If you’re looking into hurricane shutters for your New Orleans home, you’ve probably noticed that prices can vary quite a bit. A set of storm panels will cost considerably less than custom Colonial shutters or a motorized roll-down system, and the size of your windows and installation requirements add to the difference. So, how much should you actually budget for hurricane protection? Let’s look at the costs of different shutter styles and what can affect the price of your project.
Average Cost of Hurricane Shutters in New Orleans
Hurricane shutters in New Orleans typically cost between $15.90 and $80 per square foot, depending on the shutter style, materials, and operating system. Storm panels are generally the most affordable option, while motorized roll-down shutters sit at the higher end of the price range.
Here’s a closer look at typical material costs for different hurricane shutter styles.
| Hurricane shutter type | Estimated cost per sq. ft. |
|---|---|
| Storm panels | $10–$20 |
| Accordion shutters | $15–$30 |
| Colonial shutters | $20–$35 |
| Bahama shutters | $20–$40 |
| Manual roll-down shutters | $25–$50 |
| Motorized roll-down shutters | $50–$70 |
These are general planning estimates, not guaranteed Cool-Vue prices. Things like custom fabrication, hardware, and installation can change the final quote.
Storm Panels
Storm panels are among the most affordable forms of hurricane protection, typically costing $10 to $20 per square foot. They’re removable panels made from materials such as aluminum or steel that attach to a mounting system around windows and doors.
Their lower upfront cost makes them appealing to homeowners who need to protect several openings without investing in permanent shutters. However, storm panels require storage when they’re not in use and must be manually installed before a storm. If you have numerous windows to cover, preparing your home can take some time.
Accordion Shutters
Accordion shutters generally cost $15 to $30 per square foot. They’re permanently mounted beside windows or doors and fold out along tracks when it’s time to secure the openings.
Although they cost more than basic storm panels, accordion shutters are easier to prepare for a storm because there’s no need to retrieve and install separate panels. Their operation is relatively straightforward, and one person can typically secure an opening without much difficulty.
Colonial Shutters
Colonial shutters typically cost $20 to $35 per square foot. These exterior shutters are hinged on either side of a window and close over the glass when needed.
Their traditional appearance makes them particularly appealing for New Orleans homes, where architectural character is often an important consideration. They remain attached to the house year-round, so there’s no need to find storage space for removable panels. Custom sizes, decorative details, and powder-coated finishes can affect the final price.
Bahama Shutters
Bahama shutters generally cost $20 to $40 per square foot. They’re mounted above windows and angle outward to provide shade, making them useful even when hurricane season isn’t approaching.
Homeowners often choose them for their coastal appearance and additional control over sunlight and privacy. Custom designs and finishes can increase the cost, but they also give you more flexibility when matching shutters to your home’s exterior.
Roll-Down Hurricane Shutters
Roll-down shutters typically cost $25 to $70 per square foot, with motorized systems generally falling toward the higher end. They retract into a housing above the window or door and travel along vertical tracks when deployed.
Manual systems are usually less expensive, while motorized options offer the convenience of operating shutters with a switch or remote control. The added motor and electrical requirements increase the upfront investment, but they can make a considerable difference for homes with large windows, sliding doors, or multiple openings.
What Affects the Cost of Hurricane Shutters?
The shutter style gives you a starting point, but several other details can influence how much you’ll pay for hurricane shutters in New Orleans.
Number and Size of Windows
The more windows and doors you want to cover, the more your project will cost. A home with 10 standard-sized windows will naturally need fewer shutters than one with 20 windows, multiple sliding doors, or large picture windows. The size and shape of each opening also affect the price. Standard sizes are generally more straightforward to manufacture, while oversized or unusually shaped windows may need custom-fabricated shutters and specialized hardware, adding to the overall cost.
Materials and Custom Features
Aluminum is a popular choice for hurricane shutters because it’s lightweight, durable, and resistant to corrosion. It’s particularly well suited to Louisiana’s humid climate, where exterior materials are regularly exposed to moisture and salty coastal air.
Steel storm panels are another option, although they’re heavier and can require more effort to handle. The finish, hardware, and overall construction quality can also affect the price.
Custom colors, powder-coated finishes, decorative details, and motorized operation are additional features that may increase your upfront cost. These options can be worthwhile if you want shutters that complement your home’s exterior while providing dependable storm protection.
Installation and Labor Costs
Professional installation is another important part of your budget. Installation costs can add approximately $1,000 to $1,500 to a hurricane shutter project, depending on the number of openings, shutter type, and complexity of the work.
Contractor labor rates may average around $50 to $65 per hour, although actual rates vary. Some installations are relatively straightforward, while others require additional work to accommodate different wall materials, window configurations, or structural requirements.
Hurricane shutters need to be anchored securely to the home’s framing to hold up under strong winds. The installation must account for the structure around each opening and use the appropriate mounting hardware for the shutter system. Even well-made shutters can fail to provide adequate protection if they’re installed incorrectly, so it’s important to have the work handled by an experienced professional.
Permits and Historic District Requirements
Permits and historic district rules can also affect your project budget and timeline. New Orleans has specific building requirements for hurricane shutters, and homeowners in designated historic districts may have fewer options when it comes to exterior modifications. A roll-down shutter, for instance, might not be approved if its tracks or housing change the appearance of a historic home’s front façade.
If your home falls within a historic district, check the applicable guidelines before settling on a shutter style or ordering custom products. You may need approval for the design and placement, so it’s better to sort that out before installation is scheduled.
Get a Free Hurricane Shutter Estimate From Cool-Vue
Cool-Vue Aluminum has been manufacturing custom exterior products and installing hurricane protection for Louisiana homeowners since 1945. With more than 81 years of experience, our team understands the demands of Gulf Coast weather and offers several shutter styles to suit different homes and budgets.
We manufacture our products locally, offer custom designs and premium powder-coated finishes, and handle professional installation. Financing options are also available to help make your project more manageable.
Want to get your hurricane shutters installed by true professionals? Contact us using our form or call Cool-Vue at (504) 464-9194 to schedule your free estimate and find out how much hurricane shutters will cost for your New Orleans home.