How To Close Outdoor Shutters

How to Close Outdoor Shutters: A Comprehensive Guide

Outdoor shutters, often lauded for their aesthetic appeal, serve a more practical purpose than mere decoration. They provide protection from the elements, enhance privacy, and even contribute to energy efficiency. Properly closing outdoor shutters is essential to maximizing these benefits and ensuring the longevity of the shutters themselves. This article provides a comprehensive guide on how to effectively close outdoor shutters, covering different types of shutters, common closing mechanisms, and addressing potential problems encountered during the process.

Understanding Different Types of Outdoor Shutters

Before delving into the closing process, it is crucial to recognize the variety of outdoor shutter types. The design and mechanics of a shutter directly influence the closing procedure. Understanding the nuances of each type allows for a more efficient and problem-free experience.

Panel Shutters: These are the most traditional type, consisting of solid or paneled wood, composite, or vinyl sections. They typically swing on hinges, either mounted directly to the window frame or to a separate shutter dog or pintle system. Closing panel shutters involves swinging them inward until they meet in the middle, effectively covering the window.

Louvered Shutters: Louvered shutters feature horizontal slats that can be fixed or adjustable. These shutters offer varying degrees of light control and ventilation. Closing louvered shutters, whether fixed or adjustable, follows a similar swinging motion as panel shutters. However, adjustable louvered shutters may require aligning the slats before closing to ensure a flush and secure fit.

Board and Batten Shutters: Characterized by vertical boards held together by horizontal battens, these shutters offer a rustic and straightforward design. Their closing mechanism is similar to panel shutters, relying on hinges for swinging motion. Due to their typically heavier construction, proper alignment and secure fastening are particularly important when closing board and batten shutters.

Bahama Shutters: Hinged at the top, Bahama shutters are propped open at an angle to provide shade. To close Bahama shutters, the supporting arms or rods are detached, allowing the shutter to swing down and cover the window. These shutters are particularly effective against harsh sunlight and tropical storms.

Accordion Shutters: Designed for storm protection, accordion shutters fold to the side when open and expand to cover the window when closed. Closing accordion shutters involves pulling the sections along a track until they fully cover the window opening, then securing them in place with locking mechanisms.

Roll-Down Shutters: Similar to accordion shutters, roll-down shutters are built for storm protection. They are stored in a housing above the window and roll down to cover the opening when needed. Closing roll-down shutters typically involves using a crank, motor, or automated system to lower the shutter and secure it in place.

Common Closing Mechanisms and Procedures

The closing procedure depends largely on the shutter type and the hardware used. The following details the common mechanisms involved and the steps required to effectively close each type.

Hinges and Shutter Dogs: For panel, louvered, and board and batten shutters, hinges are the primary means of attachment and movement. Shutter dogs, also known as shutter tie-backs, are used to secure the shutters in the open position. To close these shutters, begin by disengaging the shutter dogs. This typically involves rotating the dog to release the shutter. Then, gently swing the shutter inward, ensuring it is properly aligned with the window frame. Once both shutters are closed, they may be secured with a latch, bolt, or simply held in place by the friction of the hinges.

Latches, Bolts, and Locking Mechanisms: Many shutters are equipped with latches or bolts to provide a more secure closure. These mechanisms can be surface-mounted or recessed, depending on the shutter design. To engage a latch, align the latch arm with the receiver and snap it into place. Bolts typically slide into a receiving hole or bracket. Ensure the latches or bolts are properly engaged to prevent the shutters from opening unexpectedly, especially during inclement weather.

Operating Cranks and Motors: Roll-down shutters often utilize cranks or electric motors for operation. For crank-operated shutters, insert the crank into the designated socket and rotate it in the direction indicated for closing. Ensure the shutter descends evenly and smoothly. For motorized shutters, use the remote control or wall-mounted switch to initiate the closing process. Regularly inspect the motor and track for any signs of wear or damage to ensure reliable operation.

Adjusting Louvers (If Applicable): Adjustable louvered shutters offer the ability to control light and ventilation even when closed. Before fully closing the shutters, consider adjusting the louvers to the desired angle. If privacy is a concern, angle the louvers upward. If maximum light blockage is desired, close the louvers completely. Be mindful of the mechanism for adjusting the louvers, which may involve a tilt rod or individual adjustment of each slat.

Securing Bahama Shutters: Closing Bahama shutters begins with detaching the support arms or rods that hold the shutter open. Carefully lower the shutter, ensuring it doesn’t swing wildly. Once the shutter is flush against the window, secure it using latches, bolts, or hooks. Consider using additional fasteners, such as storm clips, for enhanced stability during severe weather.

Troubleshooting Common Problems and Maintenance

Even with a thorough understanding of shutter types and closing mechanisms, occasional problems may arise. Addressing these issues promptly and effectively is crucial for maintaining the functionality and appearance of outdoor shutters.

Sticking or Binding Hinges: Hinges may become stiff or bind due to rust, dirt, or lack of lubrication. Apply a quality penetrating oil or silicone lubricant to the hinge pins to loosen them. Work the shutter back and forth to distribute the lubricant evenly. If the hinges are severely corroded, consider replacing them with new ones.

Misaligned Shutters: Misalignment can occur due to settling of the house, warped shutters, or damaged hinges. Inspect the hinges for damage and replace them if necessary. If the shutters are warped, consider planing or sanding them to achieve a better fit. In some cases, adjusting the position of the hinges may be required to compensate for minor misalignment.

Damaged Latches or Bolts: A broken latch or bolt compromises the security of the shutters. Replace damaged latches or bolts with new ones of the same type and size. Ensure the replacement hardware is made of a durable, weather-resistant material.

Difficulty Operating Roll-Down Shutters: Problems with roll-down shutters can range from minor issues like a jammed track to more serious issues like a malfunctioning motor. Inspect the track for obstructions and remove any debris. Lubricate the track with a silicone-based lubricant. If the motor is not functioning properly, consult a qualified technician for repair or replacement.

Preventative Maintenance: Regular maintenance is essential for prolonging the life of outdoor shutters. Periodically inspect the shutters for signs of damage, rust, or wear. Clean the shutters regularly with a mild soap and water solution to remove dirt and grime. Apply a protective coating of paint or sealant to prevent weathering and corrosion. Lubricate hinges and other moving parts to ensure smooth operation. Addressing minor issues promptly prevents them from escalating into more serious problems.

By understanding the nuances of different shutter types, mastering common closing mechanisms, and proactively addressing potential problems, homeowners can effectively close outdoor shutters, maximizing their benefits and ensuring their longevity. Consistent maintenance and prompt repairs will contribute to the continued functionality and aesthetic appeal of this valuable architectural feature.