07.21.2025
When protecting your home from nature's most destructive forces, choosing the right hurricane protection isn't just about weathering the storm. It's about safeguarding your loved ones while maintaining comfort and style. For homeowners seeking home protection, understanding the key differences between hurricane screens and hurricane shutters is essential for making an informed decision that delivers unparalleled strength and peace of mind.
Understanding Today's Hurricane Protection Landscape
With hurricane-related claims comprising nearly 9% of Q4 2024 insurance claims, the need for robust, code-compliant protection has never been more critical. Modern homeowners face many options but two standout from the rest: hurricane screens that provide crystal-clear views with stormproof strength and hurricane shutters that offer maximum physical barrier protection against extreme weather.
What Are Hurricane Screens?
Hurricane screens represent a forward-thinking defense against storms, featuring high-tensile 304-grade stainless steel mesh construction that meets the stringent large missile impact test for Category 5 hurricanes. QMi's hurricane-rated security screens are engineered to withstand extreme conditions, offering robust protection from flying debris while maintaining crystal-clear views and allowing light and air into your home.
Key Hurricane Screen Features
- Custom-made to fit your specific window size and shape
- Strong stainless-steel mesh cannot be cut with a razor or pried by a crowbar
- Hurricane-rated and code-compliant egress capability
- Allow light and air while providing complete protection
- Projectile resistant and maintain visibility during storms
- Perfect for: Homeowners seeking year-round protection without sacrificing natural light or airflow.
What Are Hurricane Shutters?
Hurricane shutters deliver the strongest physical barrier available, with QMi's Qompact Hurricane Shutters featuring the world's smallest shutter box and precision-engineered systems that provide unparalleled hurricane-rated strength. These shutters are tested to the strictest standards, including Miami-Dade County approval and Florida Building Code High-Velocity Hurricane Zone compliance.
Key Hurricane Shutter Features:
- Patented nesting design and bushing-guide system for reliable operation
- Industry's smallest shutter box minimizes visible footprint
- Hinge and slat design reduces risk of water and sand infiltration
- Smooth, hassle-free operation with multiple control options
- The industry's best warranty
- Perfect for: Homeowners prioritizing maximum storm protection and defense against the most aggressive attacks.
Standards + Certifications
Both QMi hurricane screens and shutters undergo rigorous testing to meet the most stringent hurricane testing standards.
Hurricane Screens
- Florida Building Code (FBC)
- Texas Department of Insurance (TDI)
- International Building Code / International Residential Code (IBC / IRC)
Hurricane Shutters
- Florida Building Code (FBC)
- Miami-Dade County Notice of Approval (NOA)
- Texas Department of Insurance (TDI)
- Florida Building Code High-Velocity Hurricane Zone (FBC HVHZ)
- International Building Code / International Residential Code (IBC / IRC)
Security Performance
Hurricane Screens
- Cut, impact, and pry resistant
- Resist projectiles and forced entry attempts
- Provides burglary protection while maintaining visibility
- Subtle security with style
Hurricane Shutters
- Engineered to repel aggressive attacks
- Robust slat and rail retention designed for maximum strength
- Complete barrier against both weather and security threats
- Formidable defense when deployed
Energy Efficiency Benefits
Hurricane Screens
- Block the sun's heat while allowing air circulation
- Reduce cooling costs without sacrificing natural ventilation
- UV protection prevents furniture fading and interior damage
Hurricane Shutters
- Complete heat blockage when deployed
- Reduce exterior noise for enhanced comfort
- Insulation properties contribute to energy savings
Professional Installation + Warranty Coverage
Both QMi hurricane screens and shutters require professional installation to ensure optimal performance and code compliance. QMi provides best-in-class warranty coverage.
- Hurricane Screens: Comprehensive warranty on hardware, mesh, and frame finish
- Hurricane Shutters: Industry-leading warranty on parts, motors, and finish
Making the Right Choice for Your Home
Choose Hurricane Screens if you want
- Continuous protection with visibility and airflow
- Subtle security that doesn't alter your home's appearance
- Minimal maintenance and operational requirements
Choose Hurricane Shutters if you want
- Maximum physical barrier against extreme weather
- Flexible operation with manual, motorized, and smart-home integration
- Proven track record of unparalleled strength in severe conditions
Expert Recommendations
Whether you choose hurricane screens or hurricane shutters, QMi delivers unmatched residential protection that elegantly blends aesthetics with functionality. Our advanced physical security products are designed to fortify your home from front to back, ensuring absolute home protection that leaves no room for vulnerabilities.
Experience the gold standard with QMi's forward-thinking defense against storms. Our precision-engineered systems provide superior strength, enhanced durability, and incredible versatility to safeguard your home from nature's most devastating forces.
Ready to protect your home? Contact QMi today for a personalized consultation and discover which solution delivers the ultimate peace of mind for your family and investment.
