Invest in energy-efficient windows to lower your monthly power bills. These windows reduce drafts and cold air, block dangerous UV rays, and insulate your home to cut AC and heating costs.
Window grid patterns are an easy way to add character to your home’s windows. Depending on your personal taste, you can choose from several styles.
Hurricane Shutters
Hurricane shutters can be installed over all the openings in your home to protect them from wind, water, and debris during a storm. They’re a great option for homeowners in “hurricane alley,” and may save you money on your insurance premium.
These shutters can be deployed within minutes and require minimal setup before a storm hits. They can also reduce glare and prevent heat and UV rays from entering your house. They’re available in a variety of colors and styles, including accordion, Bahama, and Colonial shutters.
These shutters are more expensive than fabric shutters, but offer better protection and a higher return on investment. They’re also a deterrent to break-ins because they make it more difficult for thieves to access your windows and doors.
Bahama Shutters
The Bahama shutter style provides a distinct Caribbean look to homes and is one of the most popular styles of hurricane-rated shutters. They feature a wide variety of color options and are built for durability and strength. They also don’t have the small gaps found in other types of shutters that can let in unwanted heat, light, and UV rays.
Exterior Bahama shutters are available in solid premium woods including Red Grandis, Cedar, and Mahogany. These durable timbers are kiln-dried and responsibly sourced.
When closed, these awning-style shutters angle back against your window frames. This obstructs the view outside when in use, but they protect against severe weather and break-in risks. They can be installed over up to eight 24 x 42-inch windows per house for an average cost of $20 to $35 a square foot for materials and labor.
Colonial Shutters
Designed for traditional and Southern style homes, Colonial shutters look great and won’t ruin your home’s curb appeal with unsightly storm protection. They’re durable, easy to use, and require little maintenance, making them a great choice for anyone looking for aesthetically pleasing and high-quality hurricane protection.
Like Bahama shutters, they come on top-mounted hinges and can be opened or closed at the touch of a finger. They’re also energy efficient and provide shade, lowering your electricity bills. However, like plantation shutters, they can’t be used to protect doors and are best suited for windows. They’re also more expensive than other permanent shutters.
Craftsman Shutters
Replacing old, outdated windows with new energy-efficient models can help you save on your electricity bills and reduce greenhouse gas emissions. Window installation pros can provide expert advice and recommendations to match your home’s style and budget.
Bahama shutters are a popular hurricane shutter option that provides both style and strength to Louisiana homes. Their top-mounted hinge design allows them to swing open and closed with minimal effort.
Craftsman painted shutters have a timeless, elegant look that complements nearly any personal decorating style. Their soft, sturdy frames are available in a wide range of colors and include arch top and transom shutter-top options to perfectly accent shaped windows. Their louvers offer full light control, too. These beautiful window features are a great way to improve your home’s curb appeal.
Diamond Grid Shutters
Window grids are a big part of the style of your house. Whether you want to go for a Colonial look or something more Arts and Crafts, there are a variety of options available. You can also choose windows with a diamond-shaped grid for a more Victorian look.
The diamond grid pattern is a popular option for Victorian homes and homes that want to mimic classic European architecture. It is not as common as other modern grid patterns, but it is a great option for many homeowners who prefer a more ornate window style.
Another popular option is the prairie window grid, which has a thin grid around the edges of the window with crosses at each corner. This design leaves more open glass area in the middle of the sash and works well with double-hung, casement, and picture windows.