How much do hurricane shutters cost?
Columbus, OH

How much do hurricane shutters cost?

Columbus, OH

How much do hurricane shutters cost?

$5 – $50average cost per square foot
$35 – $350average cost per window (24" x 42")
$2,000 – $8,000average cost for a house

Hurricane shutters cost $2,000 to $8,000 on average for a house. Accordion shutters cost $15 to $25 per square foot or $105 to $175 per window. Roll-down hurricane shutters cost $20 to $175 per square foot or $140 to $1,225 each. Storm shutter panels and fabric screens cost $5 to $30 per square foot.

Get free estimates for your project or view our cost guide below:

$5 – $50 average cost per square foot

$35 – $350 average cost per window (24" x 42")

$2,000 – $8,000 average cost for a house


Hurricane shutters cost $2,000 to $8,000 on average for a house. Accordion shutters cost $15 to $25 per square foot or $105 to $175 per window. Roll-down hurricane shutters cost $20 to $175 per square foot or $140 to $1,225 each. Storm shutter panels and fabric screens cost $5 to $30 per square foot.

Get free estimates for your project or view our cost guide below:
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Tara Farmer
Written by
Tara Farmer
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Hurricane shutters cost

Hurricane shutters cost $5 to $50 per square foot on average for accordion, Bahama, colonial, aluminum or clear panels, or fabric screen types. Electric roll-down hurricane shutters cost $50 to $175 per square foot. Storm shutter costs depend on the type, material, and automation level.

Hurricane shutters cost per square foot - chart
Hurricane shutters cost per square foot - chart
Hurricane shutters cost
Metric Metal panel or fabric screen Accordion, Bahama, or basic roll-down Electric roll-down or steel screen
Per square foot* $5 – $30 $15 – $50 $50 – $175
Per window (24"x42")* $35 – $210 $105 – $350 $350 – $1,225
Per 10 windows (24"x42")* $350 – $2,100 $1,050 – $3,500 $3,500 – $12,250
Per 20 windows (24"x42")* $700 – $4,200 $2,100 – $7,000 $7,000 – $24,500

*Price includes installation.

Get free estimates from hurricane shutter installation near you.

Hurricane shutters cost calculator

The following table shows the average cost of hurricane shutters for a house.

Average cost of hurricane shutters for a house - chart
Average cost of hurricane shutters for a house - chart
Average hurricane shutters cost
National average cost $4,700
Minimum cost $400
Maximum cost $15,000
Average range $2,000 to $8,000

*Cost data is from research and project costs reported by HomeGuide members.

Hurricane shutters prices by type

  • Accordion hurricane shutters cost $15 to $25 per square foot.

  • Roll-down or Bahama storm shutters cost $20 to $50 per square foot.

  • Electric roll-down hurricane shutters cost $50 to $175 per square foot.

  • Storm shutter panels and fabric hurricane screens cost $5 to $30 per square foot.

Hurricane shutters cost per window - chart
Hurricane shutters cost per window - chart
Hurricane shutter prices by type
Type Cost per square foot* Cost per window (24" x 42")* Temporary or permanent
Accordion shutters $15 – $25 $105 – $175 Permanent
Aluminum or metal storm panel $5 – $15 $35 – $105 Both options available
Anti-impact hurricane window film $5 – $15 $35 – $105 Permanent
Bahama shutters $20 – $50 $140 – $350 Permanent
Clear polycarbonate panel $10 – $20 $70 – $140 Both options available
Colonial shutters $20 – $50 $140 – $350 Permanent
Fabric screen $5 – $30 $35 – $210 Both options available
Hurricane impact windows $40 – $70 $280 – $490 Permanent
Plywood shutters $2 – $5 $15 – $35 Temporary
Roll-up or roll-down shutters $20 – $50 $140 – $350 Permanent
Motorized or electric roll-down shutters $50 – $175 $350 – $1,225 Permanent
Steel mesh storm screen $85 – $150 $595 – $1,050 Permanent

*Includes installation.

Accordion shutters cost

Accordion shutters cost $15 to $25 per square foot installed or $105 to $175 per 24"x42" window. Accordion hurricane shutters are permanent, run along a track, and unfold when needed. Accordion-style shutters are made of aluminum or steel and work well on balconies, windows, and sliding glass doors.

