Hurricane shutters are a crucial part of storm preparation if you live in an area prone to hurricanes. Properly lubricating your hurricane shutters ensures they function smoothly when you need them most. This straightforward guide will walk you through the process of lubricating hurricane shutters so they’re ready before storm season hits.
Table of Contents
Quick Hurricane Shutter Lubrication Summary
When | At least annually before hurricane season |
What | Lightweight oil or silicone spray |
Where | All hinges, pivots, tracks, hardware |
How | Wipe on, move joints, test operation |
Why Lubricate Hurricane Shutters?
Lubricating hurricane shutters serves several important purposes:
- Ensures smooth operation – Lubrication reduces friction so shutters can open and close effortlessly. This makes it much easier to put them up when a storm is approaching.
- Prevents rust and corrosion – Lubricants protect metal components from water damage and rust. This extends the life of your hurricane shutters.
- Quiets squeaky shutters – A light application of lubricant will silence squeaky hinges and any grinding or squealing sounds.
- Saves time – Well-lubricated shutters take just minutes to deploy compared to sticking shutters which can be a major hassle.
Properly lubricating your hurricane shutters is inexpensive preventative maintenance that pays off when you need to use them. Just a few minutes per shutter makes a huge difference.
When to Lubricate Hurricane Shutters
Hurricane shutters should be lubricated at least once a year prior to hurricane season. The best times to lubricate them are:
- Spring – April/May before humidity rises.
- Early summer – 1-2 months before hurricane season peaks in August/September.
Lubricating in the spring or early summer gives the lubricant time to fully penetrate all moving parts. Waiting until a hurricane is already on its way is too late!
Some homeowners lubricate their shutters twice a year – spring and summer. This provides maximum protection against rust and wear.
Check shutters for squeaks or grinding noises when opening and closing. If they sound scratchy and rough, it’s definitely time to lubricate.
What You’ll Need
Lubricating hurricane shutters is a simple process that doesn’t require special tools or expensive lubricants. Here’s what you need:
- Light oil – A lightweight, penetrating oil like WD-40 works perfectly.
- Spray bottle – Use an empty cleaner bottle. This allows controlled application.
- Rags – For wiping down excess lubricant.
- Small brush – Helpful for coating hinges. A paintbrush works.
- Ladder – For accessing second story shutters. Get help holding the ladder if needed.
- Silicone spray – Use instead of oil for plastic shutters. Prevents cracking.
Optional items:
- White lithium grease – For roll down shutter tracks.
- Graphite powder – For stuck sliding bolts.
That’s it! You don’t need anything fancy to keep hurricane shutters moving smoothly.
Lubricating Different Types of Hurricane Shutters
The lubrication process is basically the same regardless of shutter type. The main difference is the specific areas to focus on.
Here are tips for properly lubricating common hurricane shutter types:
Accordion Shutters
Accordion shutters fold into an accordion shape when opened. Lubricate:
- Hinges
- Meeting rails where folds connect
- Guide rails that hold the shutter in place
Open shutters fully to access meeting rails. Apply a light coating of lubricant to all moving joints and connections. Wipe away any drips or excess.
Bahama Shutters
Bahama shutters sit above windows and pivot downward to close. Lubricate:
- Hinge pivots
- Telescoping extension arms
- Adjustment rods
Hold shutters open to lubricate full length of arms. Coat hinge pivots thoroughly on both shutter and window frame.
Colonials Shutters
Colonial shutters are pairs of solid shutters that close over windows. Lubricate:
- Hinges
- Movable joints
- Meeting rail between shutters
Lubricate hinge barrels after detaching shutters if possible. Don’t forget to coat joining edges.
Roll Down Shutters
Roll down shutters unfurl from a hood at the top of windows/doors. Lubricate:
- Guide tracks – Use white lithium grease, not oil.
- Barrel that stores shutter – Requires occasional lubrication, typically done by professionals.
Coat entire track to prevent sticking as shutter rolls down. Avoid getting lubricant on shutter itself.
Panels/Plywood
Cut-to-fit panels often used as affordable covers. Lubricate:
- Attachment hardware – bolts, screws, etc.
- Hinges if permanent panels
- Sliding bolts – Use graphite powder so they slide easily.
Focus lubrication on any moving parts or hardware. Avoid getting oil on plywood surfaces.
Lubrication Tips
Follow these tips when lubricating hurricane shutters:
- Use light, penetrating lubricants like WD-40 so lubricant reaches all crevices.
- Spray on a rag then apply to parts rather than spraying directly. This gives more control and less mess.
- Open shutters fully before lubricating to expose all hidden surfaces.
- Wipe away excess lubricant so parts aren’t dripping.
- Move joints through full range of motion to distribute lubricant evenly.
- Be thorough and coat every moving joint, hinge and hardware piece.
- Reattach panels loosely so lubricant contacts all surfaces as bolt tightens.
- An extending brush is handy for reaching hinges and rails awkward spots.
- Avoid over-lubricating plastic parts. Just a light coat is sufficient.
- Reapply mid-hurricane season if shutters get frequent use.
Proper lubricant application is key, so take your time coating each moving component. A little effort goes a long way!
Testing the Shutters
The true test of sufficient lubrication is to operate the shutters. After lubricating:
- Fully open and close each shutter – Does movement feel smooth?
- Listen for squeaks or grinding – If sounds persist, re-lubricate.
- Ensure locking bolts slide easily – Check a few times to coat bolts fully.
- Confirm shutters sit flush when closed – Bindings can indicate something needs addressed.
- Time closing speed – Well-lubricated shutters close much faster!
- Note any areas of rust – Treat rust and reapply protectant.
- Be sure locking levers easily engage and disengage.
Take your time testing every shutter. Catching issues now prevents problems later.
Proper lubrication makes shutting storm protection a breeze. Waiting until a hurricane warning to check condition can be risky. By following this guide and lubricating annually, your shutters will provide hassle-free protection for years to come.
Frequently Asked Questions
How often should I lubricate hurricane shutters?
Lubricate hurricane shutters at least once per year before storm season begins. Many homeowners lubricate twice annually – early spring and summer.
What lubricant is best for hurricane shutters?
A lightweight, penetrating lubricant like WD-40 works very well. Silicone sprays are good for plastic shutters. Avoid thick greases that can collect dust.
Where can I buy lubricant for hurricane shutter parts?
Hardware stores, home centers and online retailers like Amazon carry suitable lubricants from brands including WD-40, Blaster, DuPont and 3-IN-ONE.
What areas of shutters should be lubricated?
Lubricate hinges, pivot points, sliding bolts, guide rails, tracks and any joints or hardware that move or allow movement when opening and closing the shutters.
How do I lubricate shutters I can’t reach?
Use an extending pole or brush to apply lubricant to high second story shutters. Get a helper to safely hold a ladder if needed. Removing shutters to lubricate on the ground is ideal if feasible.
Should I lubricate the hurricane shutter surface itself?
No, just lubricate the moving parts and hardware. Avoid getting lubricant on the shutter surface as this can attract dirt and dust. Wipe away any excess.