Corrosion-Resistant Shutters: Preventing Deterioration and Decay in Australia’s Harsh Climate

Exposed to the harsh Australian elements daily, exterior shutters can fall victim to deterioration and corrosion if not properly maintained. From the salt air of the coasts to the intense UV exposure inland, Australia’s climate is tough on exterior building materials. Thankfully, by selecting the right corrosion-resistant shutter materials and with proper care, it’s possible to install window shutters that will withstand the test of time.

This article explores the causes of shutter decay, provides tips on choosing durable materials optimized for Australia’s environment, and shares maintenance musts for preventing corrosion. With the right knowledge, homeowners nationwide can protect their investment and prevent their home’s curb appeal from being compromised by the damaging effects of weathering.

The Causes of Shutter Deterioration in Australia

Shutters endure a brutal existence installed outdoors with constant environmental exposure. Factors like coastal moisture, intense sunlight, pollution, and temperature extremes work together to wear materials down over time. Understanding what causes common shutter issues can help homeowners prevent and proactively treat problems.

Exposure to Moisture

Frequent wetting from coastal rains, tropical downpours or sprinklers leads to swelling, cupping and cracking in wood over time. Prolonged dampness also enables decay-causing fungus and mildew growth. In metals, moisture allows corroding chemicals like chlorides from sea spray to penetrate deeply. Oxidation accelerates when materials remain wet. Absorbed moisture strains materials as it expands and contracts within cracks.

Intense Sunlight and Heat

Australia’s harsh sunlight and high temperatures hasten exterior wear and tear in several ways:

• UV rays degrade wood oils leading to drying, bleaching, and cracking. They also break down paints and finishes.
• Daily expansion and contraction from extreme heat stresses shutter materials.
• High temperatures accelerate chemical reactions speeding many types of corrosion.
• Temperature swings worsen cycles of moisture absorption and drying.

Pollution and Environmental Factors

Airborne pollutants take a cumulative toll on exterior shutters, especially near industrial and urban areas:

• Industrial emissions and vehicle exhaust produce acids which extract nutrients from wood.
• Ozone degrades rubber seals and erodes paints and finishes.
• Coastal sea salt spray penetrates deep into woods and metals initiating oxidation.
• Dust and grime abrade surfaces when washed over shutters during heavy rains.

While nearly impossible to avoid completely, diligent finish renewal and proper sealing helps withstand exposure.

Time and Wear

Even in ideal conditions, shutters will weather simply from years of everyday use:

• Seasonal movement leads to loosening at joints, causing splitting and cracking over decades.
• Routine opening/closing wears down finishes and weakens mechanical connections.
• Age deteriorates seals allowing eventual moisture intrusion.
• Bumps and scrapes inevitably damage protective finishes.

While unavoidable, proper installation and hardware adjustments over time minimize wear-related issues.

How to Select Corrosion-Resistant Shutter Materials

The very best defense against deterioration starts with material selection. When only the most durable, long-lasting shutters will do, consider these proven materials optimized to withstand Australia’s climate:

Western Red Cedar

Western red cedar is naturally resistant to moisture, decay and pests thanks to its unique properties:

• Dense grain helps water bead up and roll off rather than soak in.
• Natural oils combat mildew and repel insects.
• Tannins protect the wood from UV degradation without chemical additives.
• Dimensional stability resists wide shrinking/swelling from humidity changes.
• Lightweight yet exceptionally strong for durability.
• Rich color and distinctive grain for aesthetic appeal.

With proper installation and finish maintenance, Western red cedar shutters will grace homes for decades with minimal wear.

Teak

Used for centuries in shipbuilding and fine exterior joinery, genuine teak has proven itself as one of the world’s most weather-resistant timbers:

• Very dense grain and natural oils keep water from penetrating into the wood.
• Resists swelling/shrinking and resists checking, cracking and splitting.
• Natural durability and oil content fight off fungus, mold and wood-boring pests.
• Develops a distinguished silver-grey patina over time in outdoor applications.
• Sustainably harvested teak certified by the Forest Stewardship Council available.

While moderately expensive, teak’s longevity makes it a worthwhile investment.

Aluminum

Where low-maintenance, high-durability matters most, marine-grade powder-coated aluminum is the ultimate corrosion-fighting shutter material:

• Alloys like 5052 and 6061 are formulated to endure oceanfront conditions.
• Anodizing creates an impermeable oxide layer for advanced protection.
• Color finishes allow aluminum to complement home styles from traditional to modern.
• Installation hardware is likewise engineered for maximum service life.
• Requires only routine cleaning compared to refinishing wood shutters.

Aluminum is unmatched where reliable performance in harsh coastal environments is needed.

PVC Composite

Polyvinyl chloride (PVC) mixed with inorganic fillers creates moisture and rot-proof shutters:

• Won’t crack, warp or peel like wood materials.
• Pigments and UV inhibitors provide excellent fade and discoloration resistance.
• Polymer composition deters termites/decay inherent to natural woods.
• Lightweight compared to timber shutters.
• Available textured to mimic wood grain look.
• Flexible material resists denting and stands up to wind, rain and hail.
• Typically backed by 10-year or longer warranties.

PVC composite delivers the look of wood with carefree outdoor durability.

Fundamentals of Corrosion-Resistant Shutter Installation

Proper installation is key to maximize the service life of any exterior shutters, but especially vital for premium corrosion-resistant products where multi-decade performance is expected. Poor installation techniques can undermine even the finest materials. Here are professional recommendations for properly installing outdoor shutters in Australia’s harsh environment:

Allow for Expansion

• Leave a minimum 5mm gap around the entire shutter perimeter to accommodate seasonal movement.
• Use spacers during installation to maintain proper spacing.
• Avoid driving fasteners tightly as this restricts required expansion & contraction.

