Motorized Hurricane Shutters vs. Hurricane Screens: What’s the Difference?
When it comes to protecting your home during hurricane season, two of the most advanced and trusted solutions on the market are motorized hurricane shutters and hurricane screens. Both offer serious protection from high winds and flying debris, but they differ in how they operate, look, and feel in everyday use.
At Romano Shutters, we proudly install both systems. Here’s a side-by-side comparison to help you choose the best fit for your home.
Motorized Hurricane Shutters vs. Hurricane Screens: A Side-by-Side Comparison
Protection Level
Motorized Hurricane Shutters: Rigid double wall aluminum slats provide maximum impact resistance and security.
Hurricane Screens: Made from high-tensile, flexible fabric that absorbs and disperses wind and impact energy.
Visibility During Storm
Motorized Shutters: Blocks the view entirely when deployed, however there is an option to have multiple view-ports to allow a minimal amount of light in and to see out when standing near the system.
Hurricane Screens: Maintains visibility and natural light at all times throughout the entire opening.
Operation
Motorized Shutters: Operated with a wall switch, remote control, or smart device app. These can also be manually operated on smaller openings.
Hurricane Screens: Like shutters, screens may be Operated with a wall switch, remote control, or smart device app. However, most openings including larger ones can be manually operated.
Aesthetic Impact
Motorized Shutters: Visible track and housing system; available in various finishes.
Hurricane Screens: Like shutters, screens have a visible track and housing system; available in various finishes, however, the housings are smaller thus less intrusive than hurricane shutters.
Airflow and Light
Motorized Shutters: Seals off airflow and blocks natural light with the exception of view-ports.
Hurricane Screens: Allows airflow and light to pass through, keeping spaces bright and breezy.
Best Use Cases
Motorized Shutters: Windows, doors, garage openings, and anywhere maximum security is needed.
Hurricane Screens: Lanais, patios, balconies, and large outdoor openings where you want protection without losing your view so long as your glass is not within at least 12" of the screen.
Permanence
Motorized Shutters: Retractable and unobtrusive when not in use.
Hurricane Screens: Retractable and unobtrusive when not in use.
Noise & Insulation
Motorized Shutters: Excellent for reducing noise and improving temperature control.
Hurricane Screens: Offers limited insulation or soundproofing.
Customization Options
Motorized Shutters: Custom-sized and offered in 5 neutral colors.
Hurricane Screens: Custom-sized and offered in neutral fabric tones, however, the darker the color screen the longer it lasts.
Which Option Is Right for You?
Both systems are built to meet Florida’s strict hurricane protection standards. Choosing between them comes down to your priorities
We would be happy to come out to your home or business to further discuss which products are right for you.
Protect Your Home with Confidence
Romano Shutters offers expert guidance and installation of both motorized shutters and hurricane screens. No matter your choice, we’ll make sure your home is shielded from the storm—with style, strength, and reliability.
📞 Call us today for a free consultation (239) 458-9440
🛡️ Let Romano Shutters shield you from the storms.
About the Author
Nicholas Romano grew up in the hurricane protection industry, learning the business from the ground up. With hands-on experience in every facet—from product development and testing in Miami to service, installations, manufacturing, and sales—Nicholas brings a lifetime of expertise to his work. Following in the footsteps of his father, who founded the company, he continues the family legacy of delivering reliable, high-quality solutions to protect homes and businesses.