accordion Shutters
• Panels
• Hurricane Fabric
• Roll Downs
• Bahamas
• Colonials
• Windows/ Doors

Information on Hurricane Windows and The Different Types of Hurricane Shutters

The ferocity of a hurricane, with its howling winds and relentless rains, is a testament to nature's untamed power. Yet, even in the face of such overwhelming force, humanity has always found ways to adapt, protect, and persevere. Welcome to your comprehensive guide on all facets of hurricane readiness, where we merge expertise with experience to provide a holistic view of storm defense. Central to our discussion is the vital world of hurricane shutters. These aren't mere barriers; they are meticulously designed shields, standing resolutely between the comforts of our homes and the storm's fury.From the aesthetic appeal of Bahama shutters to the industrial strength of accordion systems, our extensive articles explore the breadth and depth of options available, ensuring you're equipped to make the best choices tailored to your needs. But our commitment to your safety extends well beyond shutters. Dive deep into a reservoir of information spanning hurricane-proof windows, fabric defenses, and advanced storm tracking. Moreover, our platform also offers insights into personal safety protocols, evacuation strategies, generator ideas and post-storm recovery tips.In this journey through our platform, you'll not only discover the marvels of modern engineering but also the invaluable knowledge accrued from past encounters with hurricanes. With every article and insight, we aim to empower you, reinforcing the adage that knowledge truly is our best defense. So, as the skies darken and the horizon threatens, let this be your beacon, guiding you towards safety, security, and serenity.

For more information on Sarasota Hurricane Shutter options please send us a message and we will get back with you as soon as possible. THANK YOU!

Call: 941-621-0373

• Generator Size Guide
• Before The Storm Prep List

Watching The Tropics

Accordion Shutters

A Deep Dive into Accordion Shutters: The Seamless Blend of Functionality and AestheticsImagine a home that effortlessly combines protection with aesthetics. With accordion shutters, you don’t have to imagine anymore. Named for their resemblance to the musical instrument, these shutters fold and expand in a series of pleats, much like the bellows of an accordion.Understanding Accordion Shutters:
Fixed permanently to the exterior of homes, accordion shutters are your year-round guardians. Unlike traditional shutters that require removal and storage, these remain attached, ready to be deployed at a moment's notice. Operating them is a breeze; they glide smoothly along horizontal tracks, moving from left to right and vice versa.When not in active use, they tuck away discreetly, folding up neatly alongside your windows or doors. This ensures that while they're always there when you need them, they're never in the way when you don't.Manual Operation, Maximum Ease
While some may see the absence of electric or automatic versions as a drawback, in reality, the manual operation of accordion shutters is their strength. Their design ensures that closing them is not only easy but also quick — a vital feature when storms loom on the horizon.Moreover, their versatility extends beyond mere protection from the elements. Want to convert your outdoor patio or lanai into a cozy, enclosed space? Simply pull the accordion shutters closed, and voilà!Why They Reign Supreme in South Florida
The blend of convenience and affordability makes accordion hurricane shutters a top pick for many homeowners, especially in regions like South Florida. Their ease of use combined with their cost-effectiveness positions them as a preferred choice for many.Additionally, they are a boon for part-time residents or those who travel frequently. The shutters not only offer protection from storms but also serve as a security measure, allowing homeowners to lock up their premises with confidence when they're away.Conclusion: Accordion shutters embody the perfect mix of design and utility. Whether it's the approach of a storm or the simple desire to secure one's home while away, these shutters stand ready to serve, proving that sometimes, the best defenses are those that blend seamlessly into our daily lives.

