by Madison West

Created on: June 19, 2008   Last Updated: July 09, 2011

When its time to decide on the style of shutters to install on your home, Bahama shutters offer many benefits to consider. Also known as Bermuda shutters, Bahama shutters have been popular in the Tropics and the southeastern coastal region of the United States. However, their popularity continues to spread beyond these areas, and for good reason.

Bahama shutters provide an important function for those in hurricane prone environments, but their benefits do not stop there.

IMPROVED CURB APPEAL

Bahama shutters add instant curb appeal to your home. They can transform your property by providing a classic Caribbean look and giving your windows a larger appearance. With a choice of material including wood, fiberglass, and aluminum, you can find just the right style to meet your needs. Many historical districts have now approved the use of aluminum Bahama shutters. The shutters are available in a wide variety of colors and can also be ordered primed and ready to paint.

STORM PROTECTION

The unique design of Bahama shutters offers important and practical storm protection. Different from louvered shutters, Bahama shutters have a horizontal hinge and adjustable telescopic arms that allow the shutters to be propped open at an angle. This system also allows the owner to close the shutters in a matter of seconds in the event of severe weather. This saves home owners valuable time that might have otherwise been spent boarding up windows. Most manufacturers provide Bahama shutters that either meet or exceed the strict Metro-Dade building code regulations for hurricane safety. Many insurance companies now offer discounts to clients who install storm protective shutters. Besides protecting from hurricanes, Bahama shutters also do well in northern and western climates, providing protection from cold winds and dust.

SECURITY

Bahama shutters offer privacy that you cannot get from other shutter designs. By opening your windows and drawing your Bahama shutters closed, you can enjoy ventilation and still enjoy privacy. You will still be able to see through your shutters from inside, while those on the outside cannot. This makes Bahama shutters a great choice for patio enclosures, indoor pools, and hot tubs. When closed and fastened, Bahama shutters not only protect your windows from storms and flying debris, but from would-be burglars and intruders, as well. Bahama shutters provide security without sacrificing beauty.

ENERGY SAVINGS

In the opened position, Bahama shutters act as awnings. This provides protection from the sun and reduces the amount of air conditioning needed to cool your home. The telescopic side arms allow you to adjust the shutters to your personal ventilation and solar protection needs. In time, the shutters pay for themselves by cutting energy expenses.

SUN DAMAGE PREVENTION

Another benefit of Bahama shutters can be seen inside your home. The "awning" design of Bahama shutters blocks the damaging effects of the sun. This prolongs the life of your carpets, drapes, and furniture by protecting them from fading. This, in turn, adds to the money-saving benefits of installing Bahama shutters.

Many manufacturers now offer convenient online ordering, custom sizes to accommodate all of your windows, and the choice of fully functioning shutters or fixed decorative styles. If choosing to do-it-yourself, you will be pleased with the ease of installation.

Whether you choose to install Bahama shutters for their practical benefits or their aesthetic appeal, you are sure to enjoy the value they bring to your pockets and your property.

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