Your hurricane shutters protect your home, but for them to do the job properly, they need to be intact. Any piece that is missing or compromised could be disastrous. So here are some steps to follow to help keep your hurricane shutters in good repair. And, if you find damage that is too severe, it might be time to consider replacements or upgrades.
Step 1. Inspection
Every time you deploy your hurricane shutters in Palmetto, FL you should perform a preliminary inspection. Check the tracks, hardware, locks, and panels. Make sure everything is secure and that there is no rust or corrosion. If you do notice some rust, it might be repairable with cleaning and refinishing. But if the metal is rusted through, or the hardware is compromised, you will need to replace it as soon as possible. You may even want to perform a more thorough inspection by removing the shutters. Inspect them one at a time to check the condition of the entire unit. If there is any structural damage, you want to get a replacement shutters as soon as you can. But if the damage is merely cosmetic, you may be able to repair the smaller dents and scratches.
Step 2. Repaint
Depending on the age, use, and storage of your shutters, the paint could be in disrepair. If you notice bubbling or peeling, you should completely remove all the paint and refinish your hurricane shutters. This will help them last longer and look better in the meantime. To sand and repaint, you need to take the shutter off the building, remove the hardware, and use sandpaper and wire brushes to remove the existing paint. Once you have completely stripped the shutter, you can prime and paint the surface. Ideally, you want to use two coats of paint for the most protection. Be sure to give it enough time to dry before you reinstall it. There are some companies that will professionally strip and refinish your shutters. This might prove more beneficial, especially for shutters with a lot of tight spaces.
Step 3. Replace Hardware
When it comes to hurricane shutters, the overall integrity of each part of the unit is crucial. This is even true of hardware. If you notice corrosion or missing pieces, you want to get them replaced. Just be sure you find the exact hardware otherwise the louvers, frames, or locks might not perform as they should. In some cases, you can re-drill your shutters for different hardware. Otherwise, you will need to get new hurricane shutters in Palmetto, FL.
If you have any doubts about your shutters, call a professional to come out and check them over. They will perform an inspection and make sure your shutters pass the requisite certifications for Palmetto, FL and the surrounding area. If they do not pass, then by code, you will need to get replacements so you have adequate protection for your home. It is in your best interest to make sure your shutters are up to the proper standards. For help, call Armored Dade Windows and Shutters. You can stop by 8112 Cortez Rd. West, Bradenton, FL. 34210 or you can call 941-798-9010.
