Every year, as hurricane season approaches, homeowners across Florida face the same question: Do I really need storm shutters, or can I just use plywood? While plywood might seem like a quick, inexpensive fix, the truth is that it’s no match for professionally installed, Florida Building Code–approved hurricane shutters. Storm shutters are stronger, safer, easier to use, and built to protect your home for decades—while plywood is a one-time, last-resort option that can fail when it matters most.
Let’s take a closer look at why engineered storm shutters are the smart, long-term choice for homeowners in Brevard County and beyond.
Superior Protection and Code Compliance
When it comes to true hurricane protection, strength and testing matter. Storm shutters are engineered to withstand high-velocity wind impacts—the kind of extreme pressure and flying debris that occur during a Category 3 or higher hurricane. In fact, these shutters are tested against wind-borne debris equivalent to a 9-pound 2×4 striking your window at over 60 mph.
Professionally installed shutters meet Florida Building Code (FBC) standards such as the Miami-Dade County protocols TAS 201, 202, and 203, or ASTM E1886 and E1996 testing. These certifications aren’t just paperwork—they’re proof that the shutters can hold strong under the most punishing conditions.
Plywood, on the other hand, is only allowed under very specific, temporary conditions (7/16-inch minimum thickness, fasteners every 44 inches, and limited to buildings under 33 feet). In practice, few DIY plywood installations meet those standards, and plywood is not approved at all for high-velocity hurricane zones or large openings. In other words, it’s a risky gamble against Florida’s unpredictable storms.
Ease of Use and Convenience
When a storm is on the way, every minute counts. That’s where permanent hurricane shutters make life a whole lot easier.
Quick Deployment: Accordion and roll-down shutters can be secured in minutes—often by one person, without a ladder or power tools. Compare that to the exhausting process of cutting, drilling, and fastening plywood sheets while a storm bears down on you.
Always Ready: Once installed, storm shutters are ready year-round. No last-minute hardware store runs, no hunting for the right drill bit, and no risk of improper installation. Just peace of mind at the push of a button or slide of a panel.
Durability and Financial Benefits
Storm shutters are built for the long haul. Unlike plywood, which warps, splits, and rots after one use, shutters are a durable, reusable investment that will protect your home for decades. That reliability brings more than just safety—it brings savings.
Insurance Discounts: Many Florida insurance companies offer wind mitigation credits for homes protected with FBC-approved shutters, leading to lower premiums. Plywood, however, doesn’t qualify.
Increased Home Value: Professionally installed shutters enhance curb appeal and resale value, while plywood detracts from both and can even damage your exterior siding from repeated fastening.
Reliable Water Barrier: Beyond wind and debris, shutters also help block wind-driven rain, reducing the risk of interior flooding and mold growth—something plywood simply can’t seal out effectively.
Comprehensive Hurricane Protection Options from Brevard Shutters
At Brevard Shutters, we offer a wide range of hurricane protection products to fit every home and budget—each engineered for Florida’s unique coastal climate.
Hurricane Shutters & Panels:
Our aluminum and steel panels are affordable, easy to store, and built to handle extreme wind loads.
Lexan® Clear Hurricane Panels:
Get full protection without losing natural light. These clear panels are lightweight, durable, and perfect for homeowners who want visibility during storms.
Hurricane Screens:
Made from high-strength, flexible fabric, our hurricane screens block flying debris without obstructing your view. They’re ideal for lanais and patios.
Roll-Up Shutters & Screens:
The ultimate in convenience—just push a button for instant protection. These are great for both residential and commercial properties.
Accordion, Colonial, and Bahama Shutters:
For homeowners who want both aesthetics and strength, these designs combine classic Florida style with dependable storm protection.
Screen Enclosures from Tripod Aluminum:
We also partner with Tripod Aluminum to offer custom screen enclosures and pool enclosures—perfect for creating outdoor spaces that stand up to Florida’s weather.
Why Homeowners in Brevard County Trust Brevard Shutters
For decades, Brevard Shutters has been the Space Coast’s trusted name in hurricane protection. Our team installs every system with precision, ensuring your home meets or exceeds FBC and Miami-Dade County standards. We pride ourselves on craftsmanship, reliability, and customer care that goes beyond installation day.
From Melbourne to Merritt Island, Cocoa Beach to Palm Bay, we’re committed to keeping Florida families safe—because when the next storm comes, your home deserves more than a piece of plywood.
Ready to Protect Your Home Before the Next Storm?
Plywood might work once—but engineered storm shutters are built to work every time. They’re stronger, safer, and smarter for long-term protection and peace of mind.