Shoppers have lots of options for hurricane protection

Consumers shopping for storm-protection shutters now have more options than ever. In fact, there are so many choices, it can be overwhelming. Rick Collins, president and CEO of Rolsafe International LLC, offers the following tips for selecting products that best meet your individual needs:

When choosing shutters, shop with a reputable dealer whose products are in compliance with all current building codes. This will help guarantee insurance discounts and the most reliable protection for your home. Ask to see licenses and other credentials.

Prioritize your needs. While storm protection is the ultimate goal, other factors such as budget, ease of use and aesthetics will heavily influence the purchasing decision. Decide what's most important to you.

Consider your home's unique features. Some homes are well served by one type of shutter for all openings, while others call for a variety of products for optimum protection. For example, high small windows may be best protected with impactresistant glass, while a lanai may be better served by roll downs.

When it's time for installation, employ only an experienced, professional contractor. For your convenience, also select a contractor that will obtain the necessary building permits for you and coordinate inspections.