Accordion hurricane shutters installed on house
Accordion hurricane shutters installed on house

Roll-up or roll-down hurricane shutters cost

Roll-down hurricane shutters cost $25 to $120 per square foot installed or $175 to $840 per window on average. Manual roll-up shutters cost $20 to $50 per square foot. Electric roll-down hurricane shutters cost $50 to $175 per square foot.

  • Exterior rolling shutters are permanently top-mounted and provide storm protection, security, and light and noise control.

  • Roll-down shutters work well over large openings or in place of a garage door.

Manual and electric roll-down hurricane shutters cost - chart
Manual and electric roll-down hurricane shutters cost - chart
Roll-down hurricane shutters cost
Type Cost per square foot* Cost per window (24" x 42")*
Manual roll-down shutters $20 – $50 $140 – $350
Electric roll-down shutters $50 – $175 $350 – $1,225

*Includes installation.

Manual roll-down hurricane shutters installed over backyard windows
Manual roll-down hurricane shutters installed over backyard windows

Bahama shutters cost

Bahama shutters cost $20 to $50 per square foot installed or $140 to $350 per window. Bahama storm shutters are made of aluminum or wood, permanently mounted, and top-hinged at a 45-degree angle like an awning.

  • Bahama hurricane shutters can close completely and add privacy, light control, and tropical style to the home.

  • Bahama shutters are also called Bermuda shutters. Some Bahama shutters have moveable slats—also called louvers—to adjust the light and visibility level.

Wood Bahama storm shutters mounted and open
Wood Bahama storm shutters mounted and open

Motorized or electric hurricane shutters cost

Electric hurricane shutters cost $50 to $175 per square foot installed or $175 to $1,225 per window. Electric roll-down hurricane shutters operate with a motorized switch, remote, or smart device and should include a battery backup or manual crank. Automatic shutters work well in areas like lanais, patios, and balconies.

Motorized electric roll-down hurricane shutters installed over patio
Motorized electric roll-down hurricane shutters installed over patio

Storm panel hurricane shutters cost

Storm panel hurricane shutters cost $5 to $20 per square foot installed or $35 to $140 per window, depending on the material and components. Storm shutter panels are temporary, attach by track or with bolts, and come in various materials:

  • Steel – Strong and thin but very heavy

  • Aluminum – Thicker and lighter than steel

  • Clear polycarbonate – As strong as aluminum but not as heavy; lets light in

  • Fabric – Folds or rolls up for easy storage; lets light in

Storm shutter panels pros and cons
Pros Cons
  • Corrugated panels overlap for reinforced protection.
  • Economical
  • Temporary – no change to home aesthetics when not in use
  • Time and effort required to deploy
  • Require storage
  • Can be cumbersome to install depending on the material

Aluminum and clear polycarbonate hurricane panels
Aluminum and clear polycarbonate hurricane panels

Colonial hurricane shutters cost

Colonial hurricane shutters cost $20 to $50 per square foot installed or $140 to $350 per window. Colonial shutters hinge at the sides, fold together for storm protection, and provide a decorative element. Colonial hurricane shutters are typically made of aluminum and come in louvered and board-and-batten styles.

Colonial hurricane shutters open and closed with brace
Colonial hurricane shutters open and closed with brace

Storm shutters cost by material

Storm shutter prices depend on the shutter material and type, number and size of openings, and level of automation.

Storm shutters cost by material
Material Cost per square foot Pros Cons
Fabric $5 – $30
  • Lightweight
  • Stores easily
  • Allows light in
  • Some fabrics are not the most robust protection.
  • Custom sizing may require a professional.
Metal $5 – $175
  • Strongest storm protection
  • Many styles available
  • Blocks out light
  • Temporary mounting can be cumbersome.
Clear polycarbonate $10 – $20
  • Lighter than metal with the same level of protection
  • Allows light in
  • Requires time and effort before a storm
  • Degrades over time unless UV coated
Plywood $2 – $5
  • Inexpensive
  • Can be found at local hardware stores
  • Labor intensive
  • Not the strongest protection
  • No insurance discounts

Fabric hurricane shutters cost

Removable fabric hurricane shutters cost $5 to $15 per square foot installed. Roll-down hurricane fabric shutters cost $25 to $50 per square foot installed and are permanently mounted. Fabric storm shutters contain Kevlar, PVC, or UV-resistant coating, and are flexible yet strong enough to withstand hurricane-force winds.

