Mobile, Alabama is the third most populous city in the Southern United States, and it is located on the Gulf of Mexico. Because of its proximity to the warm gulf waters, Mobile’s climate is mild and subtropical, with an annual temperature of 68 degrees. It is often affected by major storms and hurricanes, also because of the close waters of the Gulf of Mexico.
In 1969, Hurricane Camille flooded part of the city, even though it hit well to the west. Ten years later, Mobile sustained heavy damage from Hurricane Frederick, and Hurricane Ivan devastated the city in 2004, causing heavy damage with its 130 mph winds.
Smart homeowners in Mobile put hurricane shutters on their windows and doors. The most important thing you can do to protect your home during a storm is cover the places where wind and rain can enter, and hurricane shutters are the best way to do this. While some homeowners have in the past used temporary solutions, this is not recommended by experts. Hurricane shutters are rated for missile impact resistance, and can withstand high winds. They also keep the major pressure changes of the hurricane from damaging your home. Pressure changes inside the home, when not regulated by a window covering, can actually rip off roofs and tear walls down.
Hurricane shutters come in a variety of styles and prices, and can be matched to your home, both with their color and their style. There are different price points, as well, and knowing your options can help you make the wisest choice. The most popular types of hurricane shutters are:
Roll-down shutters – These are the most convenient type of shutter, because their one-touch roll-down closes your shutters quickly in the face of the storm, with no messing with latches. They also come with a manual crank to use in case of power outages.
Bahama shutters – Bahama shutters have an island feel and style, and attach to the top of windows. When cranked out, they provide your house with shade and air flow, and in the closed position, give you protection from the storm.
Accordion shutters – Accordion shutters attach to the side of windows and roll out accordion style when in use. They fold up completely when not needed.
Colonial shutters – A popular style in the South, Colonial shutters are a beautiful addition to your home. They affix to the sides of windows and close easily when a storm is imminent.
No matter what type of hurricane shutter that you decide upon, they are a necessity for home protection if you live in a hurricane zone. In places like Mobile, they protect your home from the high winds, pressure changes, and wind-borne debris that hurricanes and tropical storms bring with them.
