One of the best ways to protect a home from damage in windstorms is to install shutters over all large windows

and glass
doors. Shutters protect windows from windborne objects. They also prevent structural damage caused by sudden pressure
changes when a window is broken.
Hurricane Shutter Designs
Refer to Form No. T460 for design considerations for Florida
85
90
100
110
120
130
140
150
FIGURE 1
HIGH WIND ZONES OF THE CONTIGUOUS UNITED STATES V
ASD
MPH
Notes:
1. Values are nominal design 3-second gust wind speeds, V
ASD
, in miles per hour at 33 ft above ground for Exposure C category.
2. Linear interpolation between contours is permitted.
3. Islands and coastal areas outside the last contour shall use the last wind speed contour of the coastal area.
4. Mountainous terrain, gorges, ocean promontories, and special wind regions shall be examined for unusual wind conditions.
Source: Figure R301.2(4)A, 2012 International Residential Code

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The following designs are presented as two basic alternatives: The first is to present the code minimum opening protec-
tion when such shutters are required. The requirements of the 2012 International Residential Code (IRC) and the 2012
International Building Code (IBC) are presented. They permit the use of minimum 7/16 Performance Category Rated
Sheathing as opening protection against the impact of windborne debris. Check with local building departments for
verification or clarification of requirements.
The second approach provides some design details for stronger and stiffer shutters than provided for by the code-
minimum requirements. It should be noted that these designs were developed prior to the adoption of specific standards
for shutter designs by any U.S. codes. The supports detailed for these shutters meet code requirements when mounted
according to the specifications in Table R301.2.1.2. The mounting brackets for the masonry block structures have been
tested for design wind loads but have not been impact or cyclic tested because they were developed as design guides
before these standards were developed.
1. CODE-MINIMUM SHUTTER DESIGN
IRC Section R301.2.1.2 Protection of openings. Exterior glazing in buildings located in windborne debris
regions shall be protected from windborne debris. Glazed openings protected from windborne debris shall meet the
requirements of the Large Missile Test of ASTM E1996 and ASTM E1886 referenced therein. The applicable wind
zones for establishing missile types in ASTM E1996 are shown on Figure R301.2(4)C. Garage door glazed opening
protection for windborne debris shall meet the requirements of an approved impact-resistant standard...
EXCEPTION: Wood structural panels with a minimum thickness of 7/16 inch and a maximum span of 8 feet shall be
permitted for opening protection in one- and two-story buildings. Panels shall be precut and attached to the framing
surrounding the opening containing the product with the glazed opening. Panels shall be predrilled as required for
the anchorage method and shall be secured with the attachment hardware provided. Attachments shall be designed
to resist the components and cladding loads determined in accordance with either Table R301.2(2) or ASCE 7, with
the permanent corrosion-resistant attachment hardware provided and anchors permanently installed on the building.
Attachment in accordance with Table R301.2.1.2 is permitted for buildings with a mean roof height of 33 feet or less
where located in Wind Zones 1 and 2 in accordance with Figure R301.2(4)C.
TABLE R301.2.1.2
WINDBORNE DEBRIS PROTECTION FASTENING SCHEDULE FOR WOOD STRUCTURAL PANELS
(a)(b)(c)(d)
Fastener Type
Fastener Spacing (inches)
(a)(b)
Panel Span 4 ft 4 ft < Panel Span 6 ft 6 ft < Panel Span 8 ft
No. 8 wood screw based anchor
with 2-inch embedment length
16 10 8
No. 10 wood screw based anchor
with 2-inch embedment length
16 12 9
1/4-inch lag screw based anchor
with 2-inch embedment length
16 16 16
For SI: 1 inch = 25.4 mm, 1 foot = 304.8 mm, 1 pound = 4.448 N, 1 mile per hour = 0.447 m/s.
(a) This table is based on 130 mph (V
ASD
) wind speeds and a 33-foot mean roof height.
(b) Fasteners shall be installed at opposing ends of the wood structural panel. Fasteners shall be located a minimum of 1 inch from
the edge of the panel.
(c) Anchors shall penetrate through the exterior wall covering with an embedment length of 2 inches minimum into the building
frame. Fasteners shall be located a minimum of 2-1/2 inches from the edge of concrete block or concrete.
(d) Where panels are attached to masonry or masonry/stucco, they shall be attached using vibration-resistant anchors having a minimum
ultimate withdrawal capacity of 1500 pounds.
