Storm shutters are an important investment for Florida homeowners who live in areas prone to hurricanes. These shutters provide an extra layer of protection for your property and loved ones. They help in preventing the damage to windows and doors during extreme weather conditions.
However, storm shutters also require proper maintenance to ensure their effectiveness and longevity.
In this blog, we’ll go through a step-by-step guide on how to clean and store hurricane shutters.
Step 1: Gather Your Cleaning Supplies
Before you start cleaning your storm shutters, you need to gather a few things. You will need a soft-bristled brush and a bucket of warm soapy water. A hose or pressure washer, a cleaner, a sponge, and a towel are some of the other things that will help you in cleaning.
Step 2: Remove Dirt and Debris
Start by removing any dirt, debris, or cobwebs that have accumulated on the storm shutters. Use the soft-bristled brush to gently scrub the surface of the shutters. Be careful not to scratch or damage the material. If there are any stubborn spots, you can use a non-abrasive cleaner and a sponge to remove them.
Step 3: Rinse the Shutters
After you’ve removed all the dirt and debris, rinse the shutters thoroughly with a pressure washer. Make sure you get all the soap off the shutters to prevent any residue from building up.
Step 4: Dry the Shutters
Once you’ve finished rinsing the shutters, use a towel or rag to dry them off completely. If you leave them wet, they could rust or become damaged over time.
Step 5: Lubricate the Hinges
If your storm shutters have hinges, it’s a good idea to lubricate them to keep them working smoothly. Use a non-abrasive lubricant and apply it to the hinges using a small brush.
Step 6: Inspect the Shutters
After cleaning the shutters thoroughly, take a few minutes to inspect them for any signs of wear and tear. Check for any cracks or rust that could compromise their effectiveness.
Step 7: Store the Shutters
If you live in an area where storm shutters are only needed during certain times of the year, you’ll need to store them properly. Start by cleaning and drying the shutters, as described above. Then, store them in a dry and climate-controlled area to prevent damage.
If you have removable shutters, you can stack them neatly in a corner or hang them on a rack. If your shutters are permanently attached to your home, you can fold or roll them up when not in use.
Step 8: Label Your Shutters
If you have multiple sets of storm shutters, it’s advised to label them so you know which set goes where. This will save you time and effort when it comes to putting them up each season.
By following these simple steps, you can ensure that your storm shutters are well-maintained and ready to use when you need them most.
Regular cleaning and inspection can help extend the life of your shutters, while proper storage can protect them from damage.
Shutters239 offers preventive maintenance and storm shutter cleaning in Fort Myers and Naples, FL. We are here to help keep your home safe and secure during hurricane season.
Our skilled technicians will remove dirt, debris, and cobwebs that have accumulated on your shutters. They will also inspect them for any signs of wear and tear. So, don’t let dirty or damaged storm shutters compromise the safety of your home. Call us today to schedule your preventive maintenance and storm shutter cleaning in Fort Myers, FL. Trust us to keep your home protected all year long!
