An additional benefit of having roller shutters installed is that they require very little maintenance and upkeep to work at their optimum efficiency. There are, however, some simple steps that you can take to keep them at their best.
Maintaining roller shutters
An important step to maintaining your shutters is to ensure that the guides along which the shutters run are clean and free from any litter or debris. Sweeping this away is simple to do, but will contribute to ongoing smooth operation. Likewise, checking the pelmet for any leaves, twigs or dirt that may have found their way in there and sweeping these away is also very useful.
Making sure that you open and close your window roller shutters with some care will also contribute to their longevity and trouble-free operation. Ensuring that the shutter doesn't slam into the box on opening and that it’s firmly closed before locking are also useful tips.
As a final maintenance tip, greasing the bearings once a year will ensure that the rolling mechanism continues to operate smoothly, while lubricating the guide rails at the same time will also mean easy opening and closing.
Cleaning roller shutters
Cleaning the surface of your roller shutters is simple to do, and will avoid a build up of dirt and debris that might stop them from operating smoothly.
Every three months or so, with the shutters just slightly open, brush out the ventilation holes and then brush away any debris from the surface. You can then hose your shutters down, following this up by washing them with a sponge and a mild soap in warm water (in the same way you’d wash your car). You can then hose them down and wipe them dry (from top to bottom, up and down) using an absorbent cloth.
It’s important to know that abrasive cleaners, solvents or methylated spirits should not be used to clean your roller shutters, nor should steel wool, scrubbing brushes or scrapers, as these could potentially damage the enamel surface. When hosing down, a garden hose is sufficient (a high pressure spray isn’t necessary) and you should try to avoid spraying water directly into the pelmet or head box.