Living along Florida’s Space and Treasure Coasts can often feel like paradise. The picturesque sunrises, soothing sounds of the ocean, and warm climate make for an idyllic place to call home and put down roots. However, Mother Nature has a way of reminding coastal residents each year that there can be a price to pay for such amazing living conditions in the form of hurricane season. Nature’s beauty can turn downright ugly when major storms from the Tropics roll through. That’s why it’s important to have hurricane shutters installed on to your home’s windows. It’s also extremely important that the shutters are well maintained so that they are ready to be deployed when the time comes.
There are many different types of hurricane shutters such as Bahama shutters, Accordion shutters, Colonial shutters, and even Hurricane panels. Each offers pros and cons, such as cost, ease of use, and aesthetic appeal. However, each hurricane shutter type also comes with different maintenance requirements to keep them functioning properly. When a major hurricane is barreling down on the coast, no homeowner wants to find that their shutters aren’t in proper working order because of a lack of proper maintenance.
At Brevard Shutters, we are experts in not only shutter installation, but also shutter maintenance. So, here are a few maintenance tips for various types of hurricane shutters to help keep you ready when and protected when the next named storm enters the tropics.
Bahama Shutter Maintenance
Bahama shutters provide a great tropical look, while also protecting your windows from flying debris during a storm. In general Bahama shutters don’t require much upkeep, but that doesn’t mean that they are maintenance-free shutters. Here are a few suggestions that will help keep your Bahama shutters in tip-top shape.
- Maintenance of Bahama shutters should be performed at least twice a year. You’ll want to inspect each shutter to make sure that it is still structurally sound and that no slats need to be repaired or replaced.
- Make sure that all moving parts are properly lubricated and remove any corrosion. A clear silicone spray is ideal for lubrication and will help to ensure that your Bahama shutters deploy easily when they are needed.
- Remove any debris or dirt that is present. Clean shutters are good shutters.
Accordion Shutter Maintenance
Accordion Shutters typically are one or two-piece structures that are installed on the sides of your windows and doors when they are not being used. Storm from major storms and peace of mind are two strengths of according shutters. However, accordion-style shutters can require a bit more maintenance and repair than other types of hurricane shutters.
- You’ll want to make sure to wash the tracks of your accordion shutters multiple times per year and especially before hurricane season begins. Jams can occur from dirt and debris that has not been properly washed out, and that is not something that you want to run into when you are trying to get your home ready for a major storm. Use warm water and soap, along with a soft cloth, to clean out the tracks of your shutters and keep them jam-free.
- The salty sea breezes might feel great while sitting out on the porch at night, but they can wreak havoc on the tracks of your accordion shutters. Make sure to apply a silicone-based lubricant to the tracks to further help prevent jams, as well as stiffening and even rust.
- Salty air can also be a problem for the thumbscrews and wheels of your shutters. Keeping the thumbscrews well lubricated will make it much easier to remove the locking pins when the time comes. You’ll also want to lubricate the wheels so that they roll smoothly within the tracks when opening and closing the shutters.
- The slats of the shutters should also be washed. Washing the tracks of accordion shutters may seem obvious, but the slats also need your attention and elbow grease. While the tracks may be the most crucial moving element of your shutters, the slats don’t fall too far behind in importance. The slats are the element that actually protects your windows, so you need to wash them to make sure that no mold or mildew has accumulated, and that the salty air isn’t able to cause corrosion.
Colonial Shutters
Colonial Shutters are extremely popular because they have an appealing look to those who appreciate design. If you’re looking for attractive shutters to protect your home, it’s very hard to beat Colonial shutters. However, with beauty comes upkeep. So, here are a few tips to keep your colonial shutters well maintained.
- As with the other shutters that have been mentioned, Colonial shutters need to be cleaned often. You should dust them regularly with a feather duster or a soft cloth. If a more thorough washing is needed, use a damp cloth.
- Make sure to lubricate all bolts, fasteners, and hinges with Lithium or silicone grease.
Hurricane Panels
Hurricane Panels are usually constructed out of steel or aluminum. They are a simple and straightforward way of protecting your home during a hurricane. Yet, even in simplicity, there is still a level of care that needs to be performed with Hurricane panels.
- If you have certain windows that are covered by Hurricane panels all year, then you need to make sure that the fasteners are well lubricated. At least twice a year each screw and bolt should be loosened and coated with white Lithium grease.
- Before storing your Hurricane shutters once the major storm season is over, make sure that inspect them for damage and remove any moisture that may be present.
If you have any further questions about Hurricane Shutters maintenance, or if you need new shutters don’t hesitate to give Brevard Shutter a call. We’re located in Melbourne, Florida, and have served Brevard, Indian River, and St. Lucie residents for many years. Stop by our showroom to see all of our Hurricane Shutter options. Or, give us a call for a free estimate.
