How to Compare Hurricane Shutter Quotes in Florida: A Contractor's Checklist
Compare the same openings and the complete project, so a smaller printed total does not hide missing work.
A lower quote may cover fewer openings, a different product or no installation. Give every bidder the same labeled opening schedule and compare the complete scope before deciding which total offers better value.
The short answer
Compare the same openings, exact products, operating options and included hardware. Then separate shutters, freight, installation, electrical work, permits and other project costs. Keep missing amounts marked pending until the responsible party confirms them.
Explore Florida Shutter Quote Checklist and get a custom quote or call 1-888-474-3555.
A completed comparison shows why scope matters
This fictional example uses invented amounts to demonstrate the calculation, not current shutter prices.
| Proposal | Stated scope | Comparable total |
|---|---|---|
| A | $4,000 supply + $500 confirmed freight + $1,800 separate installation | $6,300 for ten openings |
| B | $6,000 including the same supply, freight and installation | $6,000 for ten openings |
| C | $3,500 supply only, patio doors omitted | Pending: only eight openings and missing project costs |
If the products and responsibilities really match, B costs $300 less than the completed A scope. C cannot yet be compared. Ask for the omitted doors and remaining costs before ranking it. The smallest printed total was not enough to decide.
Give every bidder the same opening schedule
Label openings W1, W2 and D1, then put those IDs on measurements, photographs and every quote request. Record product type, operation, finish, quantity and removal work. Have the responsible installer confirm the requested measurements and mounting conditions before final approval.
Keep a dated version. If you add a door or change a product, send the same revision to each bidder. Otherwise the totals describe different jobs.
Confirm the exact product and documents
Ask for manufacturer, model, finish, operation, hardware and the relevant product approval and installation documents. Decorative and impact-rated Bahama or Colonial products are different proposals. A style name does not establish storm suitability.
Use the Florida Product Approval search and applicable Miami-Dade records, then have the appropriate project professional review the proposed configuration. Leave uncertain mounting conditions unresolved until checked. The approval checklist helps organize the handoff.
List the project costs and responsibilities
For each line, mark included, excluded, allowance or pending. An unstated amount is not zero. Hurricane Shutters Florida supplies shutters; freight is reviewed by the office and installation is arranged separately.
- Shutters, tracks, hardware, controls and finish.
- Freight, delivery access, unloading and applicable tax.
- Installation, removal, electrical work and required permit or inspection steps.
- Product warranty, separate workmanship warranty and change-order terms.
- Production, shipping and installation estimates, each with its conditions.
Check the installer and final version
Where relevant, verify the installer through the Florida DBPR license service. Request insurance information, relevant experience and a written scope. Confirm who handles permits, inspections and product or workmanship concerns.
Before approving the order, reconcile the final opening schedule, dimensions, model, finish, hardware, freight and total. Retain the approved version and get changes in writing. Start with one incomplete quote today and ask for the missing line items before comparing its total.
Common questions
Why are two hurricane shutter quotes so different?
They may cover different openings, products, operation, hardware or services. Compare the opening schedule and included line items before judging the total.
Is the lowest product quote the lowest installed cost?
Not necessarily. Add confirmed freight and the separate costs of installation and other required work. Leave unresolved amounts visible until the responsible party provides them.
Can I use glass measurements to order custom shutters?
Do not assume so. Follow the supplier's measuring instructions for the selected product and mounting setup, and confirm final dimensions before approving manufacture.
Does Florida approval mean a shutter fits every opening?
No. Review the exact model and applicable documents, and have the responsible project professional check the proposed size, attachment and conditions.
Does Hurricane Shutters Florida install the shutters?
The company supplies shutters. Customers arrange installation separately with the installer or contractor they hire. The office reviews freight and the final order details.
What should I do before placing the order?
Resolve missing scope items, confirm the exact product and documentation, verify final measurements and get the final quote version approved in writing.