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FIGURE 2
WIND BORNE DEBRIS REGIONS OF THE UNITED STATES
Notes:
1. Wind Zone 3 applies in Wind Zone 2 areas that are within a mile of the Coastal Mean High Water Line.
2. Wind Zone 1 applies in Hawaii Special Wind Regions.
3. See Section 1609.1.2.2 of 2012 International Building Code for definitions of wind zones.
Source: Figure R301.2(4)C, 2012 International Residential Code

Section R202 defines Windborne Debris Regions as areas within hurricane-prone regions as designated in accordance
with Figure R301.2(4)C. This figure is reproduced in Figure 2 of this publication. This figure is based on the following
criteria: 1) within one mile of the coastal mean high water line where the basic wind speed is 110 mph or greater; or 2)
where the basic wind speed is equal to or greater than 120 mph; or 3) Hawaii. For Florida provisions, see Hurricane
Shutters: Design Considerations for Florida, Form T460.
Wind Zone 1 (1 mile from the
Coastal Mean High Water Line)
Wind Zone 2
Wind Zone 3
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Alternatively, Section 1609.1.2 of the 2012 International Building Code:
In windborne debris regions, glazing in buildings shall be impact-resistant or protected with an impact-resistant
covering meeting the requirements of an approved impact-resisting standard or ASTM E1996 and ASTM E1886
referenced therein as follows:
1. Glazed openings located within 30 feet of grade shall meet the requirements of the Large Missile Test of ASTM
E1996.
2. Glazed openings located more than 30 feet above grade shall meet the provisions of the Small Missile Test of
ASTM E1996.
EXCEPTIONS:
1. Wood structural panels with a minimum thickness of 7/16 inch and maximum panel span of 8 feet shall be permitted
for opening protection in one- and two-story buildings classified as Group R-3 or R-4 occupancy. Panels shall be
precut so that they shall be attached to the framing surrounding the opening containing the product with the glazed
opening. Panels shall be predrilled as required for the anchorage method and shall be secured with the attachment
hardware provided. Attachments shall be designed to resist the components and cladding loads determined in
accordance with the provisions of ASCE 7, with corrosion-resistant attachment hardware provided and anchors
permanently installed on the building. Attachment in accordance with Table 1609.1.2 with corrosion-resistant
attachment hardware provided and anchors permanently installed on the building is permitted for buildings with
a mean roof height of 45 feet or less where V
ASD
determined in accordance with Section 1609.3.1 does not exceed
140 mph. (Figure 3 is provided for determining the V
ASD
wind speed measured at 33 feet above ground for
Risk Category II Buildings (Group R-3 or R-4 occupancy). This figure is based on the wind contours for Risk
Category II Buildings from 2012 IBC Figure 1609A.
2. Glazing in Risk Category I buildings as defined in Section 1604.5, including greenhouses that are occupied for
growing plants on a production or research basis, without public access shall be permitted to be unprotected.
TABLE 1609.2.1.2
WINDBORNE DEBRIS PROTECTION FASTENING SCHEDULE FOR WOOD STRUCTURAL PANELS
(a)(b)(c)(d)
Fastener Type
Fastener Spacing (inches)
(a)(b)
Panel Span 4 ft 4 ft < Panel Span 6 ft 6 ft < Panel Span 8 ft
No. 8 wood screw based anchor
with 2-inch embedment length
16 10 8
No. 10 wood screw based anchor
with 2-inch embedment length
16 12 9
1/4-inch lag screw based anchor
with 2-inch embedment length
16 16 16
For SI: 1 inch = 25.4 mm, 1 foot = 304.8 mm, 1 pound = 4.448 N, 1 mile per hour = 0.447 m/s.
(a) This table is based on 140 mph, V
ULT
(110 mph, V
ASD
) wind speeds and a 45-foot mean roof height.
(b) Fasteners shall be installed at opposing ends of the wood structural panel. Fasteners shall be located a minimum of 1 inch from
the edge of the panel.
(c) Anchors shall penetrate through the exterior wall covering with an embedment length of 2 inches minimum into the building
frame. Fasteners shall be located a minimum of 2-1/2 inches from the edge of concrete block or concrete.
(d) Where panels are attached to masonry or masonry/stucco, they shall be attached using vibration-resistant anchors having a minimum
ultimate withdrawal capacity of 1,500 pounds.
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FIGURE 3
V
ASD
CONTOURS FOR DETERMINING SUITABILITY OF WOOD STRUCTURAL PANEL GLAZING PROTECTION
DEVICES FOR RISK CATEGORY II STRUCTURES
Notes:
1. Values are nominal design 3-second gust V
ASD
wind speeds in miles per hour at 33 ft above ground for Exposure C category.
2. Linear interpolation between contours is permitted.
3. Islands and coastal areas outside the last contour shall use the last wind speed contour of the coastal area.
4. Mountainous terrain, gorges, ocean promontories, and special wind regions shall be examined for unusual wind conditions.