Cost of fabric hurricane shutters
Factor Temporary Permanent
Price per square foot $5 – $15 per square foot* $25 – $50 per square foot*
Material options
  • Astroguard
  • Storm Catcher
  • Fabric Shield
  • Atlas Armor
  • Storm Catcher
  • Fabric Shield
Pros
  • Easily stored
  • Lightweight
  • Translucent – allows light in
  • Quick and easy to deploy before a storm
  • Roll down at any time for sun and insect protection
  • Translucent – allows light in
Cons
  • Limited color selection
  • Professional required for custom sizing
  • Requires time and effort before a storm
  • Expensive
  • Less protective than some permanent shutter types
  • Manual effort needed during a power outage

*Including installation.

Removable fabric hurricane shutters covering house windows
Removable fabric hurricane shutters covering house windows

Aluminum / metal hurricane shutters cost

Aluminum hurricane shutters cost $5 to $50 per square foot installed or $35 to $350 per 24"x42" window, depending on the type and level of automation.

  • Aluminum panels are the most common material, provide strong storm protection, and are lightweight at 1 to 1.5 pounds per foot.

  • Steel shutter panels are 50% thinner than aluminum panels but twice as heavy at 2.5 to 3 pounds per foot.

Cost of aluminum and metal hurricane shutters
Type Cost per square foot* Pros Cons
Aluminum and steel hurricane panels $5 – $15
  • Affordable
  • Removable
  • Can use on doors
  • Require storage
  • Can be cumbersome
Accordion shutters $15 – $25
  • Easy install and operation
  • Can use on large openings
  • Lock from inside or outside
  • Unattractive to some
  • Needs regular maintenance
Bahama and colonial shutters $20 – $50
  • Add aesthetics and privacy
  • Open and close from inside
  • Cannot use on doors or large windows
  • Block out a lot of light
Aluminum roll-down shutters $25 – $175
  • Easy to deploy
  • Provide security if the homeowner needs to evacuate
  • Motorized versions need power.
  • Require professional installation

*Including installation.

Clear hurricane shutters cost

Clear hurricane shutters cost $10 to $20 per square foot installed. Clear polycarbonate panels offer the same protection as metal storm panels but with added visibility. Use clear corrugated shutters with aluminum hurricane panels to keep costs down but let more light into your home.

Clear polycarbonate hurricane shutters over doors and windows
Clear polycarbonate hurricane shutters over doors and windows

Wood storm shutters cost

Plywood hurricane shutters cost $2 to $5 per square foot installed and provide a temporary option before a storm. Wood board-and-batten shutters cost $15 to $80 per square foot installed, are permanent, and give some protection but are typically not hurricane-rated.

For DIY plywood shutters:

  • Plywood must be 5/8" thick minimum.

  • Cut 7" wider and 7" taller than the window size.

  • Use at least 3" bolts and drill bits to ensure a tight fit.

Temporary plywood storm shutters installed over windows
Temporary plywood storm shutters installed over windows

Anti-impact hurricane window film cost

Anti-impact hurricane window film costs $5 to $15 per square foot installed. Anti-impact film prevents shattering but doesn't provide adequate hurricane protection like shutters or impact windows. The film secures to the frame with a special adhesive, so professional installation is recommended.

Get free estimates from hurricane shutter installation near you.

Hurricane shutter installation cost factors

Shutter companies and handyman services charge $50 to $80 per hour plus materials to install hurricane shutters. Permanent shutters take 1 hour to install, fabric screens take 30 minutes, and automatic shutters take up to 2 hours. Add more time for large windows or windows on the second floor.

The following factors affect the cost to install hurricane shutters:

  • Materials – Durable and expensive materials increase the total cost but offer more robust impact protection and withstand different wind speeds.

