How to Maintain Your Accordion Hurricane Shutters Year-Round
Accordion hurricane shutters are essential for protecting your home from severe weather conditions, particularly in coastal areas prone to hurricanes. However, like any other home feature, they require regular maintenance to ensure they function correctly and provide the necessary protection. This article will guide you through the best practices for maintaining your accordion hurricane shutters all year round.
Regular Cleaning is Key
Keeping your accordion hurricane shutters clean is vital for their longevity and effectiveness. Dust, dirt, and debris can accumulate on the surface and within the tracks over time. To clean them, simply use a soft cloth or sponge with mild soap and water. Avoid abrasive cleaners that could scratch or damage the surface. Make it a habit to clean your shutters at least twice a year—once in spring before storm season begins and once in fall after storms have passed.
Inspect for Damage
Regular inspections of your accordion hurricane shutters can help catch any potential issues before they become serious problems. Look for signs of wear such as rust spots, cracks in the material, or misalignment in the tracks. If you notice any damage during your inspection, address it immediately by either performing minor repairs yourself or contacting a professional.
Lubricate Moving Parts
To ensure that your accordion hurricane shutters open and close smoothly, it’s important to lubricate their moving parts regularly. Use a silicone-based lubricant on the tracks and hinges—this will help prevent rusting while allowing easy movement during deployment. Apply lubricant at least once every six months or more often if you live in an area with high humidity.
Check Mechanisms Before Storm Season
Before each storm season hits, do a thorough check of all mechanisms associated with your accordion hurricane shutters including locks and bolts. Ensure that everything is functioning properly so that you can deploy them quickly when needed without any hassle. Test each shutter by opening and closing them fully to confirm they operate seamlessly.
Store Properly Off-Season
When not in use during non-storm seasons, consider keeping your accordion hurricane shutters stored properly if applicable (some aren’t removable). If yours are removable types that allow storage away from windows or doors when not needed, ensure they are kept dry and free from moisture which could lead to mold growth or corrosion over time.
By following these simple maintenance tips for your accordion hurricane shutters throughout the year, you’ll enhance their durability while ensuring they’re ready when you need them most during storm season. Regular cleaning, inspections, lubrication of parts as well as proper storage contributes significantly towards preserving this critical investment in safeguarding your home.
This text was generated using a large language model, and select text has been reviewed and moderated for purposes such as readability.
