1. What are hurricane screens?

Hurricane screens are high-strength, fabric-based storm protection systems designed to block wind, rain, and flying debris without blocking your view. Unlike metal shutters, they are made from advanced geo-synthetic fibers (like OmegaTex used in our Alutech United StormTex screens) that absorb the impact of projectiles rather than resisting them rigidly.

They are lightweight, translucent, and incredibly tough, making them the perfect solution for enclosing large openings like lanais, porches, and balconies where traditional metal shutters would be too heavy or obstructive.

2. How much do hurricane screens cost?

Rated Hurricane Screens typically cost $44 per square foot for the system itself. If you want the ultimate convenience of a motorized system, the cost is the base square footage price plus approximately $700 per opening for the motor, remote, and electrical components.

This makes them a cost-effective alternative to Rolldown Shutters ($48/sq ft) for large spans, while offering similar ease of use. You can use our online cost calculator to get a specific estimate for your patio or windows.

3. Are hurricane screens really hurricane rated?

Yes, our Alutech United StormTex screens are fully rated for High Velocity Hurricane Zones (HVHZ). They are engineered to withstand hurricane-force winds and pass stringent missile impact tests. The fabric acts like a trampoline for debris—catching and repelling it—rather than a solid wall that could dent.

It is important to distinguish these from standard bug screens or solar shades. Only a certified hurricane screen, properly installed by professionals like American Hurricane Shutters, provides the structural integrity needed to protect your home envelope.

4. Can you see through hurricane screens?

Yes, one of the biggest advantages of hurricane screens is that they are translucent. You can see out from inside your home or patio, almost like wearing a pair of sunglasses. This prevents the “cave-like” feeling that comes with solid metal panels or plywood.

From the outside, however, they appear more opaque, providing excellent privacy. This visibility allows you to watch the storm safely from the comfort of your home without feeling trapped.

5. Are hurricane screens waterproof?

Hurricane screens are highly water-resistant and deflect 95-97% of wind-driven rain, but they are not air-tight seals. Because the fabric is a mesh, it allows for safe pressure equalization. While they stop the driving force of hurricane rain that causes damage, a fine mist may still pass through in extreme conditions.

For protecting a patio or outdoor furniture, they are excellent. If you need a 100% watertight seal for a living room window, a solid shutter or impact window might be a preferred primary barrier, though many use screens effectively for both.

6. Manual vs. Motorized Screens: Which is better?

Motorized screens are the superior choice for daily use and large openings, allowing you to deploy them with a remote or smartphone app. They roll down from a discreet housing box just like a roller shade. This makes them easy to use for daily sun control or insect protection.

Manual screens are generally fixed in place or use a strap-and-buckle system. They are more affordable but require more effort to deploy before a storm. For large lanais, motorization is highly recommended for ease of operation.

7. Do hurricane screens protect against bugs and UV rays?

Yes, they serve a dual purpose as excellent insect screens and sun shades. The tight weave of the OmegaTex fabric blocks UV rays, protecting your patio furniture from fading and keeping your outdoor space cooler in the summer. They also keep out mosquitoes and flies, making your lanai usable year-round.

8. How strong is the screen fabric?

The screen material (often aramid or specialized polypropylene) is stronger than steel by weight. It is designed to stop a 2×4 flying at hurricane speeds. We often tell customers that it is similar to the material used in ballistic body armor—lightweight but incredibly resistant to tearing and impact.

9. Can hurricane screens cover large openings?

Absolutely. Hurricane screens are the best solution for wide openings like lanais, porches, and balconies. They can span distances of 20 feet or more without the need for center support posts, preserving your panoramic view of the Carolina coast.

10. What happens if the power goes out?

Our motorized hurricane screens come with a manual override option. In the event of a power outage, which is common during storms, you can use a hand crank to lower or raise the screens. You are never dependent on electricity for your safety.

11. How do I clean and maintain hurricane screens?

Maintenance is simple: wash the screens with a mild soap solution (like Dawn dish soap and water) and a soft brush, then rinse with a hose. Do not use a pressure washer, as high pressure could damage the weave.

We also recommend lubricating the side tracks with a clear silicone spray twice a year to ensure smooth operation. Visit our Maintenance Guide for full instructions.

12. What colors are available?

The screen fabric comes in various colors including black, white, beige, gray, and bronze. The aluminum housing and tracks can also be powder-coated to match your home’s trim. Darker screen colors (like black or bronze) actually offer the best visibility from the inside due to less light reflection.

