Hurricane shutters are a staple here in Bermuda. We almost always have a window or shutter project going on at any one moment. In fact they are one of our main divisions here at BS&R Group. There is actually a lot of history and thought behind how shutters are made and what type is best to use on your home.
Why were they created?
Hurricane shutters were initially utilized to serve the same purpose that we use them for today: to protect windows from being broken or compromised during storms, and to regulate the light and privacy of a property.
How are they built?
The most common shutters we see in Bermuda are functional fixed or operable louvered shutters. They either hinge on each side of a window or at the top, and swing closed when necessary.
Shutters usually consist of a vertical stile frame and horizontal rails. Set within the frame are louvers that can open or close the rails. Many operable louvered shutters also have horizontal rails or slats that can be opened or closed as well as the shutter as a whole.
What are they made of?
Shutters can be made of a variety of materials from aluminum to fiberglass to PVC to steel. However our preference (and we may be biased here) is wood.
Our standard material to use now for both shutters and windows is Accoya. Much like its composite counterparts, Accoya offers advantages over regular wood shutters such as resistance to twisting, splitting, and rotting. It’s a perfect material for a climate like Bermuda.
Now that Hurricane season has begun, it is time to inspect your shutters to ensure that none of the joints are loose and that your hardware is in good condition. To order new wooden shutters or repair existing ones, please call us on 236-2886 or email us using info@bsr.bm