  • Type – Shutter prices depend on the type, style, function, and automation level. Motorized options with remotes or smart capabilities increase the cost. Some exterior accordion shutters and panels can operate from the inside.

  • Window size, shape, and amount – The more windows to cover, the higher the cost. Oddly shaped windows may cost more for custom cutting.

  • Permits – Permits cost $50 to $200 and are required by most coastal states to install window treatments.

  • Installation – Labor costs to install depend on the type, window size, window location, and the number of workers. Electricians charge $40 to $100 per hour to wire motorized shutters and wall switches.

  • DIY vs. pro – DIY installation costs less, but hiring a professional ensures proper storm protection and may reduce insurance premiums.

  • Time of year – Professional installation may cost less outside of the hurricane season.

Shutter hurricane-rating and durability

Products marketed for storm protection vary in durability. Choose shutters tested and rated specifically for hurricanes with one or more of the below standards to ensure adequate protection:

Hurricane shutters for sliding glass doors

Storm shutters for patio doors cost $10 to $55 per square foot installed, depending on the type. Accordion, panel, roll-down, and fabric panels work well as hurricane shutters for sliding glass doors. Accordion shutters are popular for sliding glass doors and cost $15 to $25 per square foot installed.

Mobile home hurricane shutters

Mobile home hurricane shutters cost $2 to $20 per square foot installed, depending on the type. Plywood panel shutters are the least expensive at $2 to $5 per square foot. Sliding storm panels cost $5 to $20 per square foot installed and can be deployed quickly and easily before a storm.

Hurricane screens cost

Hurricane screens cost $5 to $30 per square foot for fabric or $85 to $150 per square foot for stainless steel mesh, including installation. Hurricane fabric screens contain Kevlar, PVC, or UV-resistant resin coating, making them flexible but strong. Steel mesh hurricane screens secure the home year-round.

Hurricane screens cost chart
Hurricane screens cost chart
Hurricane screens cost
Screen type Cost per square foot* Features
Fabric hurricane screens $5 – $30
  • Temporary and permanent options
  • Lightweight
  • Store easily
  • Ideal for enclosing large spaces
  • Blocks up to 95% heat and UV rays
Stainless steel mesh screens $85 – $150
  • Permanent
  • Look like standard window screens
  • Provide storm protection and year-round security
  • Block over 50% of heat and UV rays

*Including installation.

Get free estimates from hurricane shutter installation near you.

There are several methods to attach fabric hurricane screens:

  • Grommet – Screen attaches with wingnuts or bolts into 1/4" anchors on the house. Inexpensive hardware makes grommet systems the most affordable.

  • Buckle and strap – Straps are sewn into the fabric and attach to buckles or wrap around columns. Zippers make for quick entry and exit.

  • Roll-up – Affixed permanently to the house and can be manual or motorized

  • Hemcord – Screens slide onto a permanently mounted track. Deployment from inside the house makes it ideal for second-floor use or higher.

  • I-Beam track – Slides on a curtain-like track. Ideal for balconies and patios

Hurricane shutters vs. impact windows cost

  • Hurricane shutters cost $35 to $350 per window, have a 40% to 50% ROI, add a visual element, provide UV protection, and vary in visibility and level of effort required.

  • Impact windows cost $280 to $490 per window with an 80% to 86% ROI, cause no visual change, provide UV protection, and 100% visibility.

Hurricane shutters vs. impact windows cost - per window chart
Hurricane shutters vs. impact windows cost - per window chart
Hurricane shutters vs. impact windows cost
Factor Hurricane shutters Impact windows
Cost per window installed* $35 – $350 $280 – $490
Return on investment (ROI) 40% – 50% 80% – 86%
Features
  • Varying visibility depending on type
  • Varying effort required before a storm
  • UV protection when deployed
  • May qualify for insurance discounts
  • Adds a visual element to the home
  • 100% visibility
  • No action needed before a storm
  • 99% UV protection year-round
  • Thicker than standard windows
  • Inner laminate layer prevents shattering
  • May reduce energy bills up to 50%
  • May qualify for insurance discounts and tax credits
  • No aesthetic change to the home

*Including installation.

Do you need hurricane shutters with impact windows?

