Hurricane Aftermath: Your Essential Post-Storm Checklist (and Why Hurricane Shutters Matter)

Hurricane Aftermath: Your Essential Post-Storm Checklist (and Why Hurricane Shutters Matter)

by Eduardo Roman on Aug 06, 2024

Now that Hurricane Debby’s blown through, it’s time to roll up our sleeves and assess the situation. If you’ve got AHT hurricane shutters, you’re already a step ahead, but even the toughest shutters need a little TLC after a storm.

Here’s Advanced Hurricane Technology’s post-hurricane shutter checklist to ensure your home stays protected:

1. Inspect for Damage

Carefully examine your shutters for any signs of wear and tear, dents, or damage to the tracks or housing. Even minor issues can compromise their effectiveness, so it’s important to address them promptly.

If you also have hurricane screens, check their housing and side tracks the same way, and look over the fabric for tears or debris caught in it. Our guide to hurricane screen maintenance covers screen care in more detail.

2. Test the Operation

Manually operate each shutter to ensure they open and close smoothly. Listen for any unusual noises or resistance. If you have motorized shutters, test the controls and make sure they’re functioning properly. If a shutter grinds, sticks or won’t close, stop there and call us rather than forcing it.

Two upstairs windows with white roll-down shutters, one partly lowered and one rolled up
Two roll-down shutters, one lowered part way and one rolled up into its housing.

3. Clean and Lubricate

Remove any debris that may have accumulated on the shutters or in the tracks, including the top and bottom tracks of accordion shutters. Use a mild detergent and water to clean the surfaces. If your shutters have moving parts, apply a light lubricant to ensure smooth operation.

Wide dark bronze roll-down shutter closed across a patio opening beside a screen door
A dark bronze roll-down shutter closed across a wide patio opening, with its housing and side track in view.

4. Secure Loose Hardware

Check all screws, bolts, and fasteners to make sure they’re tight. If any are loose, tighten them securely. If you find any missing or damaged hardware, contact AHT for replacements.

5. Address Minor Repairs

If you notice any minor damage, such as small dents or scratches, you can often repair them yourself with touch-up paint or a repair kit. For more significant damage, it’s best to contact a professional.

6. Schedule a Professional Inspection

For added peace of mind, consider scheduling a professional inspection with AHT. Our technicians will thoroughly assess your hurricane shutters and identify any potential issues that may require attention.

It can matter for your warranty, too. The AHT Limited Warranty calls for maintenance by an authorized dealer every 6 months for homes within 1 mile of water, and once a year otherwise.

Checklist: inspect for damage, test each shutter, clean and lubricate, tighten hardware, fix minor damage, book an inspection
The six post-storm checks from this article in one list.

Your Home’s Safety is Our Priority

At AHT, we’re committed to providing you with quality hurricane shutters and attentive customer service. We understand the importance of keeping your home safe and secure during hurricane season, and we’re here to help you every step of the way.

Have Questions? Contact AHT Today!

If you have any questions or concerns about your hurricane shutters, or if you’re interested in learning more about our products and services, contact us. We’re here to help you weather any storm.

Products in this article

Roll-down shutter with its housing and side tracks
Roll-Down ShuttersAluminum shutters that roll up into a housing above the opening. Free in-home quote.

White accordion shutters closed across a lanai opening
Accordion ShuttersPermanent shutters that stack beside the opening and close by hand. Free in-home quote.

Hurricane screen and its housing and side tracks
Hurricane ScreensCustom roll-down storm screens made in Fort Myers. Free in-home quote.

Request a service visit or call (239) 251-0856, and we’ll inspect your shutters and screens. Our office is open Monday to Friday, 7:30 am to 4:00 pm. If you’re ready for new protection, book your free in-home consultation.

Advanced Hurricane Technology · FL Lic. CBC1258522 | SCC131153977

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