Keeping shutters in good shape doesn't just help them last longer, it also keeps your home looking tidy and working just the way you want it to. Sticking to a simple maintenance routine can save you hassle later. It takes less time than people think to spot small problems before they turn into bigger ones. Just a bit of regular care can stop rattling panels, stiff hinges, or faded finishes from creeping in over time.

Different types of shutters need different care routines though. What works for tracked shutters might not suit full-height or solid panel shutters. If you're in Leicester, where the weather shifts quite a bit, those changes can affect how your shutters perform too. Damp winters and humid summers can put extra pressure on wood and mechanisms alike. Let’s go through basic care reminders for all shutters, then take a closer look at looking after tracked shutters next.

General Maintenance Tips For All Shutter Types

No matter which style of shutters you've got, whether they're mounted on tracks or fixed solid panels, they all benefit from the same foundation of care. These steps help keep them working well and looking clean without too much effort.

Here’s what homeowners in Leicester should be doing across every shutter style:

- Wipe them down weekly with a clean, microfibre cloth. Dust builds up quickly, especially near windows where air movement is common. Avoid wet wipes or sprays that could harm the finish.

- Check the hinges and fittings once a month. If they feel loose or sound creaky, gently tighten the screws using a screwdriver. Don’t force anything. If they still feel off, it might need closer attention.

- Be aware of moisture. Wipe away any signs of damp around the window frame or shutter base, especially in bathrooms and kitchens.

- Fully open and close your shutters from time to time to make sure they're still operating smoothly and haven’t shifted out of position.

The key is to catch small changes early. If a panel’s not sitting flush or you notice added resistance when tilting slats, it’s best to act early. A quick fix now prevents bigger repairs later.

Maintaining Tracked Shutters

Tracked shutters are fitted on a rail system, often used across wide spaces like patio doors or between rooms. Since they slide along a track, they tend to collect more debris at the base, making it easier for problems to develop if left unchecked.

Here are some simple ways to keep your tracked shutters running smoothly:

- Vacuum along the track using a nozzle attachment each week. Pet hair, crumbs, or dust can slow down the glide over time.

- Follow up with a dry cloth to catch anything the vacuum missed. Skip any wet cleaners, as leftover moisture can lead to rust or cause wooden shutters to swell.

- Slide the shutters all the way open and shut every few days. This helps prevent sticking and keeps the alignment correct.

- If things feel stiff or start making scraping noises, apply a touch of silicone-based lubricant to the inner section of the track. Stay away from oil-based products that attract dust.

- Look over the rollers regularly. If they seem cracked or worn out, consider replacing them before they start scratching the rail.

Tracked shutters are excellent for saving space and covering long spans, but their ease of movement depends on regular upkeep. Leaves, grit, or dust might seem harmless at first, but they can slowly lead to wobbly movement or jamming panels. Taking care of them helps your shutters glide cleanly every time.

Upkeep For Full-Height And Tier-On-Tier Shutters

Full-height and tier-on-tier shutters get a lot of daily use, especially in Leicester homes that deal with long winters and light-seeking summers. These types of shutters give great coverage and control, but only if they stay lined up and clean.

Start by keeping surfaces tidy. A dry, soft cloth works well for painted slats, which tend to highlight dust and fingerprints. For full-height shutters, work from top to bottom so anything you wipe away doesn’t resettle. With tier-on-tier shutters, take care around the middle area where the movement happens most.

Misaligned panels or latches are a sign something is shifting. These shutters get handled often, so over time, the central hinges and frames might start to move. Leicester’s dry indoor air during colder months can also cause the wood to contract slightly.

Every few months, it helps to inspect:

- Do all the panels close with even spacing?

- Are the centre rails or individual slats starting to bow?

- Do any hinges feel too loose or off balance?

If something feels unstable, tighten it cautiously. Over-tightening can damage the wood, especially if it’s been painted. Spring and autumn are both good times to do a regular once-over. That’s when temperature and humidity start to shift, which can affect how the shutters sit or open.

Regular checks stop small gaps or droops turning into problem areas. This keeps your shutter lines clean, your privacy assured, and lets the designs shut snuggly when drafts hit.

Caring For Solid Panel And Thermal Lining Shutters

Solid panel shutters are great for insulation, especially in Leicester’s colder months, and they give a classic feel to a room. But their flat surfaces need a bit more attention, as they show dust and marks more easily than slatted designs.

Weekly, use a soft, dry cloth to wipe away any surface streaks or buildup. For tougher spots, use a lightly dampened cloth with plain water. Avoid spraying directly onto any surface. Always clean in the direction of the wood grain to avoid leaving obvious marks.

If the panel is painted, and you spot a small chip or scuff, find a matching touch-up paint to cover it. If it’s natural wood or a stained finish, a bit of beeswax or wood polish can help keep the surface from looking worn.

Thermal linings offer comfort by keeping rooms snug, but the material is more delicate. Harsh scrubbing or heavy sprays can wear it down or strip its insulation. Maintain gentle cleaning habits and make sure the lining doesn’t stay damp if condensation builds up.

Here’s what helps both:

1. Use a soft cloth to dust the full panel area weekly.

2. Spot-clean gently with a damp cloth if needed, then dry right away.

3. Check for flaking paint or soft edges around the corners.

4. Press lightly along the thermal layer occasionally to check for hidden moisture.

5. Allow for airflow by keeping nearby air vents clear and ensuring curtains or furniture don’t press against them.

A simple fix from a customer in Leicester showed how moving a sofa just a few inches gave their shutters room to breathe and stopped that musty, damp feeling from creeping in. That little bit of airflow made all the difference.

Caring for these designs doesn’t need to be intensive. It just takes regular cleaning with an eye for small changes.

Keeping Your Shutters Working Season After Season



Every type of shutter brings something unique to your home, whether that's warmth, privacy, or bold character. Keeping each one in shape doesn’t have to take much time. If you stay on top of the little things — wiping down, checking hinges, watching for damp — they tend to stay reliable all year.

In Leicester, where weather swings across rainy springs and chilled winters, a few minutes every month spent on your shutters can make a big difference. That kind of proactive care keeps panels lined up and surfaces looking great.

Of course, not every issue shows up right away. That’s where a professional touch can go a long way. Loose hinges might look fine but could be wearing down the frame. A window that lets in condensation might seem harmless until mildew begins settling behind the shutters.

Having someone knowledgeable take a look means nothing gets overlooked. Whether your tracked shutters are grinding or your thermal linings lose their feel, it’s worth having help to set it right. Keeping things smooth saves stress and keeps your Leicester home feeling polished year-round.

Whether it's keeping your shutters running smoothly or making sure they last through every season, having a professional handle the more detailed work can make all the difference. If you're in Leicester, British Made Shutters offers expert care for all styles, including tracked shutters. Let our team help keep your home comfortable and your shutters looking their best, year after year.