Accordion shutters can upgrade your home’s storm protection and security. They are sturdy, easy to operate, and can withstand exposure to harsh weather conditions. At times, they also develop issues and require maintenance. If you notice any issues, you should do early troubleshooting to prevent the issues from turning into costly repairs. Let’s explore some of the most common accordion shutter issues, how to recognize them and what you can do to fix them.
Why Early Troubleshooting is Essential
Many times, we ignore small issues, thinking that they will not affect the shutters much, but these issues will turn into major problems quickly. By keeping an eye on how your shutters perform and addressing any irregularities early on, you can increase their lifespan and ensure they function smoothly during hurricanes.
Stiff or Stuck Shutters
Many times, homeowners complain that their accordion shutters feel stiff or get stuck when opening or closing. This typically happens due to dirt, sand, and debris accumulation in the shutter tracks. As this build-up increases, it creates more friction and prevents the shutters from operating normally. To fix this issue, you should clean the shutters and their tracks periodically with a soft brush or damp cloth, or use mild soap and water to gently rinse them. Once they are dry, apply a shutter lubricant to keep them gliding smoothly. It’s best to avoid oily lubricants as they attract more dust and can worsen the issue over time.
Dry Hinges and Wheels
When shutters creak or feel harder to move than usual, it is often because of hinges and wheels that have dried out due to sun exposure and humidity. The lack of lubrication can put more strain on their mechanism and eventually cause damage. By using a silicone or lithium-based lubricant on the moving parts, you can get your shutters to operate smoothly. Doing this twice a year can help improve the performance and also prevent premature corrosion, especially if you live in a coastal area.
Misaligned Panels
At times, accordion shutters start to look uneven or do not fold neatly when you close them. This happens when panels or slats become misaligned due to regular usage of the shutters. If you notice that your shutters don’t stack properly or rub against each other, then it may be time to tighten and adjust the hinges and fasteners. If the panel is bent or damaged anywhere, you must contact a professional for help so they can inspect it on-site and determine whether the shutter needs any repairs.
Loose Fasteners and Mounting Issues
Accordion shutters often face strong winds, vibrations, and changes in weather conditions. This can cause screws and bolts to loosen over time and even make the entire shutter system feel unstable and shaky. By checking the mounting points and tightening any loose fasteners, you can keep your shutters operating smoothly. If there are any rusted or damaged screws, you must get them replaced promptly.
Locking Mechanism Problems
Sometimes, the locking mechanisms of the shutters don’t work properly. This is caused by dirt or rust inside the mechanism. Cleaning it gently and applying a suitable lubricant may help fix the problem. If the lock is misaligned, a little adjustment can help resolve the issue. However, if the lock is completely jammed or broken, replacing it may be the best solution.
Rust and Corrosion
Constant exposure to rain, salt air, and humidity can corrode the metal parts of accordion shutters, causing them to rust. This rust can then weaken the structure of the shutters and restrict movement. To prevent such issues, inspect the shutters regularly to see if there are any signs of corrosion. Remove light rust with a soft wire brush or sandpaper and apply a protective rust-resistant coating over it. This can help increase the lifespan of your shutters and keep them looking their best.
Get in touch with Shutters239 today for service and repair of storm shutters in Marco Island. Our expert team will help identify and fix the issue so your shutters continue to perform well and keep your home well-protected.