5. Wind speeds correspond to approximately a 7% probability of exceedance in 50 years (Annual Exceedance Probability = 0.00143,
MRI = 700 years).
Source: Derived from 2012 IBC Figure 1609A and Equation 16-33.
3. Glazing in Risk Category II, III or IV buildings located over 60 feet above the ground and over 30 feet above
aggregate surface roofs located within 1,500 feet of the building shall be permitted to be unprotected.
Section 202 defines a Windborne Debris Region as:
Areas within hurricane-prone regions located:
1. Within 1 mile of the coastal mean high water line where the ultimate design wind speed, V
ULT
, is 130 mph
(100 mph V
ASD
) or greater; or
2. In areas where the ultimate design wind speed, V
ULT
, is 140 mph (110 mph V
ASD
) or greater; or Hawaii.
Based on Equation 16-33, V
ASD
=

0.6 x V
ULT
maps for Risk Category II and Category III and IV are found in the 2012
IBC in Figures 1609A and B, respectively, and not provided herein.
85
90
95
100
110
120
125
132
140
150
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Section 202 defines Hurricane-Prone Regions as:
1. The U.S. Atlantic Ocean and Gulf of Mexico coast where the ultimate design wind speed, V
ULT
, for Risk Category
buildings is greater than 115 mph (90 mph V
ASD
); and
2. Hawaii, Puerto Rico, Guam, Virgin Islands and American Somoa.
2. CONSIDERATIONS FOR STRONGER, STIFFER DESIGNS
The following design pages describe how to construct stronger, stiffer shutters for attachment to wood and masonry
walls. The masonry attachments were designed prior to the adoption of specific test standards for shutter designs by
U.S. codes. The shutters have been tested to resist the design wind loads and impacts, but the attachments to masonry
have not been impact or cyclic-load tested. The masonry attachment details are therefore supplied as guides in devel-
oping individual designs.
The easiest designs are those that simply cover the opening with a wood structural panel. In wood-frame construction,
panels can be nailed over the openings when a hurricane approaches. Buildings made with concrete blocks, however,
require advance preparation.
In some cases, stiffeners may be necessary to limit deflection of the shutter with respect to the glass. Stiffeners function
best if they are on the outside of the shutter and oriented with the narrow edge against the shutter.
Tables 1 and 2 and Figures 4 and 5 on the following pages apply to most of the designs, and are referenced accordingly.
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TABLE 2
WEIGHTS AND DEFLECTIONS OF SHUTTERS WITH STIFFENERS
(a)
(SEE FIGURE 3)
APA Panel Span Rating
Minimum Panel
Specification
Approximate Weight
Maximum Span
(Stiffener Bending)
Total Deflection
(Stiffener Plus Panel)
With 2x4
Stiffeners
(psf)
With 2x6
Stiffeners
(psf)
With 2x4
Stiffeners
(b)

at 16" o.c.
(in.)
With 2x6
Stiffeners
(b)

at 16" o.c.
(in.)
66" Span
with 2x4
Stiffeners
(in.)
96" Span
with 2x6
Stiffeners
(in.)
32/16, 15/32 Perf. Cat.
5-ply plywood or OSB
2.4 2.9 66 96 0.87 0.97
40/20, 19/32 Perf. Cat.
4-ply plywood or OSB
2.8 3.3 66 96 0.75 0.86
48/24, 23/32 Perf. Cat.
Plywood or OSB
3.2 3.7 66 96 0.66 0.79
48 o.c., 1-1/8 Perf. Cat.
Plywood or OSB
4.3 4.8 66 96 0.49 0.67
(a) Panels with 2x4 S-P-F (South) No. 2 stiffeners spaced 16 inches o.c., Exposure C, 3-second gust, Wall Zone 5, mean roof height = 45 ft,
V
ASD
150 mph, 2012 IBC.
(b) Maximum span governed by stiffener bending strength, wet stresses, duration of load factor = 1.6.
TABLE 1
MAXIMUM SPAN WITHOUT STIFFENERS STRENGTH AXIS PERPENDICULAR TO FASTENER ROWS (SEE FIGURE 2)
APA Panel
Span Rating
Approximate
Weight
(psf)
Maximum
Shutter Span
(in.)
Approximate Deflection at V
ASD

150 mph Design Wind Speed at
45-ft Height, Exp. C, Wet Panels
(in.)
32/16 1.5 22 0.22
40/20 2.1 30 0.38
48/24 2.4 34 0.35
48 oc 3.6 50 0.58
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Rows of fasteners
Panel shutter Shutter span
Panel strength axis
(perpendicular to
the fastener rows)
Orientation is based on Figure A1
FIGURE 4
SHUTTER INSTALLATION EXAMPLE SHOWING ORIENTATION OF PANEL STRENGTH AXIS
APA structural panel
No. 2 2x4 or No. 2 2x6
Cut if desired
Panel strength axis
3/16" x 3" lag screws with fender washers
Min. 16d box nails (0.135" x 3-1/2") @ 6" o.c.