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Hurricane Panels

Storm Panels: An Affordable Solution for Hurricane ProtectionWhen it comes to safeguarding your home against the raging forces of hurricanes, storm panels emerge as one of the most budget-friendly permanent solutions. These panels, while economical, are robustly constructed, ensuring maximum protection without burning a hole in your pocket.Material & Design
Storm panels are typically crafted from one of three materials: steel, aluminum, or clear polycarbonate plastic. Each material offers its unique advantages:Steel: Known for its incredible strength and durability.
Aluminum: Lightweight, yet sturdy, and resistant to corrosion.
Polycarbonate Plastic: Provides the dual benefit of protection and allowing light to pass through.
The corrugated design of these panels enhances their strength, making them resistant to the strong winds and debris that hurricanes bring.Installation Flexibility:
One of the benefits of storm panels is their adaptability in installation. They can be affixed either horizontally or vertically, suiting the dimensions and design of your windows and doors. Their attachment is secure, utilizing storm panel fasteners which are screwed directly into the property's structure. Some systems even offer the convenience of rails, streamlining the installation process and ensuring a tighter fit.Storage & Convenience:
Unlike some other protective solutions, storm panels are not permanently fixed to your home. This means that they need to be installed before a storm and removed once the threat has passed. While this provides the advantage of maintaining the aesthetic appeal of your property without permanent fixtures, it does require some effort and planning.One must also consider storage solutions for these panels when they aren't actively defending your home. They need a designated space, safe from potential damage.Because of the manual installation and storage needs, storm panels might not be the ideal choice for everyone. However, for those willing to invest a bit of time in setup and teardown, and who are conscious of their budget, storm panels are undeniably an excellent protective measure.In Conclusion: Storm panels strike a balance between cost-effectiveness and robust protection. If you're seeking a solution that doesn't compromise on safety but is also kind to your wallet, storm panels are a worthy consideration. Their flexibility in installation, combined with their robust design, ensures that when the next hurricane strikes, you and your property are well-prepared.

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Hurricane Fabric

Hurricane Fabric Shutters: The Modern Armor for Your HomeWhen you think of fabric, flimsy curtains or delicate apparel might come to mind. But when it comes to hurricane fabric shutters, the game changes entirely. These aren't just ordinary fabrics draped over windows; they're a testament to modern protective technology, meticulously designed to safeguard homes from nature's powerful onslaught.Beyond Traditional Fabric: A Reinforced Shield
Hurricane fabric shutters are a cut above regular fabrics. Infused with strength, these materials are thickened and then reinforced with PVC or mesh, creating a robust barrier against the forces of nature. The resilience doesn't stop there. A final coating of resin is applied, enhancing their durability and ensuring they are resistant to tears, punctures, and the relentless battering of storm-driven debris.Versatile Installation Options:
The genius of hurricane fabric shutters extends to their flexibility in installation. Depending on the specific needs and design of a property, these shutters can be:Attached with Grommets: These metal rings facilitate easy and secure attachment, ensuring the fabric remains taut and provides optimal protection.Fitted with Slide Brackets and Buckles: This method offers a tight fit, ensuring that the fabric shutter stays in place even during the fiercest storms.Installed as Roll-Downs: For those seeking a blend of convenience and protection, the roll-down style allows homeowners to deploy or retract the shutters with ease.In Conclusion: Hurricane fabric shutters have revolutionized the way we view storm protection. Gone are the days of cumbersome and unattractive protective measures. These shutters, with their blend of strength and aesthetics, provide homeowners with an effective, modern solution to nature's unpredictability. So, the next time a storm is on the horizon, you can rest assured that behind those fabric shutters, your sanctuary remains undisturbed.

