Getting measured and quoted can happen months ahead of storm season, but how fast the actual panels arrive and go up depends on the product type, how many openings there are, and manufacturer backlogs.
- Removal and safe disposal of your heavy, rusted, or bent existing shutters.
- Selection of high-grade aluminum panels and marine-grade stainless steel fasteners.
- Full coordination of the Texas Department of Insurance windstorm inspection and WPI-8 paperwork.
- Custom sizing for standard home windows, large sliding doors, and rural barn openings.
- Installation of manual overrides on all motorized systems for use during power outages.
- Detailed demonstration showing you how to lock, deploy, and maintain your new system.
Questions people ask about hurricane shutter replacement
Do I really need a WPI-8 certificate just for replacing storm shutters?
Yes, the Texas Department of Insurance requires inspections for most structural changes along the coast, including shutter replacements. Local installers work with windstorm inspectors to verify the installation meets wind-load codes. This documentation is necessary to keep your windstorm insurance policy active.
Will motorized roll-down shutters still work if the power goes out before a storm?
Standard motorized shutters will not run without electricity from the grid. Because of this, you should always replace them with systems that include a manual hand-crank override. This simple backup tool allows you to secure your home even during a blackout.
How long does it take one person to close replaced shutters when a storm is coming?
Accordion and motorized roll-down replacements take less than ten minutes for one person to secure the entire house. If you choose removable storm panels, it can take several hours of heavy lifting and screw tightening to complete the job.
What are my options if my HOA bans plywood and requires a specific look?
Many Coastal Bend neighborhoods ban plywood and boarding. Your best alternatives are permanently mounted accordion shutters or roll-downs that tuck away into small, paintable overhead boxes. These systems can be color-matched to your home trim to satisfy strict neighborhood rules.
When is the best time of year to schedule a shutter replacement?
You should schedule your replacement during the winter or early spring. If you wait until a storm is named in the Gulf, factory lead times spike and local crews are fully booked, leaving your home unprotected.
How does salt air affect the lifespan of replacement shutters in Rockport?
Salt air will destroy cheap steel hardware within a couple of seasons. High-quality aluminum shutters with stainless steel hardware can last for decades if you rinse them with fresh water twice a year to wash away salt buildup.