FIGURE 5
SHUTTER STIFFENER ATTACHMENT IF REQUIRED
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HURRICANE SHUTTER DESIGNS INDEX
A
B
C
D
E
A
B
C
D
E
A
B
C
D
E
A
B
C
D
E
A
B
C
D
E
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DESIGN A
Shutters for Wood-Frame Buildings
This design from APA describes how to construct structural panel shutters for attachment to wood-frame buildings.
Steps to Constructing Shutters
1. Review Tables 1 and 2 to determine if stiffeners are needed. Attach stiffeners, if needed, as shown in Figures 5 and
A1.
2. Cut APA wood structural panels with adequate edge overlap to receive nails. Orient long panel axis (strength axis) of
the panel as shown in Figures 5 and A1.
3. Use a long brad, finishing or casing nails to locate the framing behind the wood siding. The nails used to attach the
shims and the shutters must hit the framing to be fully effective.
4. Nail shims to the framing with 12d nails (0.135- x 3-1/4-inch). Use 16d nails (0.135- x 3-1/2-inch) for shims over
3/4 inch thick. For spans up to 5 feet, space the nails 6 (4) inches o.c. at each shim. For spans over 5 feet, space nails
4 (3) inches o.c. at each shim. Stagger nails as shown in Figure A2. Refer to Figures A2 and A3. Shim attachment
schedules are based on a mean roof height of 33 feet. Corresponding schedules for a mean roof height of 45 feet are
shown in parenthesis, e.g., 12 (8).
5. Attach the shutters with double-headed nails as shown in Figures A2 and A3 for ease of later removal. Use 16d
(0.135- x 3-1/2-inch). For nail spacing at each end of the shutter panel, see Tables A1 and A2. Stagger nails spaced
3 inches on center. Nailing the panel on all four sides instead of just the two ends will further limit deflection and max-
imize strength.
TABLE A1
MINIMUM NAIL SPACING ALONG EACH END
OF THE SHUTTER PANEL (Span Ratings 32/16,
40/20, 48/24 plywood or OSB)
Shutter
Height (ft)
Mean Roof Height (ft)
33 45
5 6" o.c. 4" o.c.
8 3" o.c. 3" o.c.
TABLE A2
MINIMUM NAIL SPACING ALONG EACH END
OF THE SHUTTER PANEL (Span Rating 48 oc,
1-1/8" plywood or OSB)
Shutter
Height (ft)
Mean Roof Height (ft)
33 45
5 4" o.c. 4" o.c.
8 3" o.c. 3" o.c.
6. Any permanently installed hardware, shims or fastening devices must be installed using standard/acceptable methods
of waterproofing. All abandoned holes must be sealed.
7. After fabrication, each shutter should be marked for orientation and location to speed installation.
8. If shims are left in place, use galvanized nails and finish like siding or exterior trim.
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16d (0.135" x 3-1/2") double-headed
nails in accordance with Tables A1 and A2
APA structural panel
No. 2 2x4s or
No. 2 2x6s (if needed)
Cut if desired
Panel strength axis
Span
FIGURE A1
SHUTTER ATTACHMENT VIEW FROM OUTSIDE
16d (0.135" x 3-1/2")
double-headed nails per
Table A1 or A2
Siding
Shim
Shutter
Finish wall
Flashing and caulk
Glass
Header
16d (0.135" x 3-1/2") nails
holding shims per Step 4
Interior casing
Maintain a minimum panel
edge distance of 1/2" 1"
FIGURE A2
SHUTTER ATTACHMENT TOP
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Caulk (prior to
installing shim)
16d (0.135" x 3-1/2") nails
holding shims per Step 4
Shim
Siding
Finish sill
Finish wall
Shutter
Sill
Interior casing
Glass
Maintain a minimum panel
edge distance of 1/2" 1"
16d (0.135" x 3-1/2")
double-headed nails
per Table A1 or A2
FIGURE A3
SHUTTER ATTACHMENT BOTTOM
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DESIGN B
Shutters for Masonry Block Structures
BARREL-BOLT LATCH SUPPORTS
This design from APA describes how to construct structural panel shutters for attachment to masonry block buildings
using barrel-bolt latch supports. The unique features of this design are the barrel bolt latches that support the shutter
at either end. Once made, the shutters can be mounted or removed without any additional hardware or tools. The
barrel-bolt latches should be mounted to the panel with bolts rather than the screws that usually come with them. Use
a washer under the nuts and heads of the bolts. Place the nut-end of the bolts to the outside (latch side) of the shutter
to allow for final adjustment of the latches.