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Roll Down Hurricane Shutters

A Guide to Roll Down Hurricane Shutters: Protecting Your Home Against Nature's FuryHurricanes are a force of nature that no one wants to reckon with. The sheer power of these storms can wreak havoc on properties, leaving a trail of destruction in their wake. For homeowners and business owners alike, ensuring the safety of their property becomes paramount. Enter the solution: Roll Down hurricane shutters. These shutters are not just a protective measure, but an investment in peace of mind.Why Choose Roll Down Hurricane Shutters?
Constructed using premium-grade materials like aluminum, steel, or polycarbonate, Roll Down hurricane shutters are specially designed to offer a formidable defense against the brute force of hurricanes. Permanently fixed to the exteriors of homes and businesses, they can be either manually operated or motorized for user convenience. Beyond their functionality, these shutters also enhance the aesthetic appeal of properties, available in a range of colors to match or contrast any design palate.Let's dive deeper into the key features and benefits of Accordion Shutters:Heavy-duty Aluminum Construction:
Roll Down hurricane shutters stand out due to their robust aluminum build. This ensures they remain steadfast against the harshest of weather conditions, including Category 5 hurricanes. Their strength and reliability are further cemented by the approval they receive from Miami Dade for impact resistance.Wind Resistance:
Living in hurricane-prone areas means facing high winds regularly. Roll Down hurricane shutters are not only built to resist these winds but have been tested and certified by Miami-Dade County Building Code Compliance Office, ensuring your property remains shielded against even the most severe storms.Ease of Manual Operation:
In dire situations like power outages, the last thing one needs is to struggle with securing their property. Roll Down hurricane shutters come with the advantage of being easy to operate manually, allowing a single individual to safeguard the property without any hassle.Custom-fit for Every Home:
Every home is unique, and so are its protection needs. Roll Down hurricane shutters can be customized to fit any window or door size, ensuring optimal protection against storms. Their ability to shield against Category 5 hurricanes, coupled with approval from Miami Dade County, makes them a top choice for homeowners.Enhanced Security:
Beyond protection from storms, Roll Down hurricane shutters serve as a deterrent against unauthorized access, making them a dual-purpose investment. Especially in areas with higher burglary rates, these shutters can be the barrier that keeps intruders at bay.Conclusion: For those residing in hurricane-prone areas, Roll Down hurricane shutters are more than just an accessory; they are a necessity. Offering unparalleled protection against storms, high winds, and even unauthorized access, these shutters are an investment in safety and peace of mind. Their sleek design and range of customizable options ensure they merge seamlessly with any architectural style. When the next storm hits, make sure your property is well-guarded with Roll Down hurricane shutters. Your home and everything inside it deserve the best protection.

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Bahama Shutters

Bahama Hurricane Shutters: The Perfect Blend of Function and AestheticWhen contemplating hurricane protection, homeowners often face a trade-off between function and style. However, Bahama hurricane shutters break this convention, offering a dual-purpose solution that's both protective and aesthetically pleasing.Design & Functionality:
Bahama hurricane shutters aren't just any shutters. They feature a single-piece design that elegantly extends over windows, reminiscent of a sunshade or awning. Their distinct louvered slats don't just add to the aesthetic appeal; they serve a practical purpose as well.Year-round Benefits:
One of the standout features of Bahama shutters is their year-round utility:Sun Protection: The strategically designed slats effectively block out intense sun rays, ensuring the interiors remain cool and shielded from potential UV damage.Natural Cooling: By providing shade, these shutters help in maintaining a cooler interior, reducing the reliance on artificial cooling methods and thus potentially saving on energy costs.Storm-Ready in Moments:
When ominous storm clouds gather, Bahama shutters are up to the task. Their preparation process is swift and hassle-free. Homeowners simply need to remove the supporting rod, allowing the shutter to cover the entire window. Once positioned, it's securely fastened at the bottom, ensuring a sturdy shield against the storm's fury.In Conclusion: For those seeking a harmonious blend of style and safety, Bahama hurricane shutters emerge as a clear choice. Their design ensures homeowners don't have to compromise on aesthetics while still enjoying top-tier protection from both sunny days and stormy nights. With Bahama shutters, you get the best of both worlds, wrapped up in one elegant solution.

