Security doors and shutters are constructed in such a manner that they are durable, yet just like you have installed around the house or at your workplace, they require a little care to ensure that they continue to operate as expected. The positive thing is that most of the maintenance is easy. You do not require any special tools, training or having a handyman at hand. All it takes is a little cleaning and regular maintenance to ensure that they last years longer and you do not have the expensive repairs that always seem to happen at the most inconvenient time. 

Looking After Security Doors. 

Security doors have to be made to bear a lot, weather, constant traffic and even forced entry. However, with time, dirt, dust and moisture may do their job. The simplest means of saving your investment is also one of the simplest: keep it clean. 

You need only a soft cloth, warm water and mild detergent. Clean the frame and the panels once or twice in a year to prevent the accumulation of grime. You will want to do this a little more frequently, especially when living by the coast, as the salt in the air accelerates corrosion. Consider it the same way as washing your car, frequent cleaning does not merely make the car look good, it makes it tough as well. 

Other places that should be monitored are hinges and locks. Hinges are to move free of squeaking. When you hear a sound or get stiff, a quick spray of lubricant will normally work. Use a dry lubricant instead of oily sprays as oils get dust and dirt, which make things cloggy in the long run. The same goes for locks. Make sure that the key turns without difficulty and the lock does not stick. It is far simpler to test it on a regular basis as opposed to finding out it is not opening when you are attempting to lock up late at night. 

In case your door has either mesh or glass inserts, they will also require some work. Warm soapy water is the most effective in the cleaning of stainless steel mesh panels. In the case of glass, any normal glass cleaner can be used. Do not be too abrasive, though–this may sound like a quick method of scrubbing away marks, but it has the disadvantage of scratching the surface and destroying the finish. 

Occasionally, have a good look at the entire door. Check the presence of rust spots, paint chips, or loose screws. Typically these are fast solutions when they are spotted in good time. A spot of touch-up paint or screwdriver tightening can preclude a larger issue in the future. When unattended, however, rust may spread, and minor problems may become an expensive repair job. 

Looking After Security Shutters. 

Shutters have another task to perform than doors, but the rule is the same – frequent maintenance makes them dependable. Moving parts are the most vulnerable, since they roll up and down so frequently. 

Checking the tracks is the first thing to check. Dust, dirt, and even spider webs may accumulate in it, and it becomes more difficult to move the shutter in a smooth manner. When you have ever attempted to draw one down and it has jerked or strained, it has generally been that something has been caught in the track. Frequent brush-out and wipe with wet cloth will keep things moving freely. 

When you have manual shutters, then examine the handles and springs. The tension of the springs is lost with time and in case the shutter is suddenly heavy or hard to roll, it could be because of it. Checking of the handles and latches also is necessary, ensure that they are still firmly in place, and are not becoming loose. 

In the case of motorised shutters, the motor itself does not normally require much attention, although it is prudent to hear out any changes. When it all of a sudden seems louder, or the shutter is not moving evenly, then the motor might be overworking. In the majority of cases, however, it will only be necessary to keep the tracks clear and the panels clean so that the motor does not have to work under additional stress. 

Cleaning the panels is easy. Warm, soapy water and soft cloth or sponge. Even aluminium shutters may begin to appear dull in case they remain dirty too long. A rapid wash after every two months will give them a fresh look and will prolong the life of the finish. 

As doors, have shutters frequently examined. Check for dents and scratches or components that do not close straight. A misaligned shutter can allow drafts in, decrease security and cause undue strain to the moving components. It is much more trouble to repair the alignment problems early than to deal with them later. 

Keeping It Simple 

Consistency is the most important thing with the security doors and shutters. One small push here and there is a lot. It does not mean spending your weekends polishing or taking things apart, it is just doing little things consistently so the large issues never get an opportunity to present themselves. 

Here’s a simple routine: 

Clean: Clean frames, panels and tracks once or twice a year (more frequently in a dusty place or near the coast). 

Oil: If hinges and locks are squeaky or stiff, apply a dry lubricant. 

Check: Every few months, check for rust, chips, dents or loose parts. 

Test: Check locks, latches and motors. 

When you observe something serious, such as a lock which cannot be turned, a motor which keeps on jamming, apparent structural damage, then it is time to call a professional. But all other stuff can be easily handled on your own, as far as day-to-day care is concerned. 

Security doors and shutters are an investment in the security of your property, and, just like any investment, they are worth maintaining. A small cleaning and maintenance not only keeps them in shape, but will make sure they will perform when you need them the most. It is only a few dollars to take time to check on them every now and then in order to have years of a reliable protection.