Bahama & Colonial shutters not only add beauty and architectural charm to your home—they also serve as vital protection during hurricane season. These shutters are designed to withstand strong winds and flying debris while offering style and functionality year-round.
Regular hurricane shutter maintenance keeps them looking their best and ensures they perform properly when storms approach. With a few simple steps, you can extend their life and avoid costly repairs or replacements down the road.
Here are some essential maintenance tips to help you keep your Bahama & Colonial shutters in top shape all year long.
1. Wash Shutters, Tracks, and Arms with Soapy Water
Over time, salt, dust, and debris can accumulate on your shutters and hardware—especially in coastal or high-humidity areas. This buildup not only dulls the finish but can also lead to corrosion or reduced performance if left untreated.
To maintain your shutters:
Mix mild dish soap with warm water.
Use a soft cloth or sponge to gently wash the shutter panels, arms, and tracks.
Rinse thoroughly with clean water to remove all soap residue.
For most homeowners, cleaning your shutters twice per year is sufficient. However, if you live near the ocean, aim for quarterly cleaning to prevent salt buildup that can damage metal hardware and finishes.
Pro Tip: Avoid harsh chemicals, bleach, or abrasive pads—they can damage paint, powder coating, or the protective finish.
2. Lubricate Hinges, Bolts, and Fasteners
Smooth operation is essential for shutters that must close securely in high winds. Over time, hinges, bolts, and locking fasteners can stiffen or corrode, making it difficult to deploy shutters quickly before a storm.
Use a dry silicone spray lubricant on all moving parts, including:
Hinges and pivot arms
Bolts and threaded fasteners
Support arms and locking pins
Dry silicone sprays are ideal because they protect against moisture without attracting dirt or leaving a sticky residue. Avoid oil-based lubricants, which can trap dust and grime.
Maintenance Frequency: Lubricate your hardware at least twice per year—once before hurricane season and once after—to ensure easy operation when you need it most.
3. Inspect Regularly for Wear or Damage
A quick visual inspection twice a year can help prevent small issues from turning into major problems. Look for:
Loose fasteners or hinges
Peeling paint or coating damage
Signs of rust or corrosion
Cracks in mounting areas or arms
If you notice flaking paint or surface rust, lightly sand the area, apply a rust inhibitor, and repaint or touch up with a UV- and corrosion-resistant finish. This not only keeps your shutters looking great but also protects against long-term deterioration.
Pro Tip: If your Bahama or Colonial shutters are motorized, check the motor housing and wiring for wear, and test operation before hurricane season starts.
4. Keep the Surrounding Area Clean
Debris buildup can interfere with shutter movement and prevent them from closing properly. Periodically clear leaves, sand, and dirt from around the shutter arms, hinges, and wall mounts.
Check that the mounting surfaces are free of cracks, gaps, or mildew, as these can trap moisture and weaken attachment points.
Keeping the surrounding area clean helps your shutters operate smoothly and ensures a tight seal when closed.
5. Check Alignment and Tension
Bahama & Colonial shutters rely on properly aligned hinges and correctly tensioned arms for stability. Over time, strong winds or frequent use can cause the alignment to shift slightly.
To check alignment:
Open and close your shutters fully.
Ensure they move evenly and lock securely.
If one side feels loose or uneven, adjust or tighten the hinge bolts.
If adjustments are needed or you notice sagging arms, it’s best to contact a professional for a quick tune-up. Proper alignment helps prevent unnecessary stress on the mounting points and ensures your shutters perform correctly when storms hit.
Final Thoughts
Routine Bahama & Colonial hurricane shutter maintenance keeps your home protected while preserving the shutters’ visual appeal. These systems are an investment in your home’s safety—and a few minutes of care each season can add years to their lifespan.
By cleaning, lubricating, and inspecting your shutters regularly, you’ll ensure they remain ready for hurricane season while enhancing your home’s curb appeal.
If you’d like professional help maintaining, repairing, or upgrading your hurricane shutters, contact APS Hurricane Protection for expert support, top-quality materials, and dependable storm readiness you can trust.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q1: How often should I clean Bahama & Colonial shutters?
At least twice a year, or more often if you live near the coast where salt exposure is high.
Q2: Can I use a pressure washer to clean my shutters?
It’s best to avoid high-pressure cleaning, as it may damage the finish or force water into joints. Use a gentle spray and soft brush instead.
Q3: What kind of lubricant works best?
A dry silicone spray is recommended for all moving parts. It provides smooth operation without attracting dirt or dust
Do you have any questions? Head over to our Contact us page and let us know!
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