Automated Hurricane Protection in Clearwater, St. Pete, and Area

In hurricane-prone Florida, particularly in coastal cities like Clearwater and St. Pete, hurricane protection is a necessity for most homeowners. For those who live part-time in the Sunshine State, having reliable automated hurricane protection can offer peace of mind during the storm season from June to November. But with numerous options available, how do you choose the right solution? And equally important, how do you find a trusted provider for installation?

At West Shore Construction, we simplify this process by focusing on your unique needs, budget, and preferences. With over 35 years of experience in the Tampa Bay area, West Shore Construction has built a reputation for delivering high-quality hurricane protection with a commitment to detail and superior service. Whether you’re interested in motorized rolling shutters, retractable hurricane screens, or other forms of automated hurricane protection, we’ll ensure you have the most effective solution installed with precision and care.

Why Automated Hurricane Protection Matters

Your home is likely one of your most valuable assets, and protecting it from Florida’s unpredictable hurricane threats is critical. Although recent years have spared many parts of Clearwater, St. Pete, Bellaire Beach, and Redington Shores, the reality is that it’s impossible to predict when and where the next significant storm will hit. Taking proactive steps to secure your property can mitigate potential damage and safeguard your family’s wellbeing.

With automated hurricane protection, such as motorized rolling shutters or retractable hurricane screens, homeowners can quickly prepare for an impending storm at the flip of a switch, minimizing stress and physical effort. These systems are not only easy to use but also discreet when not in use, preserving your home’s appearance. However, there is no universal solution for hurricane protection, so it’s essential to understand your options to determine what fits best with your needs.

Choosing the Right Hurricane Protection for Your Home

Selecting the best hurricane protection solution involves several key considerations, including the level of protection, cost, ease of deployment, aesthetics, and visibility. Here’s a guide to help you determine what’s most important for your home:

Level of Protection

The primary purpose of hurricane protection is, of course, to safeguard your home from the storm’s force. Automated hurricane protection options like motorized rolling shutters and retractable screens provide a high level of security. Depending on your specific needs and budget, you may also explore different materials, thicknesses, and designs for optimal strength.

Cost

Hurricane protection solutions can range widely in cost, starting from around $16 per square foot for more basic options like hurricane fabric. Automated solutions, such as motorized rolling shutters and retractable hurricane screens, generally involve a higher upfront investment but often come with additional benefits, including potential insurance discounts. West Shore Construction can help you balance cost and protection level to find a solution that works best within your budget.

Ease of Deployment

Unlike traditional solutions like plywood, which require time and effort to install before each storm, automated hurricane protection solutions offer immediate convenience. Motorized shutters and retractable screens can be deployed with the flip of a switch or remote control, reducing the stress of last-minute storm preparations.

Aesthetic Appeal

Homeowners often want hurricane protection that doesn’t interfere with their home’s exterior look. Automated options like motorized rolling shutters and retractable hurricane screens are designed to be as discreet as possible. With over 185 color options available, including Bahama and colonial shutter styles, you can find an option that complements your home’s aesthetics while offering robust protection.

Visibility and Light

Some homeowners prioritize maintaining visibility and natural light, even during a storm. Retractable hurricane screens, for example, allow light to enter and offer a view out, even if there’s a power failure. This can create a less confined feel indoors compared to other protection options, such as motorized rolling shutters, which tend to block light entirely when in use.

A Closer Look at Automated Hurricane Protection Options

For homeowners in Clearwater, St. Pete, and surrounding areas, two primary types of automated hurricane protection stand out: retractable hurricane screens and motorized rolling shutters.

Retractable Hurricane Screens

Retractable hurricane screens offer an ideal blend of strength, convenience, and aesthetic appeal. Powered by a motor, these screens are deployed with minimal effort and are adaptable to various home features, including windows, doors, and even larger spaces like lanais. The beauty of retractable hurricane screens lies in their ability to provide protection without significantly altering the home’s appearance.

Once deployed, the screens offer a layer of protection that shields your home from flying debris and high winds. They are also versatile enough for daily use in keeping out insects or providing shade. When not in use, retractable screens are virtually invisible, making them a popular choice for homeowners who want effective protection without sacrificing visual appeal.

A significant advantage of retractable screens is their ability to maintain visibility and light entry. If the power fails, you can still see outside, which can be comforting during a storm. While retractable hurricane screens may be a more significant investment, the ease of use, high level of protection, and added benefits make them a worthwhile choice for many.

Motorized Rolling Shutters

Motorized rolling shutters are another highly durable and effective form of automated hurricane protection. Constructed from robust aluminum, these shutters provide exceptional protection against high winds and flying debris. They are designed to withstand even the most severe storms, making them a valuable asset for homeowners in hurricane-prone areas.

Similar to retractable screens, motorized rolling shutters can be deployed with the touch of a button, offering quick and convenient protection. When not in use, they roll up into a discreet housing, preserving your home’s appearance. However, unlike screens, motorized rolling shutters block both light and visibility when deployed, creating a solid barrier against the storm.

Many homeowners appreciate the added strength and sense of security that motorized rolling shutters provide. The durability and reliability of aluminum construction make them an excellent choice for those who prioritize maximum protection.

Automated Hurricane Protection Installation with West Shore Construction

When it comes to hurricane protection, a high-quality installation is essential. Established in 1985, West Shore Construction has been serving the Tampa Bay area, including Clearwater, St. Pete, Sarasota, and Pasco County, with unparalleled expertise in automated hurricane protection. We work with our clients to understand their needs and provide personalized recommendations based on the highest-quality products available.

Whether you’re interested in motorized rolling shutters, retractable hurricane screens, or other hurricane protection options, our team will handle every aspect of the installation with care and attention to detail. Our certified building contractors are dedicated to ensuring your home is secure, aesthetically pleasing, and equipped to withstand Florida’s unpredictable hurricane season.

See Automated Hurricane Protection in Action

Understanding how automated hurricane protection works is essential for making an informed decision. That’s why we recommend viewing a demonstration video. This video highlights the ease of deploying motorized rolling shutters and retractable hurricane screens, showing how quickly and effortlessly you can secure your home. It also provides an up-close look at the sleek design and how each system integrates seamlessly with your home’s architecture.