Moderate; requires proficient understanding of structural fastening, building envelope integrity, and potentially electrical wiring. Professional installation is recommended for optimal performance and code compliance.
Installation requires careful structural analysis for wind loads, adherence to egress requirements, and potential electrical work for motorized systems, ensuring compliance with IRC and NEC for DuPage County's climate.
Project Guidelines & Rules
Permitting & Plan Review
2 Rules
Obtain all necessary building permits from your local municipality prior to the commencement of any work.
2024 IRC R105.1
Submit detailed plans, including product specifications, anchorage details, and impact on emergency egress openings, for review and approval by the local building department.
2024 IRC R106.1
Structural Anchorage & Wind Loads
3 Rules
All storm shutters and their fastening systems shall be designed and installed to resist applicable wind design loads for DuPage County, as determined by the International Residential Code.
2024 IRC R301.2.1, ASCE 7 (referenced)
Fasteners and anchoring methods shall be compatible with the substrate material (e.g., wood framing, masonry, concrete) and rated for the intended loads, ensuring positive attachment to the main structural elements.
2024 IRC R502.2.1, R602.10, R602.11; Manufacturer's Installation Instructions (2024 IRC R104.1)
Installation shall not compromise the structural integrity, shear capacity, or the weather-resistive barrier of the existing building envelope.
2024 IRC R703.1, R703.2
Egress & Life Safety
2 Rules
Storm shutters shall not impede the required operation or accessibility of emergency escape and rescue openings (e.g., windows, doors) from the interior of the dwelling.
2024 IRC R310.1, R310.2
Any shutter covering an emergency opening must be readily operable from the inside without the use of keys, tools, or special knowledge, and capable of being opened from the inside with a single motion.
2024 IRC R310.4
Electrical Systems (for Motorized Shutters)
4 Rules
All electrical wiring, connections, and components for motorized shutters shall comply with the National Electrical Code.
2023 NEC 110.1, 90.2
Branch circuits supplying power to motorized shutters shall be appropriately sized, protected by overcurrent devices, and installed in accordance with NEC requirements.
2023 NEC 210.19, 240.4, Article 430
Outdoor electrical wiring and equipment shall be listed for wet or damp locations and installed with appropriate wiring methods to withstand DuPage County's environmental conditions.
2023 NEC 300.5, Article 406
Proper equipment grounding and bonding shall be installed for all electrical components to prevent shock hazards.
2023 NEC 250.4
Materials & Manufacturer Specifications
2 Rules
All materials, including shutters, fasteners, and sealants, shall be new, approved, and suitable for the intended exterior application and DuPage County's climate conditions (e.g., high winds, temperature extremes).
2024 IRC R301.1, R104.1
Installation shall strictly adhere to the manufacturer's published installation instructions and product listings, which must be made available to the local building department upon request.
2024 IRC R104.1
Inspections
1 Rules
Schedule and obtain all required inspections, typically including a final inspection, from your local building department upon completion of the installation.
2024 IRC R109.1