Steps to Constructing Shutters
1. Use Tables 1 and 2 to determine if stiffeners are needed. Attach stiffeners, if needed, as shown in Figure 5.
2. Cut the panel 1/8 inch less than the window opening. The long-panel axis (strength axis) must be oriented perpendicular
to the supported ends (sides of the shutter with the barrel bolts), regardless of which shutter dimension is longer.
3. Make two templates that will help in mounting the latches and
drilling the barrel-bolt latch holes in the concrete blocks one
for each side of the window. The maximum distance between
the top of the shutter panel and the first barrel bolt, and the
maximum distance between barrel bolts shall be in accordance
with Table B1 and should miss the mortar joints between the
blocks by 1-1/2 inches or more. See Figure B1.
4. Mount 4-inch barrel bolts. The nuts go on the latch side (outside)
of the shutter. Make the nuts only finger tight because the latches
will be adjusted in the final fitting.
5. Drill latch-bolt holes in blocks. See Figure B2.
6. Mount the shutter in the window frame, and insert the barrel-
bolt latches into the holes in the concrete blocks. Tighten bolts holding barrel bolts in place.
7. The barrel-bolt holes in the concrete blocks may be filled with a removable plug when not in use as shown in Figure B3.
8. Any permanently installed hardware, shims or fastening devices must be installed using standard/acceptable methods of
waterproofing. All abandoned holes must be sealed.
9. After fabrication, each shutter should be marked for orientation and location to speed installation.
10. To prevent the bottom 2x4 anchor holes in the concrete block from becoming clogged with dirt between shutter
uses, insert 1/2-inch No. 14 pan- or flat-head screws into the anchor holes. Remove these screws prior to reattaching
the 2x4s.
TABLE B1
BARREL BOLT ATTACHMENT SCHEDULE
Shutter
Width
(ft)
Mean Roof Height (ft)
33 45
Distance to First Barrel Bolt (in.)
5 6 5
8 4 3
Barrel Bolt Spacing (in.)
5 12 10
8 8 6
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FIGURE B1
LATCH BOLT PLACEMENT DETAILS
1-1/2"
Panel strength axis
TOP
NORTH SIDE
CENTER
4" barrel bolt
No. 8 machine screws
3/8" cut washers
APA structural panel
Hole for latch bolt
Masonry joints
Outside face of wall
Note: Be sure to mark the
location and orientation
of each shutter after fabrication
4'' Barrel bolt
Section view of barrel bolt
Wall end view
Front view
Distance to first
barrel bolt per Table B1
1-1/2"
Barrel bolt spacing per Table B1
FIGURE B2
LATCH-BOLT HOLE in SiDE
OF WINDOW OPENING
Block
Stucco
Holes for latch
bolts not greater
than 16" o.c.
1-1/2"
minimum
1"
FIGURE B3
TEMPORARY PLUG
FOR LATCH-BOLT HOLE
Stucco
Block
Hole for
latch bolt
Cork
Screw handle
Plug for
latch-bolt hole
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DESIGN C
Shutters for Masonry Block Structures
STEEL OR ALUMINUM ANGLE AND SCREW SUPPORTS
This design from APA describes how to construct structural panel shutters for attachment to masonry block buildings,
using steel or aluminum angle and screw supports. The design is less costly to build than shutters with permanent
hardware for attachment and removal.
Anchorage to Masonry Block
The plastic anchors* referenced in this plan have sufficient lateral and withdrawal capacity to handle the expected
forces and are recommended because they are rated as being vibration resistant a characteristic that may be of some
value under buffeting wind loads. (Standard lead anchors are not usually rated as vibration resistant.)
Keep masonry anchors at least 1-1/2 inches from the block edges, joints and corners to minimize the danger of cracking the
concrete blocks.
Steps to Constructing Shutters
1. Use Tables 1 and 2 to determine if stiffeners are needed. Attach stiffeners, if needed, as shown in Figure 5.
2. In the dimension from support to support, cut the panel 3/8 inch less than the measurement of the window opening
(side to side in Figure C1). In the dimension from unsupported edge to unsupported edge, cut the panel 1/8 inch
less than the measurement of the opening. The long-panel axis (strength axis) must be oriented perpendicular to the
supported sides (side to side in Figure C1), regardless of which shutter dimension is longer.
3. Cut 1-1/2 x 1-1/2 x 1/8-inch steel or aluminum angles to the same length as the width of the shutter ends to be
supported.
4. Drill 1/4-inch diameter holes per Table C1 in one side of the angle. These holes are for bolts that hold the angle to
the panel and may be centered between the corner and the edge of the angle.
