Impact hurricane windows and doors are essential for protecting your home against extreme weather conditions, but do they require any specific maintenance during hurricane season? This comprehensive guide explores the maintenance tasks necessary to ensure the optimal performance and longevity of your impact windows and doors, helping you safeguard your home and loved ones during hurricane season.
Understanding Impact Hurricane Windows and Doors
Before delving into maintenance requirements, let’s review the purpose and benefits of impact hurricane windows and doors. These specialized products are designed to withstand the force of high winds, flying debris, and other hazards associated with hurricanes and severe storms. Constructed with laminated glass and reinforced frames, impact windows and doors provide superior protection against breakage and intrusion, helping to safeguard both property and occupants during extreme weather events.
Regular Maintenance Tasks
1. Inspect Seals and Weatherstripping: Start by inspecting the seals and weatherstripping around your impact windows and doors. Check for any wear, damage, or deterioration, such as cracks, gaps, or loose seals. Replace any damaged or worn weatherstripping to ensure a tight seal and prevent water infiltration during heavy or wind-driven rain.
2. Clean Glass Surfaces: Clean your impact windows and doors by regularly washing the glass surfaces with a mild detergent and water solution. Use a soft cloth or sponge to gently remove dirt, debris, and salt residue, paying attention to the corners and edges where buildup may occur. Avoid using abrasive cleaners or harsh chemicals that could damage the glass or frame finishes.
3. Lubricate Hardware Components: Check the hardware components of your impact windows and doors, including hinges, handles, and locks, for smooth operation. Apply a silicone-based lubricant to lubricate moving parts and ensure they function correctly. Lubricating the hardware prevents rust and corrosion, prolonging the lifespan of your windows and doors.
4. Inspect Frame and Glass for Damage: Regularly inspect the frame and glass of your impact windows and doors for any signs of damage, such as cracks, chips, or scratches. If you notice any damage, promptly repair or replace the affected components to maintain your windows and doors’ structural integrity and effectiveness.
Preparing for Hurricane Season
In addition to regular maintenance tasks, there are specific steps you can take to prepare your impact windows and doors for hurricane season:
1. Trim Surrounding Trees and Shrubs: Trim any overhanging branches or foliage that could impact your windows and doors during high winds. Removing debris and vegetation from around your home reduces the risk of damage and enhances the effectiveness of your impact windows and doors.
2. Secure Outdoor Furniture and Objects: Secure outdoor furniture, potted plants, and other objects that could become projectiles during a hurricane. Store or secure these items indoors or in a secure location to prevent them from causing damage to your windows and doors or other parts of your home.
3. Stock Up on Emergency Supplies: As part of your hurricane preparedness plan, stock up on essential emergency supplies, including food, water, batteries, flashlights, and first aid supplies. Ensure you have a reliable means of communication and a plan in place for evacuation or sheltering in place, if necessary.
4. Review Emergency Procedures: Familiarize yourself and your family members with emergency procedures for securing your home and staying safe during a hurricane. Know how to operate impact windows and doors properly, lock them securely, and activate additional security features.
5. Consider Impact Shutter Systems: Besides impact windows and doors, consider investing in impact shutter systems for protection during severe weather events. Impact shutters provide an extra layer of defense against high winds, flying debris, and water infiltration, further enhancing the safety and security of your home.
Professional Maintenance Services
While homeowners can perform many maintenance tasks, some may require the expertise of professional contractors or technicians. Consider hiring a licensed and experienced contractor to perform routine maintenance and inspections of your impact windows and doors, especially if you need more time and confidence in your ability to do so yourself. Professional maintenance services can help identify and address issues or concerns before they escalate into more significant problems.
Conclusion: Protecting Your Home During Hurricane Season
In conclusion, maintaining impact hurricane windows and doors is essential for ensuring the optimal performance and longevity of these critical components of your home. By following regular maintenance tasks and taking proactive steps to prepare for hurricane season, you can enhance your home’s safety, security, and resilience against extreme weather events. Whether you choose to perform maintenance yourself or enlist the help of professionals, the key is to prioritize the protection of your home and loved ones. We help keep your impact windows and doors in top condition. Contact us today to learn more about our maintenance services and schedule a consultation for your home.
