Hurricane shutters play an important role in protecting your home during storm season but in the months when they are not needed, it’s vital to put them away and store them properly. Storing your hurricane shutters properly ensures they stay in top condition, ready to shield your home during the next storm season. Let’s understand how you can correctly store your shutters to keep them in good shape.
1. Clean Before Storing
Before you decide to store your hurricane shutters, it’s essential to clean them thoroughly. Storms often leave behind dirt, salt and debris that can cause damage to your shutters and even corrosion over time. By rinsing shutters with a mild detergent and some warm water you can effectively remove dirt and salt. It’s best to avoid using harsh chemicals as they can damage the material. After cleaning you must allow the shutters to air dry or use a clean cloth to make sure that they are completely dry, as storing damp shutters can lead to rust and mold growth, especially in Florida’s humid climate.
2. Inspect for Damage
Once you have cleaned your shutters you must take some time to inspect them carefully for any signs of wear or damage. You should check if there are any signs of dents, cracks, or warping. If you have metal shutters, then you should see if there are any rust spots or signs of corrosion on the shutters. Are any of its bolts and clips loose or damaged? If you notice any issues, you must address them promptly before storing the shutters away. Addressing minor damage quickly is necessary as it can lead to bigger problems in the future.
3. Choose the Right Storage Location
The place at which you store your hurricane shutters matters just as much as how you store them. The ideal storage space should be someplace that is dry and cool. You must avoid storing shutters in humid and damp areas such as basements and outdoor sheds that don’t have proper ventilation. They should not be exposed to direct sunlight as some shutter materials can fade and weaken over time. Plus, they should be accessible as you would want to retrieve them quickly in case of an unexpected storm, so avoid storing them in hard-to-reach places.
4. Stack and Label Carefully
Proper stacking is necessary as it helps prevent damage and makes it easier to locate specific panels when needed. If you have panel-style shutters, you should lay them flat on a soft surface to avoid scratches. You can place some padding or fabric between each layer for added protection. To save time and avoid hassle during reinstallation you can mark each shutter with its corresponding window and door.
5. Store Hardware Separately but Securely
You shouldn’t forget about the bolts, screws and other hardware that come along with your hurricane shutters. Losing these hardware components can make reinstallation difficult. So carefully put all hardware in a container or zip lock bag and store them in the same place as your shutters to ensure easy access.
6. Regularly Check Stored Shutters
Even when shutters are not in use, it’s a good idea to check on them periodically. You must look out for any signs of moisture, pests, or damage in your storage area. Catching such issues early can save you time and money later.
Contact Shutters 239 For All Your Hurricane Shutter Needs
Get in touch with Shutters 239, for all your hurricane shutter needs. From installation and service & repair to cleaning, we provide comprehensive shutter services to ensure your shutters stay in top shape all year round. If you have any questions about maintaining or storing your hurricane shutters in Fort Myers, feel free to reach out to us.