5. Drill 3/16-inch diameter holes per Table C2 in the remaining leg of the angle, offset 1 inch from the panel bolt holes.
Make the centerline of the holes 1/4 inch from edge of the angle. These holes are to receive No. 10 screws that will
go through the holes into masonry anchors in the concrete blocks. Refer to Figure C2.
TABLE C2
HOLE LOCATIONS IN ANGLE FOR ATTACHMENT
TO WALL
Shutter
Width
(ft)
Mean Roof Height (ft)
33 45
Concrete Anchor Spacing (in.)
5 8 8
8 6 4
Distance to First Concrete Anchor (in.)
5 4 4
8 3 2
TABLE C1
HOLE LOCATIONS IN ANGLE FOR ATTACHMENT
OF SHUTTER PANEL
Shutter
Width
(ft)
Mean Roof Height (ft)
33 45
Machine Bolt Spacing (in.)
5 12 12
8 12 12
Distance to First Machine Bolt (in.)
5 6 6
8 6 6
*Lateral ultimate value 350 lbs or greater in 4,000 psi concrete, with screws specified (1-1/2 inches with stucco).
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6. Drill holes in blocks for the plastic anchors. Refer to Figure C3.
7. Mount the shutter, with angles mounted, to the window frame using No. 10 x 1-1/2" screws with washers.
See Figure C1.
8. Any permanently installed hardware, shims or fastening devices must be installed using standard/acceptable methods
of waterproofing. All abandoned holes must be sealed.
9. After fabrication, each shutter should be marked for orientation and location to speed installation.
10. To prevent the bottom 2x4 anchor holes in the concrete block from becoming clogged with dirt between shutter
uses, insert 1/2-inch No. 14 pan- or flat-head screws into the anchor holes. Remove these screws prior to reattaching
the 2x4s.
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FIGURE C1
SHUTTER ATTACHMENT DETAIL
Panel strength axis
TOP
NORTH SIDE
CENTER
Block wall
Note: Be sure to mark the
location and orientation of
each shutter after fabrication
1-1/2"
minimum
APA structural panel
1/4" Dia. hole
3/32" Dia. hole
1-1/2" x 1-1/2" x 1/8"
Aluminum or steel angle
No. 10 wood or sheet metal screw
1/4" x 1" screw-in anchor
(1-1/2" screw-in anchor for stucco)
per Table C2
3/16" Dia. hole
Outside view of wall
Block wall
Block wall
top view
No. 8 machine screw with
1/4" x 1-1/4" fender washers per Table C1
Front or outside
FIGURE C2
AngLE-TO-SHuTTER ATTACHMEnT DETAiL
FIGURE C3
SCREW-in AnCHOR HOLE in SiDE OF WinDOW
OPENING
1/4" Dia. hole
per Table C1
3/32" Dia. hole
3/16" Dia.
hole per
Table C2
APA structural panel 1-1/2" x 1-1/2" x 1/8"
Aluminum or steel angle Stucco
Block
Hole for 1'' screw-in
anchor (1-1/2" screw-in
anchor for stucco)
per Table C2
1-1/2"
minimum
1"
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DESIGN D
Shutters for Masonry Block Structures
SHUTTERS ATTACHED TO OUTSIDE WALL WITH PERMANENTLY MOUNTED BRACKETS
This design from APA describes how to construct structural panel shutters for attachment to masonry block buildings, using
permanently mounted brackets on the outside wall. Two layers of APA Exterior plywood are attached to the outside of the concrete
block wall with No. 10 flat-head screws in masonry anchors. Once the brackets are installed, no tools are required to install or
remove the shutters unless stiffeners are required. It has the advantage of moving the shutter almost 2 inches farther away from
the glass than shutters mounted to the interior of the window frame and is therefore less likely to require stiffeners.
Fasteners
Screws or bolts that will be permanently exposed to the weather should be made of stainless steel.
Anchorage to Masonry Block
The plastic anchors* referenced in this plan have sufficient lateral and withdrawal capacity to handle the expected
forces and are recommended because they are rated as being vibration resistant a characteristic that may be of some
value under buffeting wind loads. (Standard lead anchors are not usually rated as vibration resistant.)
Keep masonry anchors at least 1-1/2 inches from the block edges, joints and corners to minimize the danger of cracking the
concrete blocks.
Steps to Constructing Shutters
1. Use Tables 1 and 2 to determine if stiffeners are needed. Attach stiffeners, if needed, as shown in Figure 5.
2. Cut APA Exterior plywood for the shutter support/spacer and
for the trim that holds shutter against the supports (see Figure
D1). Make the thickness of the inner spacer slightly greater
than that of the shutter to allow the shutters to slide without
binding. (The inner trim spacer of plywood is left out of one
side of the window framing to allow for the insertion of the
shutters.) Orient the plywood face grain of the trim as indi-
cated in the diagram. (Plywood with four or more plies may
be oriented either direction.) Lap the corners to allow the
outer trim to be attached to the inner spacer at the corners.