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Colonial Hurricane Shutters

Colonial shutters are known to add a beautiful tropical, Caribbean, Key West look to the windows of your home or business. With the innovation of the 2” Full View and 4” Ultra View Bahama hurricane shutter system, now it’s possible to protect your home or business with full control of your view from complete private to full view outside. The articulating blades allow you to adjust to your perfect preference. These systems are not only beautiful but are also, Miami-Dade HVHZ hurricane category 5 rated approved shutter system. Bahama hurricane shutters are made of hi-grade extruded aluminum and power coated to last is the toughest environments on the planet.Colonial storm shutters also double as sunshades as well. Always provides shade to windows and patio allowing for a cooler environment to be available in your home or business. Bahama shutters also offer the option of being able to adjust their angle of use allowing for more privacy in your home or business.

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Hurricane Windows

Unveiling the Strength of Hurricane Windows: Beyond Ordinary GlassWhen it comes to facing the mighty wrath of hurricanes, standard windows simply won't do. Enter hurricane windows: a marvel of engineering designed specifically to stand up to the most severe weather conditions.The Science Behind Hurricane Windows
At the heart of hurricane windows is the unique "hurricane glass" or laminated glass. Unlike the regular window glass that we encounter in everyday homes and buildings, hurricane glass is a product of advanced technology and innovation.Laminated Glass: A Shield Against Nature's Fury
Laminated glass isn't just a single layer of material. It's typically made by bonding a layer of clear polyvinyl butyral (PVB) plastic between two slabs of glass. This layering technique ensures that even if the glass cracks upon impact, the shards remain bound to the plastic layer, preventing them from scattering and causing injuries.A Barricade Against Wind and Debris
One of the primary threats during a hurricane isn't just the wind, but the debris carried by it. Objects moving at hurricane speeds can easily shatter regular windows, making wind-borne debris a significant concern. Hurricane windows, with their reinforced laminated glass, are designed to not only withstand these extreme wind speeds but also to offer unparalleled protection against any debris propelled by the storm.In Conclusion: Hurricane windows represent the future of safety in regions prone to extreme weather conditions. By replacing standard glass with this fortified alternative, homeowners can ensure a safer environment for their families and valuable possessions. When nature unleashes its fury, it's always best to be prepared, and installing hurricane windows is a step in the right direction.

Hurricane doors are built to comply with Florida regulations, including the rigorous Miami-Dade High-Velocity Hurricane Zone (HVHZ) Test. ETO has one of the hugest selections of impact and hurricane-rated doors in the nation, including glass and French doors.

