PVC shutters are a popular choice in home renovations because they are energy efficient and keep your windows warm during winter. But how do you keep them looking good for spring? Take proper care to prevent rust and corrosion for a durable shutter that keeps your home secure. Here are some PVC shetters winter maintenance tips.
Weatherproofing
When a flexible vinyl section has been exposed to the weather or humidity, it will warp over time and become unusable. Before storing your shutters for winter, ensure that all the drawer tracks are appropriately sealed along the bottom of the flaps and doors. Use thin strips of painter’s tape on both sides of the track seams. If you have painted shutters (or any wood or metal), ensure they are completely dry before sealing.
Stabilizing
Ensure that the hinges and screws are tight, especially if you store your PVC shutters in an area with high winds or extreme temperatures. If you are concerned about high winds or storms, consider installing a small tree branch or similar extender at the bottom of your exterior shutters.
Props
This is a good time to prop up your shutters if you have not already done so for the fall. This way, rainwater will drain away from the bottom of your window and not seep near the middle. If you haven’t already, also be sure to remove any leaves or other debris from below the shutter bottom before placing it back in position.
Check for loose contact points
You can check to ensure that the PVC shutters are lined up correctly with each window by simply holding them in place and gently pulling them out. Comparing your door with other doors in the house should help you determine which shutter is positioned just right. If the shutters are not correctly positioned, you may have trouble closing or opening the window or door, resulting in a tight seal or drafts.
Cleaning the Shutters
Once completely dry, clean both sides of each shutter using a damp cloth and a gentle detergent. If you have painted shutters (or any wood or metal), make sure they are completely dry before using a solvent such as acetone. If not done correctly, it can cause unwanted discolorations and ripples.
Sanding & Sealing
If your shutters have been in place for a long time, they may become rust-stained or scratched over time. This happens especially to shutters in buildings close to the ocean, rivers, or lakes. The best way to fix this problem is to remove the existing paint and sand it down to bare wood. If a lot of rust has built up, you may want to treat the wood with one part citric acid mixed into 30 parts water. Let this soak in overnight before continuing with the rest of the steps below.
If you are considering installing PVC shutters for your home, you need to treat them well and ensure that they are stored properly in the winter. Consider these PVC shetters winter maintenance tips to protect them from moisture and rust. Install Aeratis PVC shutters and enjoy years of flawless performance.
