Accordion shutters are among the most popular residential window protection. Shutters create a barrier between the inside and outside, protecting your family and possessions from heat, cold, wind, rain, hail and more.

What are accordion shutters?

accordion shutters consist of one or more panels that slide up horizontally in the frame to cover an opening. Accordions are typically constructed from wood with a metal frame. A panel may be made from slatted fabric or solid material – like glass – which is often divided into sections with each section consisting of one horizontal slat to allow for air circulation.

They’re easy to install

To install an accordion, you merely mark and cut the wood frame to fit the opening. You then wrap and knot the fabric. You may want to hang a drop cloth underneath the frames before starting. Once installed, you pull down on each of the slats, which will expand and contract in the frame, creating a tight seal between your home and storm or rain. Just remember: It is not airtight – so expect rain to continue seeping through your window.

The need for protection from moisture

Accordion shutters will protect your house from rain, hail, snow and wind. They’re often used on doors as well as windows. Windows are often the most vulnerable part of a home and accordions help to prevent mold, mildew and rot from forming inside your home.

Accordions also offer UV protection

Accordions should be installed on the West-facing side of a house – or any window that receives direct sunlight. Because there are horizontal slats in place, they provide a barrier between the sun’s rays and the interior of your home. While accordions won’t block the sun’s harmful UV rays, their slats allow for enough ventilation to keep your home cool.

How do you decide which accordion shutters to buy?

There are many different types of accordion shutters varying in price, features and materials. There are vertical accordion shutter systems in various sizes, some can be operated from the inside as well as from the outside, and others have multiple panels that can open and close independently.

While the most affordable options are simple wood slats, you can choose from a variety of materials and designs. You will also find that there are several different types of materials to choose from. Wood shutters are the most basic type of accordion. They are custom cut and then wrapped with fabric. The wood slats may be solid or have a see-through design that allows for air to circulate. They’re generally not very expensive, but they don’t always match the artistic quality of other types of shutters.