Preparing Your Shutters for Houston Hurricane Season
Hurricane season runs from June through November in Houston, and while plantation shutters aren't storm shutters, they play an important role in protecting your windows and home interior. Here's your complete guide to preparing your shutters for hurricane season.
Pre-Season Inspection (Do This in May)
Check Structural Integrity:
- Test each shutter panel for secure mounting
- Ensure all hinges are tight and functional
- Verify louvers close completely and form a seal
- Look for loose tilt rods or damaged louvers
Why this matters: During a storm, loose shutters can bang against windows, potentially causing glass damage. Properly mounted, closed shutters provide an extra layer of window protection.
Repair Now, Not During Storm Season: If you discover problems during your inspection, get them repaired in May or early June. Shutter repair companies are slammed once a hurricane enters the Gulf.
The 72-Hour Hurricane Checklist
When a hurricane threatens Houston (within 72 hours), follow this shutter preparation sequence:
72 Hours Before:
✓ Test all shutters to ensure they open and close smoothly ✓ Lubricate any sticking hinges or tilt rods ✓ Identify and repair any loose mounting hardware ✓ Remove decorative items from windowsills
48 Hours Before:
✓ Clean shutters and windows (you may not be able to access them for weeks after) ✓ Check weatherstripping and seals ✓ Ensure you have interior access to all shutter controls
24 Hours Before:
✓ Close all shutters completely ✓ Tilt louvers to fully closed position ✓ Lock any locking shutters ✓ Place towels on windowsills below shutters (if expecting heavy rain)
Interior Plantation Shutters vs. Storm Protection
Important: Plantation shutters are NOT hurricane shutters. They won't protect against projectiles or extreme wind pressure. However, they do:
- Protect glass from interior flying debris
- Provide an additional barrier against water intrusion
- Reduce the chance of window implosion causing interior damage
- Offer privacy during power outages
If you're in a mandatory evacuation zone or have windows vulnerable to flying debris, install proper storm shutters or plywood OUTSIDE your windows before closing your plantation shutters.
Post-Storm Inspection
After the storm passes and it's safe to inspect:
Immediate Check (Day 1):
- Open shutters slowly and check for water intrusion
- Look for warping or damage from humidity/water
- Test all mechanisms before fully opening
- Document any damage with photos for insurance
Week-After Maintenance:
- Clean thoroughly to remove storm debris and moisture
- Dry completely if they got wet
- Lubricate all moving parts
- Tighten any hardware loosened by vibration
- Schedule professional repairs for any damage
Water Damage Prevention
Houston hurricanes often bring flooding and extreme humidity:
During the Storm:
- Keep shutters closed to minimize moisture exposure
- Place towels at windowsills if water seeps in
- Run dehumidifiers if you have generator power
After the Storm:
- Open shutters as soon as safe to promote air circulation
- Wipe down any moisture immediately
- Check for mold daily for two weeks
- Don't close shutters again until completely dry
Insurance Documentation
Before hurricane season:
- Photograph all shutters in good condition
- Document any pre-existing damage
- Include shutters in your home inventory
- Understand your policy's coverage for interior window treatments
After storm damage:
- Photograph all damage before cleaning up
- Keep damaged parts for insurance adjuster
- Get repair estimates quickly
- File claims promptly
Emergency Shutter Repairs
If shutters are damaged during a storm:
- Broken louvers: Remove completely if hanging dangerously
- Hanging panels: Secure with rope or bungee cords temporarily
- Water damage: Dry immediately and call for professional assessment within 48 hours
Professional Pre-Season Service
American Shutter Company offers pre-hurricane season inspections and repairs:
- Complete structural assessment
- Hardware tightening and replacement
- Louver and tilt rod repairs
- Emergency repair priority for existing customers
Schedule your pre-season shutter inspection: Call (281) 441-7998 before June 1st to ensure your shutters are storm-ready.
Final Thoughts
While plantation shutters aren't your primary hurricane defense, properly maintained and prepared shutters provide valuable secondary protection for your windows and home interior. Take the time to inspect and repair them before storm season—you'll be glad you did when the next hurricane threatens Houston.
Stay safe, Houston!