Keep Your Shutters Storm-Ready: The JSS Guide to Shutter Maintenance
- Jansen Shutters & Specialties
- 2 days ago
- 4 min read
Storm protection doesn’t stop at installation. To truly protect your home, and extend the life of your shutters, you need a regular maintenance routine. At Jansen Shutters & Specialties (JSS), we believe peace of mind comes from preparation. That means making sure your storm systems are clean, lubricated, and ready to deploy at a moment’s notice.
This Shutter Maintenance Guide for Florida homeowners will help you keep your investment looking great and working flawlessly all year long.
Shutter Maintenance Guide for Florida Homeowners
Why Regular Shutter Maintenance Matters
All JSS shutters are crafted from premium 6063-T6 extruded aluminum and engineered to meet strict Florida Building Code standards. But even the strongest materials need care. Florida’s salt air, wind, and sun break down even the most durable aluminum products over time.
If your shutters aren’t cleaned and operated regularly, you may experience:
Rust or corrosion
Sticking or jammed operation
Debris buildup in side tracks
Malfunctioning motors
Voided warranties due to neglect
To avoid these issues, JSS recommends a monthly operation schedule and a quarterly cleaning plan. For coastal homes near Sarasota, Venice, and Siesta Key, maintenance is even more essential due to salt exposure.
Rolling Shutter Maintenance
Operation: Open and close shutters monthly to prevent jams and keep tracks clear.
Upkeep: Apply graphite or wax spray in the side tracks 2–4 times per year.
Cleaning: Use low pH soap (like car wash soap) every three months. Avoid vinegar, citrus, WD-40, or abrasive tools. Power washing is safe only through an authorized Croci dealer.
Rolling Screen Maintenance
Exercise monthly to keep motors and tracks functional.
Never roll wet screens into the housing, this can damage the motor.
Use fresh water only for cleaning after storms.
Avoid lubricants on tracks or housing.
Allow motors to cool for 3 minutes after every 1-minute run.
- If your remote becomes unresponsive, check for a blinking light when you press a button. No light typically means the batteries need replacement.
- If problems continue, contact JSS before attempting to reprogram the motor or perform any additional maintenance. We’re here to help keep your system running safely and smoothly.
Accordion Shutter Maintenance
Open and close at least monthly.
Spray graphite or wax in upper tracks 2–4 times per year, especially around the wheels.
Clean tracks with mild soap and a soft brush every three months.
Make sure the upper and lower tracks stay free of debris. We recommend washing them every three months using a mild soap solution and a soft cloth or fine‑haired brush to remove built‑up dirt, salt, or sand.
📝 Note:
If your accordion shutters use a key, be sure to store it in a safe, accessible place. Misplacing the key can prevent you from securing your home before a major weather event, or from reopening the shutters once they’re locked.
Bahama Shutter Maintenance
For Articulating Impact Bahamas, open and close monthly to keep blades moving smoothly.
Twice a year, remove screws from the arm and collar, then apply lubricant
Clean with a soft brush and mild soap every three months.
Avoid high-PH cleaners, solvents, and pressure washing unless handled by a certified pro
Colonial Shutter Maintenance
Always lock shutters in their open or closed position to prevent damage.
Clean with a soft cloth and low-PH soap quarterly.
As with all shutters, do not use abrasive tools, WD-40, or harsh chemicals.
Power Washing? Read This First
Do not power wash your shutters unless it’s done by a licensed JSS dealer. Power washing can force water into motors, tracks, and fasteners, causing long-term damage and potentially voiding your warranty.
If your shutters need deep cleaning, contact our team for a professional maintenance appointment.
Best Cleaning Products to Use
✅ Approved:
Auto soap or low-pH cleaner (neutral pH of 6.5–7.5)
Graphite or wax-based lubricants (dry spray only)
Soft cloth or sponge
Hose water (light pressure)
🚫 Avoid:
WD-40 or grease
Vinegar, orange, lemon, or baking soda solutions
Solvents, degreasers, or abrasive powders
Steel wool, wire brushes, hard sponges
Shutter Maintenance Made Easy with JSS
Your shutters are your home’s first line of defense against hurricanes, salt air, and even attempted intrusions. The good news? A little routine maintenance goes a long way.
Whatever type of shutters you have, following this shutter maintenance guide for Florida homeowners helps preserve your investment and ensures your shutters work exactly when you need them most.
Peace of mind starts with protection that performs.
Here's how you can join us in making a difference right here in our community:
Volunteer: Sign up for free training and join our volunteer force.
Request Assistance: If your home or business requires storm cleanup support, connect directly with our volunteer crews.
Become a Sponsor: Local businesses and organizations are invited to sponsor and support community resilience.
Download Your Complimentary Hurricane Preparedness & Safety Guide.
Together, we are stronger. Be proactive, Be prepared, and Be StormStrong.