DIY vs Contractor Hurricane Shutter Installation
Posted by Michael Joiner on
One of the most common questions homeowners ask when ordering hurricane shutters is: Should I install them myself or hire a professional? The answer depends on the type of shutter, your skill level, and your local building code requirements. In this 2026 guide, we break down the pros and cons of DIY vs. professional installation.
Shutter Types That Are DIY-Friendly
Installation time and difficulty depend on the product, opening, wall construction, access and electrical work. Follow the product documents and local requirements. Use a qualified contractor or electrician when the work is outside your experience or local rules require one.
Shutter Types That Require Professional Installation
Accordion shutters require precise mounting to the wall structure. Rolling shutters are the most complex to install, especially motorized models that require electrical wiring. Bahama and colonial shutters also require professional mounting.
Pros of DIY Installation
The main advantage is cost savings. You also have full control over the timeline and can work at your own pace.
Cons of DIY Installation
Installation time and difficulty depend on the product, opening, wall construction, access and electrical work. Follow the product documents and local requirements. Use a qualified contractor or electrician when the work is outside your experience or local rules require one.
Our Recommendation
For storm panel deployment, DIY is perfectly fine. For the initial installation of any permanently mounted shutter system, we strongly recommend hiring a licensed contractor.
Order from Shutters By Empire
Product approvals: Impact ratings and approval coverage depend on the exact product, configuration, dimensions, fasteners, substrate and installation. Confirm the current approval documents for the specific item before relying on it for hurricane protection. Decorative non-impact products are not substitutes for approved impact protection.
Empire Shutters serves customers from South Florida and ships products throughout the United States and internationally. Customers complete installation themselves or hire their own contractor or handyman. The office reviews custom dimensions, options and freight before the final order is approved.
Questions to answer before ordering hurricane shutters
A useful quote starts with more than a product name. Record the rough opening width and height, the surrounding mounting surface, wall material, nearby obstructions and how the opening is used. Photos can help the office understand conditions that measurements alone do not show.
- Which shutter family best matches the opening, budget and desired deployment method?
- What approval documents, permits and installation details apply at the project address?
- Who will install the product, and how will freight and site access be handled?
Compare current examples in the hurricane shutters collection. For custom dimensions, enter your opening measurements in the custom quote tool. The office will review measurements, colors, hardware, changes, shipping and the final total with you before payment.