Why Hurricane Shutters Matter - Protecting Your Home from Wind Pressure

QMI rollshutters, installed by Atlantic Breeze Storm Shutters, blend seamlessly into the elegant design of this beautiful coastal home, providing peace of mind in style.

Here at Atlantic Breeze Storm Shutters, we are family owned and operated and have been a leading expert in the hurricane industry for over 20 years. We are aware of misinformation within coastal NC, and we want to clarify so that as homeowners, you can make an informed and confident decision.

Living near the coast comes with beautiful views and a relaxed lifestyle, but it also means preparing for the very real risks of hurricanes and tropical storms. One of the most important investments you can make in your home’s safety is hurricane shutters.

Understand the Wind Rating:

Hurricane shutters and screens typically have a wind rating that indicates the level of wind they can endure without failing. These ratings are often tested according to standardized protocols like those set by the Miami-Dade County or Florida Building Code. In Miami-Dade Counties, homes are built from concrete with stricter codes and can withstand Category 4-5 hurricanes compared to stick-built homes in North Carolina that are often built to withstand Category 2-3 hurricanes.  It is very important to understand that claims that a shutter or screen can withstand 170+ mph winds are misleading.  A shutter or screen is only as strong as what it is attached to.  At Atlantic Breeze Storm Shutters, all our shutters are rated per the Miami-Dade County and Florida Building Code, however, our homes are not built to the same standard.

Why Are Hurricane Shutters So Important?

When a storm hits, the first devastating component of a hurricane is flying debris; the windows and doors that are unprotected can be breached, but it’s not just about broken glass—it’s about what happens next.  Once wind enters the home, it rapidly increases internal air pressure, pushing up against the roof and walls. This pressure imbalance can lead to catastrophic structural failure—yes, even total roof loss.

Wind Pressure: The Silent Destroyer

Many homeowners think debris is the main threat, but in reality, wind pressure is just as dangerous. It acts like a balloon inflating from the inside. Just one broken window or breached door can let wind force its way into your home, turning it into a pressure chamber.

This is why at Atlantic Breeze Storm Shutters, we install the strongest hurricane protection on the market, knowing that it is only as strong as what it is attached to.  There are many factors that play a role in the installation of our shutters, from the screw type and size, to the location of the openings, to size of the openings.

Choose the Right Protection:

At Atlantic Breeze Storm Shutters, we offer a range of tested and certified hurricane shutter systems, from traditional panels to hurricane screens to QMI Rollshutter options.  We will gladly provide engineering documentation upon request.  Our shutters are pre-assembled at the manufacturer's and tested prior to installation.  We want our customers to be as educated as possible about hurricane protection and not have a false sense of security when it comes to storms.  Our goal is to help homeowners like you feel confident and protected every storm season. Your safety is our priority—and protecting your investment starts with smart preparation and quality products.