Call: 941-621-0373

Before the Storm Prep List

1. Charge any device that provides light. Laptops, tablets, cameras, video cameras, and old phones. Old cell phones can still used for dialing 911. Charge external battery back ups. ( Glow sticks also provide light for a few hours. Stand them upright in a glass or jar to make a lantern.)
2. Wash all trash cans, big and small, and fill with water for flushing toilets. Line outdoor trash cans with trash bags, fill with water and store in the garage. Add bleach to sterilize.
3. Fill every tub and sink with water. Cover sinks with Saran Wrap to keep it from collecting dust. Fill washing machine and leave lid up to store water.
4. Fill old empty water bottles and other containers with water and keep near sinks for washing hands.
5. Fill every Tupperware with water and store in freezer. These will help keep food cold longer and serve as a back up water supply.
6. Fill drinking cups with water and cover with Saran Wrap. Store as many as possible in fridge. The rest you can store on the counter and use first before any water bottles are opened. Ice is impossible to find after the storm.
7. Reserve fridge space for storing tap water and keep the sealed water bottles on the counter.
8. Cook any meats in advance and other perishable foods. You can freeze cooked food. Hard boil eggs for snacks for first day without power.
9. Be well hydrated before the storm hits and avoid salty foods that make you dehydrated.
10. Wash all dirty clothes and bed sheets. Anything dirty will smell without the A/C, you may need the items, and with no A/C, you'll be sweating a lot. You're going to want clean sheets.
11. Toss out any expiring food, clean cat litter boxes, empty all trash cans in the house, including bathrooms. Remove anything that will cause an odor when the A/C is off. If you don't have a trash day pickup before the storm, find a dumpster.
12. Bring in any yard decor, secure anything that will fly around, secure gates, bring in hoses, potted plants, etc. Bring in patio furniture and grills.
13. Clean your environment so you have clear, easy escape routes. Even if that means temporarily moving furniture to one area.
14. Scrub all bathrooms so you are starting with a clean odor free environment. Store water filled trash cans next to each toilet for flushing.
15. Place everything you own that is important and necessary in a backpack or small file box that is easy to grab. Include your wallet with ID, phone, hand sanitizer, snacks, etc. Get plastic sleeves for important documents.
16. Make sure you have cash on hand.
17. Stock up on pet food and fill up bowls of water for pets.
18. Refill any medications. Most insurance companies allow for 2 emergency refills per year.
19. Fill your propane tanks. You can heat soup cans, boil water, make coffee, and other stuff besides just grilling meat. Get an extra, if possible.
20. Drop your A/C in advance and lower temperatures in your fridges.
21. Gather all candles, flashlights, lighters, matches, batteries, and other items and keep them accessible.
22. Clean all counters in advance. Start with a clean surface. Buy Clorox Wipes for cleaning when there is no power. Mop your floors and vacuum. If power is out for 10 days, you'll have to live in the mess you started with.
23. Pick your emergency safe place such as a closet under the stairs. Store the items you'll need in that location for the brunt of the storm. Make a hand fan for when the power is out.
24. Shower just before the storm is scheduled to hit.
25. Keep baby wipes next to each toilet. Don't flush them. It's not the time to risk clogging your toilet!
26. Run your dishwasher, don't risk having dirty smelly dishes and you need every container for water! Remember you'll need clean water for brushing your teeth, washing yourself, and cleaning your hands.
27. Put a small suitcase in your car in case you decide to evacuate. Also put at least one jug of water in your car. It will still be there if you don't evacuate! You don't need to store all water in the house. Remember to pack for pets as well.
28. Check on all family members, set up emergency back up plans, and check on elderly neighbors.
29. Remember, pets are family too. Take them with you!
30. Before the storm, unplug all electronics. There will be power surges during and after the storm.
31. Gas up your car and have a spare gas container for your generator or your car when you run out.
32 . Use plastic cups and paper plates. 👍 You need water to wash dishes....👎
33 . Also if you run out of water tap your hot water heater it can have up to 30 gallons stored in there.
34 . Put water in balloons and store in freezer.
35 . If it's yellow let it mellow, if it's brown Flush it down!💩If you can, before the storm... take a video of your house and it's contents. Go from room to room opening cabinets/drawers and closets. This will help if you need to make a claim later. It will also show proof of items and help you list all the items (so you don't forget anything).
I also heard a great tip were you should freeze a cup of water, place a coin on top after it is frozen. Keep this frozen glass of water in your freezer to help you gauge the temperature if the power goes out. If the coin stays on top, the food is staying frozen. If the coin falls into the water, the freezer got warm enough for the water to thaw out and most food will likely need to be thrown away. This trick is super helpful if you have to leave and come back, as it may appear everything is still frozen, but if the coin is in the cup you will know the freezer content has been thawed.
Finally, anything that you want to try and preserve, but you can't take with you, place it in a plastic bin and put in your dishwasher, and lock the door this should make it water tight in case of any water intrusion into your home. But of course, if possible take any important/irreplaceable items you can!!

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Generator Sizing Guide for Home Appliances

The wattages are estimations, so you might want to adjust them based on specific product manuals or manufacturers specifications for a more accurate guide.

Generator Size Calculator

Please note that these are just estimates and the actual generator size you need may vary depending on the specific appliances you are using and the conditions in which you are using them. It is always best to consult with a qualified electrician or generator dealer to determine the correct generator size for your needs.Here are some additional things to keep in mind when choosing a generator:

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