Rolling window shutters provide security, savings

Dear Jim: Our house has many windows for openness, but we don’t feel secure and we lack privacy. Also a window was blown in during a storm last year. Will installing disappearing-type rolling window shutters help? – Bob M.

Dear Bob: Installing rolling window shutters will accomplish all your goals and cut your utility bills as an added bonus. They have been popular for decades in coastal areas prone to hurricanes. Now with more security and efficiency concerns, their popularity is growing throughout the country.

Rolling shutters are custom-sized for installation over any window or sliding glass door. They are operated from indoors by a pull strap, crank or electric motor.

There are new electronic controls that automatically raise and lower them individually or in groups from a hand-held remote control.

Rolling shutters use a design concept similar to a rolltop desk. There are individual long horizontal slats (often 1 to 2 inches high) that slide in vertical tracks on each side of the window.

When they are opened, they roll up into a small (8-inch square) aluminum storage box mounted above the window. For tall windows, the box can be totally hidden inside the roof soffit.

Each slat has interlocking flanges on the top and bottom to connect them together. These block noise, light, wind and hazardous objects. The slats have some insulation value, but much of the increased energy efficiency also results from the dead air space the shutter creates.

Each slat flange has tiny horizontal open slots. When you begin to raise the shutter, the slats separate before the bottom actually starts to lift. This exposes the slots to allow for air ventilation and light without losing privacy. The shutter is not as resistant to impact in this position though.

The shutters are available in many colors. Wood-grained ones are particularly attractive. Since they are hidden in the storage box and totally out of sight when opened, you can install them on just a few windows without it looking odd. First-floor windows are most commonly done.

There are several basic slat materials from which to choose: PVC, rolled aluminum and extruded aluminum. PVC is often used for small windows.

Rolled aluminum (foam-filled) works well for larger windows. Extruded aluminum is more for commercial or very large windows or doors.

Another option is a horizontal folding shutter that many of the same manufacturers produce. These shutters open accordion style and are strong enough to meet hurricane-area building codes.

They can be used on windows, but they are often used over wider sliding-glass patio doors. When opened, they fold into a surprisingly small width and are almost imperceptible beside the door.

Write for (instantly download – www.dulley.com) Update Bulletin No. 883 – buyer’s guide of 14 rolling shutter manufacturers listing slat materials, sizes, colors, insulation, controls, convenient/security features, prices, and an efficiency chart. Please include $3 and a business-size SASE, and send to James Dulley, 6906 Royalgreen Drive, Cincinnati, OH 45244.