You didn’t install shutters just because they look fantastic – though they do! Shutters are also the most durable of all window coverings, giving you longevity for your investment. But, like anything, they do need a little maintenance to keep in prime condition.
A routine of regular upkeep will protect your shutters and keep them looking like new. What’s good to know is that the best maintenance is actually surprisingly easy! Here’s how to keep your shutters in premium condition.
Dust, Dust, Dust
Take a trip back to your grandparents’ time, and we’re willing to bet the smell of polish was a regular thing, but let’s be honest, the hectic pace of modern life means that – gasp! – many of us don’t spend as much time polishing as previous generations somehow managed.
Most interior shutters, including your timber shutters, are finished with either a paint, lacquer, or stain that doesn’t need polish. In fact, polish can build up, leave streaks, or make the surface slightly tacky, which only attracts more dust.
The best way to keep shutters looking their best is much simpler: Regular dusting with a microfibre cloth or a feather duster.
Deeper cleans with a slightly damp cloth (just water, or water with a tiny drop of mild washing-up liquid if needed), followed immediately by drying with a clean cloth. For marks or fingerprints, the damp cloth method works fine.
If polish is used regularly, it can actually damage the finish over time. So we’d say avoid it completely.
The best way to dust shutters is to see it as a relaxing ritual. Give yourself the time to become absorbed in the pleasures of it rather than treating it like a chore. Pretty soon, you’ll look forward to it, we promise!
The Deep Clean
If your shutters have been left a long time and a simple dust isn’t quite going to do it, then a once-off deeper clean may be necessary. Make sure to check the care guidelines on your shutters or, if you’re unsure, just give us a quick call at SSC and we’ll put you on the right track.
Each shutter material is a little different in how to clean it:
- Wood – A damp soft cloth and some mild soap is perfect. Avoid harsh chemicals – they’re not needed and typically do more harm than good. Make sure you dry immediately, as you don’t want to leave your wooden louvres damp at all.
- Composite / Vinyl – These are more tolerant of getting wet, so you can be a little more vigorous with warm soapy water than with wood. Again, though, don’t leave them soaking as it does them no good.
- Aluminium – Use a gentle detergent to get these shining, but be sure to avoid abrasive cleaners. Aluminium is water resistant, so there’s less worry there, but they can end up smeared if you don’t bother to dry, so we still recommend it.
For a more detailed explanation of how to clean your shutters, visit this page here…
Protect Them from Moisture and Humidity
Unless your shutters are a water-resistant material that’s designed for bathroom or kitchen use, they’re not going to love getting wet. In Scotland, and the UK in general, humid environments are common, so you do need to be aware and take some care.
If your shutters are in a wet environment, such as a bathroom, and are not specifically waterproof shutters, then you will need to pay attention to them and potentially add a regular dry to your routine. In truth, at the Scottish Shutter Company, we only advocate installing waterproof shutters in bathrooms for this reason.
Wipe the condensation from your shutters as soon as it occurs – whatever room they’re in. Leaving it there, even for a short time, is going to lower the lifespan.
Lower humidity in your bathrooms by ensuring there’s good airflow – crack the window a bit even in colder weather. Extractor fans are also good and should be left to run for a few minutes even once you’ve left the room. If you have the type of fan that comes on and off with the light, it’s worth leaving the light on for five to ten minutes once you’re done (but don’t forget to turn it off to save energy when you’re done).
In areas of extremely high condensation, consider a dehumidifier. These marvellous machines suck the moisture out of the air and are invaluable in enclosed areas with high humidity and poor ventilation. Not only will you add to your shutter lifespan, you’ll also keep away mould.
Reducing UV Damage
Your shutters are the first line of defence for your home against the harsh UV rays of the sun. By blocking and filtering the light, they prevent your furniture and possessions from unwanted fading.
Though the shutters are well-protected against UV, over time they may suffer themselves. You can help prevent long-term UV damage to your shutters by regularly changing the angle of the louvres. A minor change in position will help a lot, making sure the powerful rays don’t always land in the same place
Looking After Hinges and Moving Parts
Shutters are designed to move, so it’s worth giving the hinges and moving parts a quick check once a year. If you notice any stiffness, a light application of silicone spray to the metal parts will keep everything moving smoothly. Apply sparingly, and always avoid getting spray on the shutter louvres, as it can leave marks.
Screws, too, should be carefully tightened if they’ve worked loose – a few minutes of yearly upkeep can make a huge difference.
Larger Repairs
Well looked after, your shutters will last for many years – but accidents do happen. If the cat’s scratched some paint off, or someone leaned too hard and broken a slat, it’s good to get them fixed without too much delay. Contact us at SSC if your shutters need any larger repairs, and we’ll help get things sorted.
Of course, if we installed your shutters in the first place, then any defects are covered for the first five years by a comprehensive manufacturer’s warranty. Just let us know if something’s gone wrong, and we’ll be there to make it right as quickly as possible.
Shutters with Incredible Longevity from the Scottish Shutter Company
If you’re looking for more advice on shutter care or considering installing new shutters, speak with an expert at SSC. We can help you understand your shutters better and offer a fully bespoke installation to ensure your shutters are fitted with precision.
Download our brochure or call today.