Refer to Figure D1.
3. Drill 1/2-inch diameter vertical drain holes in bottom inner
spacer to allow rain water to escape out the bottom.
4. Cut the shutter to be 1/4 inch less than the distance from the bottom of the bottom slot to the top of the top slot, and
about 2 inches wider than the window opening width (assuming that the panels are supported top and bottom).
Orient the long-panel axis (strength axis) as shown in Figure D1. Slide the shutter into place.
5. Drill hole halfway down the trim and diagonally downward (at about 30 degrees from the surface) in the trim board
covering the shutter-entrance opening. The hole should be about 1/8 inch outside the edge of the installed shutter.
This hole will receive a 12d box (0.128 x 3-1/4-inch) nail to prevent the shutter panel or panels from getting blown
back out the entrance slot.
*Withdrawal ultimate value 490 lbs or greater in 4,000 psi concrete, with screws specified (1-1/2 inches with stucco).
TABLE D1
TRiM-TO-COnCRETE AnCHOR SPACing
Shutter
Height
(ft)
Mean Roof Height (ft)
33 45
Concrete Anchor Spacing (in.)
5 12 12
8 9 6
Distance to First Concrete Anchor (in.)
5 6 6
8 4 3
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Hurricane Shutter Designs
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19
6. Any permanently installed hardware, shims or fastening devices must be installed using standard/acceptable methods of
waterproofing. All abandoned holes must be sealed.
7. After fabrication, each shutter should be marked for orientation and location to speed installation.
8. To prevent the bottom 2x4 anchor holes in the concrete block from becoming clogged with dirt between shutter uses,
insert 1/2-inch No. 14 pan- or flat-head screws into the anchor holes. Remove these screws prior to reattaching the 2x4s.
Design Alternative
As an alternative to Design D, the wood trim can be replaced with 1 x 1 x 1-inch (outside measurements) x 1/8-inch
aluminum channels (channel outside dimensions may be changed to better accommodate panels thicker than 5/8 inch i.e.,
1-1/8-inch-thick shutters will require a channel slot opening of about 1-1/4 inches) mounted approximately the same way as
the wood trim. See Figure D2. Make holes at both ends to hold a latching device to prevent shutters from being blown out.
APA structural panel shutter
1/2" Plywood face trim
No. 10 screw
1/4" x 1" Screw-in anchor
(1/4" x 1-1/2" for stucco) in
accordance with Table D1
Panel strength axis
Inner spacer
1-1/2" Minimum
Note: Using sawn lumber instead of plywood for the outer layer of trim may result in the failure of the trim when suction loads are applied
to the shutter.
Detail of
locking
device
Face trim
Not required for
reinforced shutters
Hole for
shutter stop
Side view
Lap trim at corners
Shutter location
marked on shutter
Shutter slot (3 sides)
Strength axis
Drain hole
Block
3" 4"
Thickness of shutter plus 1/8"
TOP
NORTH SIDE
CENTER
FIGURE D1
SHUTTER FRAME AND ATTACHMENT STRUCTURAL PANEL OPTION
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Hurricane Shutter Designs
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FIGURE D2
SHUTTER FRAME AND ATTACHMENT ALUMINUM CHANNEL OPTION
1/4" x 1" screw-in anchor
(1/4" x 1-1/2" for stucco) in
accordance with Table D1
Stucco
Block
1-1/2"
Minimum
1/2"
Aluminum channel
1" x 1" x 1" x 1/8"
No. 10 screw
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Hurricane Shutter Designs
Form No. T450G

2013 APA The Engineered Wood Association

www.apawood.org
21
DESIGN E
Shutters for Masonry Block Structures
FOR OPENINGS WIDER THAN 8 FEET
This design from APA describes how to construct structural panel shutters for attachment to masonry block build-
ings, where glass windows and doors are wider than 8 feet. The shutters run from top to bottom and are attached to a
temporary 2x4 lumber strip at the top and bottom of the opening.
Anchorage to Masonry Block
The plastic anchors* referenced in this plan have sufficient lateral and withdrawal capacity to handle the expected
forces and are recommended because they are rated as being vibration resistant a characteristic that may be of some
value under buffeting wind loads. (Standard lead anchors are not usually rated as vibration resistant.)
Keep masonry anchors at least 1-1/2 inches from the block edges, joints and corners to minimize the danger of cracking
the concrete blocks.