Hurricane shutters are not needed with impact windows installed. Impact windows withstand high winds and do not shatter but can still break from flying debris. Installing hurricane shutters over impact windows provides the best protection but costs the most.

Hurricane shutter FAQs

How much do hurricane shutters cost in Florida?

Hurricane shutters cost $2,000 to $8,000 on average for a house in Florida. The total cost depends on the shutter type, material, number and size of windows, and labor.

What are permanent storm shutters?

Permanent storm shutters are attached to the exterior of a home's windows and doors for immediate use. Accordion and roll-down are the two most common permanent storm shutter options. Permanent shutters are ideal for two-story homes and severe weather-prone areas.

Do accordion hurricane shutters increase home value?

Accordion hurricane shutters slightly increase a home's value and have a 40% to 50% return on investment (ROI). Hurricane shutters improve a home's exterior aesthetics and are more attractive to home buyers in a hurricane zone.

Are hurricane shutters worth it?

Hurricane shutters protect the windows, doors, and everything inside the home from hurricane-force winds and flying debris. One broken window during a hurricane has the potential to destroy a home's interior and structure due to pressurization.

Leaving your home unprotected in a storm may lead to interior damage and costly repairs:

Do I need hurricane shutters for all of my windows?

According to FEMA, all windows need hurricane shutters or hurricane protection. However, not all sides of the home need the most expensive treatment. Some building codes, such as those in Florida, require all windows to have hurricane shutters or storm windows.

One broken window may lead to significant damage from water and flying debris and increases the likelihood of the roof blowing off due to internal pressurization.

What are the best hurricane shutters?

The best hurricane shutters depend on the homeowner's budget, physical ability, and aesthetic preference:

Best hurricane shutters by factor
Factor Features
Budget
  • Hurricane fabric, aluminum, and polycarbonate panels are less expensive options but require time and physical effort to deploy before a storm.
  • Roll-down, accordion, Bahama, and colonial shutters price on the high end but require minimal effort.
Physical ability
  • Rolling and accordion shutters have motorized options, ideal for older or disabled homeowners.
  • Steel hurricane panels may provide more robust protection than aluminum or polycarbonate panels, but installation is more labor-intensive.
Aesthetics
  • Bahama and colonial shutters provide an aesthetic change and storm protection to the house.

What are the cheapest accordion shutters?

The cheapest accordion shutters cost $15 to $25 per square foot or $105 to $175 per 24'x42' window installed. For a temporary solution, plywood shutters cost $2 to $5 per square foot or $15 to $35 per 24'x42' window.

How much are security shutters?

Security shutters cost $175 to $370 for an average 36"x42" window. Security shutters provide privacy, light and noise control, energy savings, and intruder protection, but are not hurricane-rated.

Finding hurricane shutter installation companies

Hiring a professional ensures proper installation, protection, and peace of mind. Professionally installed hurricane shutters meet building codes that may qualify for insurance discounts.

Before hiring a shutter installer, remember to:

  • Get at least three estimates to compare.

  • Look for licensed contractors with hurricane shutter installation experience.

  • Get references and check out previous installations.

  • Read their reviews on HomeGuide and Google.

  • Select companies that are insured, bonded, and have been in business for 5+ years.

  • Avoid selecting the lowest quote as quality may suffer.

  • Always choose shutters rated and approved to withstand hurricane-force winds.

  • Get a detailed estimate, contract, and warranty in writing before the work begins.

  • Never pay in full before the project starts. Follow a payment plan instead for work completed.

Questions to ask installers

  • How long have you been in business?

  • Are you licensed, bonded, and insured?

  • Which type of shutters do you recommend for my home, and why?

  • Are the shutters hurricane-rated?

  • Are the shutters approved for the High-Velocity Hurricane Zone (HVHZ)?

  • Will you show me how to attach the hurricane shutters myself?

  • What is and is not included in the installation fee?

  • What additional costs should I expect?

  • How long will the installation take?

  • Do I need to be home for the installation?

  • How long will the hurricane shutters last?

  • Is a warranty included? If yes, what does it cover?

  • What kind of maintenance will the shutters require?

  • How much do you charge for repairs?