When a hurricane is approaching Florida, every minute counts. The last thing any homeowner wants to discover is that their hurricane shutters won’t close when they need them most.
Whether your shutters are stuck, jammed, off-track, or simply won’t lock properly, malfunctioning shutters can leave your windows vulnerable to wind damage, flying debris, and costly repairs.
If your hurricane shutters won’t close before a storm, here are the steps you should take immediately to protect your home and family.
Table of Contents
- Stay Calm and Assess the Problem
- Check for Obvious Obstructions
- Inspect for Rust or Track Damage
- Try Manual Operation
- Secure Vulnerable Windows Temporarily
- Call a Hurricane Shutter Professional
- Schedule Maintenance After the Storm
1. Stay Calm and Assess the Problem
If your hurricane shutters won’t close, don’t force them immediately.
Take a few minutes to determine what’s actually causing the issue:
- Are the shutters stuck halfway?
- Is the motor not responding?
- Are the tracks jammed?
- Are locking mechanisms broken?
- Is debris blocking movement?
Forcing shutters closed can cause even more damage and make repairs more expensive.
2. Check for Obvious Obstructions
One of the most common reasons hurricane shutters won’t close is simple obstruction.
Look for:
- Dirt buildup
- Leaves
- Sand
- Small branches
- Rust buildup
- Loose screws or hardware
Florida homeowners near the coast often deal with salt buildup that affects shutter performance over time.
Carefully remove debris and test the shutters again.
3. Inspect for Rust, Corrosion, or Track Damage
Rust is especially common in coastal communities like Daytona Beach, New Smyrna Beach, and Ormond Beach.
Signs of corrosion include:
- Difficulty sliding shutters
- Grinding noises
- Visible rust spots
- Bent tracks
- Broken rollers
According to the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), properly maintained storm protection systems help reduce storm-related property damage. Consider linking to FEMA hurricane preparedness resources as an external source.
4. Try Manual Operation on Motorized Shutters
If you have roll-down shutters and the motor fails:
- Check power connections
- Make sure breakers haven’t tripped
- Locate your manual override crank
- Review manufacturer instructions
Many homeowners forget that motorized shutters often have backup manual systems.
If your hurricane shutters won’t close electronically, manual operation may save valuable time.
5. Secure Vulnerable Windows Temporarily
If your shutters remain stuck and a storm is approaching:
- Move outdoor furniture indoors
- Remove loose yard debris
- Bring vehicles into the garage
- Close interior doors
- Move valuables away from windows
Important note: plywood should only be used as a temporary emergency measure if installed correctly.
For official emergency guidance, homeowners can review recommendations from the Federal Emergency Management Agency and National Hurricane Center.
6. Call a Hurricane Shutter Professional Immediately
If your hurricane shutters won’t close before a storm, professional help may be your fastest solution.
At APS Hurricane Protection, we help Florida homeowners with:
- Hurricane shutter repairs
- Emergency service
- Shutter inspections
- New shutter installations
- Storm preparation consultations
Waiting until hurricane warnings are issued can limit repair availability, so it’s always best to address shutter issues early.
7. Schedule Maintenance After the Storm
Even if you manage to temporarily secure your home, schedule maintenance after the storm passes.
Routine inspections can prevent future emergencies by identifying:
- Motor wear
- Corrosion
- Broken tracks
- Loose hardware
- Aging shutters
Annual maintenance helps ensure your shutters are ready when the next storm approaches.
How to Prevent Hurricane Shutter Problems in the Future
The best way to avoid discovering your hurricane shutters won’t close is regular maintenance before hurricane season begins.
Homeowners should:
- Test shutters monthly during hurricane season
- Lubricate moving parts with a dry silicone spray
- Remove debris from tracks
- Inspect for rust
- Schedule professional inspections annually
The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration predicts active hurricane seasons can bring multiple storm threats, making preparation critical.
Don’t Wait Until a Storm Is Days Away
Finding out your hurricane shutters won’t close before a storm can be stressful—but acting quickly can reduce damage and keep your home safer.
If your shutters need repair, maintenance, or replacement, APS Hurricane Protection can help ensure your home is ready before hurricane season peaks.
Need help with your shutters? Contact APS Hurricane Protection today for an inspection before the next storm arrives.
