Hey there! If you’ve ever experienced a hurricane, you know the drill: batten down the hatches, stock up on supplies, and yes, deploy those trusty hurricane shutters. But what happens once the storm has passed? Some folks might think, “Hey, why not just leave these shutters up all year? Saves me the hassle next time, right?” Well, not so fast! Let’s dive into why keeping your hurricane shutters up all year might not be the best idea.
The Safety Scoop
First off, safety—always a top priority, right? Hurricane shutters are fantastic at shielding windows from flying debris during a storm, but they’re not so great in other emergencies. Imagine needing to make a quick exit or entry due to a fire or another urgent situation, and those shutters are in your way. Not ideal, to say the least. Plus, many local regulations specifically require shutters to be removed after hurricane season to ensure everyone can get out safely when needed.
Let the Sunshine In
Now, let’s talk ambiance. Who doesn’t love a sunny, airy home? Keeping shutters up blocks out that lovely natural light, making your home feel more like a bunker than a cozy retreat. This means more lights on, more electricity used, and a higher utility bill staring you down at the end of the month.
Breathe Easy, Literally
And about that fresh air—shutters can seriously cut down on ventilation. This isn’t just a comfort issue; it’s a health one too. Stale air can lead to mustiness and even aggravate respiratory conditions. So let’s keep the air flow going and those shutters down when the skies are clear!
Keeping Up Appearances (And Integrity)
Here’s something else to consider: the integrity of your shutters. Continuous exposure to sun, rain, and wind can wear down even the toughest materials. You might find yourself facing rust, corrosion, or other wear-and-tear that could compromise your shutters’ effectiveness just when you need them most.
Neighborhood Charm
And let’s not forget about curb appeal. Shutters are functional, but let’s be honest—they’re not always the most charming accessory for your home. Keeping your house looking friendly and inviting (and maintaining property value) means letting your shutters take a break during the off-season.
Keeping It Legal
Last but not least, it’s important to play by the rules. Many areas have codes that regulate the use of hurricane shutters to ensure everyone’s safety and comfort. It’s a good idea to check with your local authorities to make sure you’re not only safe but also on the right side of the law (and not inadvertently racking up fines).
Wrapping It Up
So, while it might seem convenient to just leave those hurricane shutters up all year, it’s really in your best interest (and everyone else’s) to take them down once hurricane season winds down. Your home will be safer, brighter, and airier—plus, you’ll be ready to weather the next storm with shutters that are as effective as they are compliant.
Need more advice or help with your hurricane protection needs? Contact Brevard Shutters & Accessories. We’ve got over 7 years of experience in making homes safe and storm-ready, not to mention a showroom where you can check out all the options we offer. Let’s make sure you’re prepared, protected, and still loving your home’s look and feel!