13. How long does installation take?

Installation typically takes 1-3 days depending on the number of screens and electrical work required. Our professional team at American Hurricane Shutters handles everything, from mounting the housing boxes to coordinating the electrical hookup for motorized units.

14. Can I leave them down all the time?

Yes, many homeowners leave them down for extended periods for privacy, shade, and bug protection. However, if you are away for a long time, we recommend ensuring they are locked in the deployed position. They are designed to be permanent exterior fixtures.

15. Do hurricane screens rust?

The fabric itself will never rust or corrode. The tracks and housing are made of powder-coated aluminum, and we use stainless steel fasteners, making the entire system highly resistant to the salt air environment of Wrightsville Beach and Topsail Island.

16. Can I install hurricane screens myself (DIY)?

We do not recommend DIY installation for Rated Hurricane Screens. The tensioning of the fabric and the anchoring into the structure are critical for the screen to perform during a hurricane. Improper installation can lead to the screen “blowing out” of the tracks. Professional installation ensures your warranty and safety.

17. How do screens compare to glass?

Screens are unbreakable, whereas impact glass can shatter (though it won’t break out). If impact glass is hit, it spiderwebs and requires expensive replacement. If a screen is hit, it bounces back. Screens also protect the glass behind them from breaking, saving you the cost of window replacement.

18. Are they approved by HOAs?

Yes, most HOAs approve hurricane screens because they are retractable and hidden when not in use. The housing box is small and blends with the soffit. We can assist with providing specifications and samples for your Architectural Review Board application.

19. Can screens reduce my energy bills?

Yes, by blocking the sun’s heat before it hits your windows or glass doors, they significantly reduce solar heat gain. This can lower your cooling costs in the summer, making your home more energy-efficient.

20. What is the warranty on hurricane screens?

Motors typically carry a 5-year warranty, and the screen fabric often has a 10-year limited warranty against rot and degradation. American Hurricane Shutters provides a comprehensive warranty on our installation workmanship.

21. Are there different openness factors?

Yes, screen fabrics come with different “openness” percentages (e.g., 5%, 10%). A lower percentage means a tighter weave, which provides more wind/rain protection and privacy but slightly less visibility. We can help you choose the right balance for your needs.

22. How do they lock in place?

Motorized screens use a “retention track” system (like zipper tracks) that holds the fabric inside the side rails. When fully deployed, the motor locks the screen down, or you can engage manual slide locks at the bottom for extra security during a storm.

23. Can screens be used on second stories?

Yes, motorized screens are ideal for second-story balconies or windows. They eliminate the need for ladders, allowing you to secure the upper levels of your home with the push of a button.

24. Will they protect my outdoor kitchen?

Yes, screens are perfect for protecting outdoor kitchens, TVs, and furniture on your patio. By lowering the screens, you protect these expensive assets from rain, dust, and debris, reducing the need to cover or move them.

25. Do you offer clear plastic screens?

We focus on the high-strength mesh screens (OmegaTex). While clear vinyl screens exist, they often yellow over time and trap heat, creating a “greenhouse effect.” Mesh screens allow airflow, keeping the space cooler and more comfortable.

26. How quickly can they be deployed?

Motorized screens deploy in seconds. You can secure your entire home or patio in under a minute. This is a huge advantage over panels that can take hours of manual labor to hang.

27. Are they noisy in the wind?

High-quality screens are designed to be quiet. The tensioning system keeps the fabric taut, preventing the flapping noise associated with cheaper tarps or loose screens. However, in hurricane-force winds, you will hear the wind itself.

28. Can I integrate them with my smart home?

Yes, our motorized systems can be integrated with smart hubs. You can control them via smartphone apps or set schedules, giving you control even when you are away from home.

29. Where do you install hurricane screens?

We install throughout Southeastern NC and Northeastern SC. Whether you are in Jacksonville, New Bern, Wilmington, or Myrtle Beach, our team brings the showroom to you for a free consultation.

30. Why choose American Hurricane Shutters for screens?

We are experts in the specific wind loads of the Carolinas. Being a family-owned business since 2007, we don’t just sell products; we install peace of mind. We use only top-tier Alutech and Bertha components that are proven to last. View our gallery to see how beautiful these screens look on local homes.