Steps to Constructing Shutters
1. Use Table 2 to determine which panel to use.
2. Cut two 2x4s to a length that is 1 inch less than the width of the door opening to be covered. Rip the 2x4s length-
wise, if necessary, to the width of the distance of the door frame to the front of the wall. The outside edge of the 2x4
should be flush with the outside surface of the wall. (Note: If holes or hole plugs on the front of the building are not
a concern, the top 2x4 may be eliminated by extending the shutter above the opening and attaching the top of the
shutter directly to the front of the header.) Refer to Figure E1.
3. Predrill 1/4-inch diameter holes in the 2x4s in accordance with Table E1 and at least 1-1/2 inches from the front
edge of the 2x4s (outside surface of the wall).
4. Drill holes in the concrete blocks.
5. Tap vibration-resistant anchors into the holes in the concrete.
6. Attach the 2x4s to top and bottom of the opening using 2-1/2-inch No. 14 round or pan-head wood or sheetmetal
screws with washers. Refer to Figure E1.
7. Cut the shutter to span the opening (plus the width of the supports, 3 inches for two 2x4s). Orient the long-panel
axis (strength axis) as shown in Figure 5.
8. Drill holes at 16 inches o.c. along the supported panel edges and in the 2x4s.
9. Attach the shutter to the 2x4s with 2-inch No. 10 wood or sheetmetal screws in accordance with Table E2.
10. To prevent the bottom 2x4 anchor holes in the concrete block from becoming clogged with dirt between shutter
uses, insert 1/2-inch No. 14 pan- or flat-head screws into the anchor holes. Remove these screws prior to reattaching
the 2x4s.
11. Any permanently installed hardware, shims or fastening devices must be installed using standard/acceptable
methods of waterproofing. All abandoned holes must be sealed.
12. After fabrication, each shutter should be marked for orientation and location to speed installation.
* Withdrawal ultimate value 490 lbs or greater in 4,000 psi concrete, with screws specified (1-1/2 inches with stucco).
[RETURN TO INDEX]
Hurricane Shutter Designs
Form No. T450G

2013 APA The Engineered Wood Association

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22
FIGURE E1
SHUTTER ATTACHMENT TO HEADER AND SLAB FLOOR
No. 10 x 2" screw with washer
in accordance with with Table E2
Concrete floor
APA structural panel
Header reinforcing
No. 14 x 2-1/2" screw with washer
in accordance with Table E1
3/16" x 3" lag screw with fender washer
16d nails 6" o.c.
Anchor
No. 14 x 2-1/2" screw with washer
in accordance with Table E1
2x4
2x4
Header
Shutter location and orientation
TOP
WEST SLIDER
LEFT SIDE
No. 2 2x4 16" o.c.
or No. 2 2x6 16" o.c.
Alternate means of attachment
No. 14 x 2-1/2" screw with washer and
anchor through 2x4 in accordance
with Table E3
Patio slab
No. 10 x 2" screw with washer
in accordance with Table E2
Alternate means of attatchment
No. 14 x 2-1/2" screw with washer and
anchor in accordance with Table E3
Anchor
Anchor
2x4 (if required)
Outside of shutter
Min.
1-1/2"
Min.
1-1/2"
Outside surface of wall
TABLE E2
SHUTTER TO TEMPORARY 2x4
Shutter
Width
(ft)
Mean Roof Height (ft)
33 45
no. 10 Screw Spacing
(in.)
5 8 8
8 4 4
Distance to First no. 10
Screw (in.)
5 4 4
8 2 2
TABLE E1
TEMPORARY 2x4 TO COnCRETE
Shutter
Width
(ft)
Mean Roof Height (ft)
33 45
no. 14 Screw Spacing
(in.)
5 12 12
8 8 6
Distance to First no. 14
Screw Anchor (in.)
5 6 6
8 4 3
TABLE E3
TOP OF SHUTTER TO HEADER
(Alternate Means)
Shutter
Width
(ft)
Mean Roof Height (ft)
33 45
Concrete Anchor
Spacing (in.)
5 6 6
8 4 4
Distance to First
Concrete Anchor (in.)
5 3 3
8 2 2
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Hurricane Shutter Design
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DISCLAIMER
The information contained herein is based on APA The Engineered Wood Associations
continuing programs of laboratory testing, product research, and comprehensive field experi-
ence. Neither APA, nor its members make any warranty, expressed or implied, or assume any
legal liability or responsibility for the use, application of, and/or reference to opinions, findings,
conclusions, or recommendations included in this publication. Consult your local jurisdiction or
design professional to assure compliance with code, construction, and performance require-
ments. Because APA has no control over quality of workmanship or the conditions under which
engineered wood products are used, it cannot accept responsibility of product performance or
designs as actually constructed.
Form No. T450G/Revised September 2013