Seal All Exposed Edges

• Coat any unfinished exposed timber edges with a water-resistant barrier like paint or urethane.
• Pay special attention to cut outs and drilled holes. Use exterior putty or adhesives as needed.
• Caulk along back shutter edges but leave outer faces unsealed for ventilation.

Use Non-Corrosive Hardware

• Choose hot dipped galvanized, aluminum or stainless steel screws, bolts, hinges and hangers.
• Avoid unprotected steel hardware which will rapidly corrode when exposed.
• Apply anti-seize lubricant to hardware to ease future adjustments.

Install Flashings Above and Along Sides

• Install head flashing above and side flashings flanking shutters to divert moisture.
• Use corrosion-resistant metals or UV-stable rubber flashing materials.
• Seal all flashing termination points and seams thoroughly using primer and sealant.

Allow Air Circulation Behind

• Avoid tight sealing shutters directly against the house. Leave a gap for airflow.
• Ventilation drying out any moisture that accumulates behind shutters.
• Use weatherstripping only along shutter edges, not sealing off the full backside.

Consult a professional if uncertain how to best install shutters on your home’s unique facade. Proper spacing, flashing and drainage principles will help minimize deterioration.

Maintenance Musts for Weather-Resistant Shutters

The finest materials still require routine maintenance for peak longevity when used outdoors. Keeping finishes fresh, adjusting hardware and promptly fixing any damage prevents minor issues from becoming major repairs or full replacement.

RegularCleaning

• Remove accumulated dirt, dust, grime and salt before it hardens and builds up.
• Clean wood shutters with mild detergent and water. Avoid harsh chemicals.
• Rinse aluminum and vinyl shutters with plain water.
• Inspect for mildew or algae growth in damp climates and treat with gentle cleaner immediately if found.

Touch Up Finishes

• Watch for peeling, cracking, blistering or worn sections of paint or stain and spot treat as needed.
• Lightly sand damaged areas and spot reapply protective finish every 1-2 years.
• Completely refinish shutters every 4-5 years or whenever glossiness starts declining.

Inspect Hardware

• Tighten any loose hinge screws or bolts to account for building settlement.
• Replace any visibly corroded or degrading hardware components.
• Ensure operable parts move freely then lubricate. Check locks engage securely.

Fix Damage Promptly

• Fill small nicks and gouges quickly to prevent moisture intrusion.
• Address larger damaged areas, cracks or splintered sections as soon as possible.
• Replace individual shutters if damage is beyond surface repair.

Routine preventative shutter maintenance is simple and pays off by extending shutter lifespan significantly. Seek qualified help if needing major repairs.

Solutions for Restoring Badly Weathered Shutters

If preventative maintenance lapses and shutters become significantly weathered, restoration is often possible depending on the material and extent of decay:

Refinish Timber Shutters

• For mild surface weathering, sanding followed by new paint or penetrating stains may suffice.
• Using epoxy-based fillers can repair small to medium cracks and damaged sections.
• Replace badly warped or split boards beyond salvage.
• Complete disassembly may be required for comprehensive refinishing.

Restore Aluminum Shutters

• Remove severe oxidation and re-anodize to renew corrosion protection.
• Lightly abrade and recoat with fresh powder coating for minor finish issues.
• Replace individual damaged louvers or hanging hardware too deteriorated to save.

Repair Composite Shutters

• Fill scratches and dents with bonding filler to restore appearance.
• Replace individual damaged shutters as composites cannot be reliably recoated or refinished.
• Renew color by cleaning with diluted bleach solution.

In many cases, professional restoration services can rehabilitate shutters at a fraction of full replacement cost. But extensive deterioration will eventually necessitate complete replacement.

When to Opt for New Shutters

If shutters become excessively damaged or weathered, replacement should be considered. Warning signs it’s time for new shutters include:

• Large areas of significant wood rot beyond surface refinishing.
• Severe cracking, splintering, termites or fungal decay.
• Warping that compromises structural integrity.
• Heavy pitting, flaking or cracks in aluminum indicating advanced corrosion.
• Poor previous repairs using substandard materials.
• Outdated or undesirable shutter style detracting from home.
• Improved materials or insulation want to upgrade efficiency.
• Restoration cost approaching 50% or more of new shutter expense.
• Decreased resale value due to home’s worn, neglected appearance.

Although labor intensive, shutter replacement provides a fresh new facade and contemporary material options.

Protect Valuable Original Craftsmanship

On historic homes or architecturally significant buildings, repairing original wood shutters may be preferred rather than replacement to protect their artisanal craftsmanship and design.

• Irreplaceable timber species like jarrah, ironbark or blackbutt may have been used.
• Handcrafted joinery and detailing have artistic value.
• Period designs reflect the home’s heritage.

Consult specialists about options for sympathetically restoring heritage timber shutters to preserve their lasting value.

We Can Help You Achieve Long-Lasting Shutters

The first key to durable, weather-resistant shutters is proper material selection for Australia’s environment. Next comes professional installation followed by vigilant maintenance. But even with quality materials and care, restoration or replacement may eventually become necessary after decades of service.

If your home’s shutters are showing signs of wear, contact our experts for assessment and recommendations. We’ll advise whether refinishing, repairs or full replacement is the best solution for your situation. With our help, you can protect your property’s beauty and value with shutters engineered to endure Australia’s harsh climate for generations. Invest in shutters built to last.