If you want to protect your home from damage, then installing shutters can be a great investment. Shutters can also be a good energy improvement for your home. When choosing the shutters you have installed on your home, you have a lot of choices when it comes to the styles and functionality of these improvements. The following step-by-step guide will help you choose and install the right shutters for storm protection and energy efficiency for your home.
1. Evaluate The Windows, Doors, And Openings In Your Home Where You May Need Shutters
You will want to start your project by evaluating the windows and other openings in your home. You will want to install shutters that provide protection from storms on windows that have the large exposed glass. Storm shutters are not the only option, and you may want to install more decorative plantation shutters for the front façade of your home and consider options like colonial shutters for interior design and to control natural light in your home.
2. Decide On The Style Of Shutters That You Install In Different Areas Of Your Home
There are many different choices when it comes to the style of shutters you can have installed, which can be on the exterior or as interior window treatments. For the exterior, the shutter options include:
- Roller-style shutters
- Plantation shutters
- Storm shutters
- Bahama-style shutters
On the interior of your windows, the colonial-style shutters can be a good choice for attractive window treatments and energy-efficient improvements.
3. Removing Old Materials From Openings That Will Be In The Way When Installing Shutters
The openings of windows, doors, and other areas where shutters are going to be installed will need to be prepared. First, double-check the measurements of the openings and shutters that have been ordered to ensure they are correct. When you have check measurements, clean the openings, and remove any materials like moldings, decorations, or old faux shutters that will be in the way when installing the new shutters.
4. Installing Hardware And Mechanical Wiring Installations Needed For Some Types Of Shutters
Sometimes, there is hardware that needs to be installed before the shutter installation can be completed. This is common with roller-style shutters that will need to have a box installed above the opening. In addition, if the shutters will have automated controls, they will need to be wired and the controls will also need to be installed before the shutters.
5. Final Installation And Testing Of Your New Shutters To Ensure They Are Working To Protect Your Home
The last step in the process is the installation of the shutters. The new shutters need to be fitted to the opening and then tested to make sure they are working properly. If you are using more traditional shutters, they only need to be opened and closed to ensure they fit correctly. When you are using automated or roller shutters, you will want to test the controls of shutters to ensure they are working correctly.
These are some of the things that you will want to consider when choosing the shutters to protect your home from storms and improve energy efficiency. If you are ready to improve your home with new shutters, contact a shutter service and talk to them about some of these options for the improvements to your home.
