Living in Bonita Springs means enjoying beautiful weather, stunning sunsets, and warm breezes—but it also means being prepared for hurricane season. One of the best ways homeowners protect their properties is by installing aluminum shutters in Bonita Springs FL. These shutters are known for their strength, durability, and long lifespan. However, like any home investment, they require regular maintenance to stay in top shape.
In this blog post, we’ll walk you through the essential steps to maintain your aluminum shutters all year long, so you’re ready whenever storm season hits.
Why Aluminum Shutters Are Popular in Bonita Springs
Before diving into maintenance tips, let’s talk about why so many homeowners choose aluminum shutters in Bonita Springs FL:
Durability: Aluminum resists corrosion, making it ideal for coastal environments.
Lightweight: Easier to operate than heavier materials.
Aesthetic Appeal: Sleek and modern appearance enhances curb appeal.
Hurricane Protection: Meets Florida’s stringent building codes for storm safety.
Because aluminum shutters are constantly exposed to the sun, salty air, and seasonal storms, maintaining them is crucial for their longevity and performance.
1. Perform Regular Visual Inspections
Start by setting a regular schedule—ideally every 3 to 6 months—to inspect your aluminum shutters. Look for:
Rust spots or corrosion: While aluminum resists rust, hardware such as bolts and hinges may not.
Paint chipping or fading: This is common in sun-exposed areas.
Debris buildup: Dirt, leaves, and salt can gather around shutter tracks and moving parts.
Operational issues: Ensure your shutters open, close, and lock properly.
Make a note of any problems, so you can address them before hurricane season.
2. Clean Your Aluminum Shutters Thoroughly
Bonita Springs’ coastal air can leave a salt residue on surfaces, which can corrode metal parts over time. Cleaning your shutters at least twice a year helps protect them. Here’s how:
What You’ll Need:
Mild soap or detergent
Soft sponge or cloth
Garden hose
Soft brush for scrubbing
Steps:
Rinse the shutters with clean water using a hose.
Mix mild soap with water and apply with a sponge.
Gently scrub away dirt, pollen, and salt buildup.
Rinse thoroughly to remove any soap residue.
Let the shutters air dry completely.
Avoid using harsh chemicals or abrasive tools, as they can damage the finish.
3. Lubricate Moving Parts
Aluminum shutters often have moving parts such as tracks, hinges, and locking mechanisms. These should be lubricated at least once or twice a year to ensure smooth operation.
Recommended Lubricants:
Silicone-based spray (safe for metal and doesn’t attract dirt)
WD-40 (for metal parts, but avoid using it on plastic)
Tips:
Wipe away dirt and old lubricant before applying new.
Use a cloth to avoid overspray onto walls or windows.
Operate the shutters a few times after lubrication to distribute it evenly.
4. Tighten and Replace Hardware
Wind, rain, and regular use can loosen the screws, bolts, and fasteners that hold your aluminum shutters in place. During inspections, check all hardware for:
Tightness
Rust or wear
Alignment issues
Replace any rusted or stripped screws with stainless steel alternatives. If you notice any parts that don’t seem secure, call a professional to assess and repair them before they become a hazard.
5. Repaint or Touch Up When Needed
While aluminum is resistant to rust, the paint or powder coating on your shutters can degrade over time, especially under the Florida sun. If your shutters look faded or have chipped spots, a fresh coat of paint will not only improve appearance but also protect the metal underneath.
DIY Touch-Up Steps:
Lightly sand the affected area.
Clean the surface to remove dust or grease.
Use a primer if necessary (especially on bare metal).
Apply paint that matches the original finish.
If your shutters are badly worn or peeling, consider hiring a professional painter who has experience working with aluminum surfaces.
6. Store Removable Shutters Properly
If you have removable aluminum shutters, like panels or Bahama-style units, make sure you store them correctly during the off-season.
Storage Tips:
Clean before storing.
Stack neatly in a dry, covered area.
Use padding between panels to prevent scratching.
Keep all mounting hardware organized and easily accessible.
Proper storage will extend the life of your shutters and make installation much easier next season.
7. Schedule a Professional Inspection Before Hurricane Season
While DIY maintenance is important, having your shutters professionally inspected once a year is a smart move—especially in Bonita Springs, where storm prep is serious business.
Professionals can:
Identify structural issues you might miss.
Replace worn components.
Test the shutter’s compliance with local hurricane codes.
Schedule your inspection in the spring or early summer to avoid the rush before peak hurricane season.
Final Thoughts
Maintaining your aluminum shutters in Bonita Springs FL isn’t difficult, but it does require consistency. With a little care, you can ensure your shutters remain functional, attractive, and storm-ready for years to come. Regular inspections, proper cleaning, lubrication, and touch-ups can go a long way in protecting your investment—and more importantly, your home.
If you’re unsure about any part of the maintenance process or notice any major issues, don’t hesitate to contact a local shutter specialist in Bonita Springs for expert advice or service.
