Used for both window and door installations, hurricane shutters provide protection against flying objects and debris during major storms. Businesses located in hurricane-prone and wind-borne debris regions, such as Hawaii and the coastal United States, are required by the American Society of Civil Engineers Standard 7 (ASCE 7) and the International Building Code (IBC) to install hurricane shutters. Help protect your business from hurricanes and high winds by learning about these best shutter practices.

Top 3 Best Hurricane Shutter Practices

1. Commission Professional Installation

Choose a window and door installation company that specializes in hurricane shutters with a minimum of five years’ experience offering 24/7 emergency services. The business should be licensed and insured with technicians preferably certified by the American Association of Automated Door Manufacturers (AAADM). A reputable commercial door installation company uses the best materials and technologies to install your hurricane shutters efficiently and correctly. Try to have the shutters installed during the off season if they are not part of a new construction since hurricane season is a busy time for these specialists.

2. Schedule Routine Testing

Schedule annual shutter testing a few months prior to hurricane season. Testing generally involves hitting shutters with a 2x4 piece of wood between 7 and 9 feet long. A cannon fires the wood from at least two different locations to test the shutters’ impact resistance. You should also test your shutters for wind resistance to see if they fail or sustain damage such as warping.

3. Keep Your Shutters Clean & Lubricated

Maintain your shutters and their tracks, if applicable, by cleaning debris that may interfere with their capabilities, such as bird nests, insect remains, sand, and salt. Refrain from using harsh chemical cleaners and power washers, as they could cause premature shutter deterioration. Use a water hose on normal pressure to keep your shutters clean.

If your commercial door installation company installed accordion shutters, you need to lubricate the tracks twice a year using a clear silicone spray. Avoid using WD-40 or a similar oily lubricant, as it causes sand and dirt to build up faster. Additionally, open and close your shutters once a month to maintain efficient track operation.

Obtain the hurricane shutters your business needs from Automatic Door Specialists in Waipahu, HI. This commercial door installation company offers over 30 years of experience, an extensive inventory from top manufacturers, and AAADM-certified technicians. 24/7 emergency services are available as well. Call (808) 678-8880 with your commercial door questions or visit the website for a complete service list. Follow them on Facebook to see their latest projects.