Waterproof Shutters: Repelling Rain and Moisture Infiltration in Australia

Contrary to perception, standard decorative exterior shutters can allow water penetration leading to damage. But specialized water-resistant and waterproof shutter options are available to protect windows and interiors. These repel liquid ingress even under heavy wind-driven downpours. Waterproof shutters defend homes in flood zones and during cyclonic tropical rains across storm-prone regions of Australia.

This guide covers the water protection challenges shutters face, ratings and certifications to look for, materials and design options for waterproofing, plus proper installation. Follow the recommendations to select tested watertight shutters that help safeguard property from Australia’s intense storms and flooding events.

The Threats of Moisture Penetration

Decorative exterior shutters seem like they should act as rain barriers. But without proper materials and weather seals, water infiltration still occurs:

Wind-driven downpours push water through tiny joints and cracks around shutter perimeters and hardware openings.
Capillary action draws liquid through microscopic material pores of dense wood and porous composites over time.
Unprotected shutter panel joinery and unfinished material cut edges also allow moisture migration behind.
Sun-fading and wear deteriorate factory edge seals and gaskets losing water resistance.
Extreme pressures and debris strikes during high wind and hailstorms can dislodge shutters and any marginal weatherstripping.

Even small amounts of water intrusion over years causes issues like:

Damage to window frames, sills and interiors from chronic leaks and high interior humidity.
Corrosion and rotting of materials attracting termites.
Appearance issues like water staining, paint damage, and mold growth.
Loss of indoor environmental control raising heating and cooling costs.

Preventing water ingress relies on proper design, materials and installation for Australia’s wet tropical climate zones.

WaterPenetration Test Standards

Established test protocols help determine and certify a shutter’s waterproof rating:

AS/NZS 4284 Testing

The Australian and New Zealand standard assesses water penetration resistance. Testing methods include:

Cyclical static air pressure differential across shutter up to 1500 Pa water column.
Water sprayed at increasing litres/min/m2 incrementally from 0 to ~270 l/hr/m2 onto entire assembly.
No uncontrolled water leakage inside can occur. Some dampness may transmit through materials but not as definable streams.
Optional water immersion testing with hose stream at 250 kPa.

AAMA and ASTM Standards

The American Architectural Manufacturers Association and ASTM have complementary monolithic water penetration testing criteria widely adopted in Australia including:

15-minute water deluge at ~2 gal/hr/ft2 (or 270 l/hr/m2) with simultaneous 74 km/hr wind gusts.
Specimen tilted from vertical to simulate wall angles.
No visible streams of water penetration permitted to pass criteria.

Select shutters certified to repel driving rain under wind loads matching your locale.

Waterproof and Water-Resistant Shutter Options

Several shutter types deliver protection from downpours:

Waterproof Storm Shutters

Hinged panels of solid aluminum and steel with weather seals that close tightly forming unbroken rain barriers.
Laminated glass viewport options for light. Solid provides maximum water resistance.
Available with 80+ psf wind load ratings for cyclonic regions when properly installed.
Ideal for temporary deployment in the harshest weather when needed.

Water-Resistant Plantation Shutters

Louvered designs using durable water-repellent woods like cedar, or with flood-proof PVC slats.
Clear finishes allowing cedar’s natural oils to repel moisture recommended.
When kept closed, small louver and perimeter gaps shield against light to moderate rains.
Provide ventilation when needed unlike solid panels.
Available with integrated hidden rain gutters within frames on some models.

Water-Repellent Cafe Shutters

Extruded aluminum frames and guide tracks resist corrosion.
Overlapping channel designs and flexible seals limit water intrusion between interlocking slats.
Drains and weep holes allow condensation and leakage runoff.
Robust bottom tracks with drainage channels to divert water outside.
Rated for moderate rainfall but less waterproofing than solid panels.

Select ratings and features suited to your climate and weathering needs. Seek certified water protection.

Keys to Waterproof Shutter Installation

Proper installation matching factory specifications ensures certified water resistance performance:

Use recommended sealants and barrier tapes at all material joints and hardware penetrations. Avoid unsealed openings.
Fasten frames and tracks with a right seal against structural elements. Don’t just anchor into trim boards.
Adjust hinges, guides and hardware for smooth operation without binding or offset gaps.
Ensure weep holes and drains align correctly to evacuate any moisture buildup externally.
Caulk perimeter edges fully but leave back face open for ventilation where possible.
Check for plumb/level mounting and even reveal gaps before sealing. Shim as needed.
Use flashings and slope sills away from mounts avoiding trapped standing water.

Consult our water penetration experts on proper details suited to your home’s construction.

Matching Waterproof Windows and Doors

For comprehensive liquid protection also install:

Waterproof Windows

Laminated glazing or multi-walled polycarbonate panes resist water ingress when shutters are open.
Frames and seals made with marine-grade aluminum or uv-resistant reinforced PVC. Avoid unprotected wood frames.
Hydrophobic coatings cause beading and runoff defending glass even without shutters.

Water-Resistant Doors

Certified water-resistant door slabs made of galvanized steel, fiberglass or aluminum.
Durable compressed weatherstripping like silicone rubber or vinyl. Avoid felt or brush types that degrade and absorb moisture.
Sloped sills and flashings divert runoff without seeping under.

Surround specialty shutters with other hardened exterior components for layered liquid defense.

Let Us Help You Select Waterproof Shutters

Don’t settle for standard decorative shutters when you need verifiable water protection from intense rains. We offer shutters proven to achieve certified water resistance through scientific testing. Our team stays current on advancing shutter technology and best installation practices suited for wet climates. Invest in rugged shutters designed to match Australia’s harsh conditions. Contact us to review waterproofing options that keep interiors dry and possessions protected from the elements.