Outdoor blinds are a fantastic investment for Aussie homes, offering shade, privacy, and stylish protection from the elements. But during storm season — when wind, rain and debris are all too common — even the most durable blinds need a little TLC to keep them performing their best.

Here’s your go-to guide for maintaining outdoor blinds through unpredictable weather, ensuring they last longer and continue looking great.

Why Outdoor Blind Maintenance Matters

Outdoor blinds are exposed to everything the elements throw their way — UV rays, heavy rain, wind, and airborne debris. Without proper care, these factors can cause fading, stretching, rusting, or even tearing over time.

Maintaining your blinds not only extends their lifespan but also protects the look and functionality of your outdoor spaces. Whether you’ve installed café-style blinds, eZip blinds or track-guided systems, regular upkeep is the key to keeping them storm-ready.

1. Inspect Your Blinds Before Storm Season Hits

Before stormy weather sets in, take a moment to give your outdoor blinds a once-over.

Look out for:

• Tears or fraying at the edges
• Rust forming on metal components
• Dirt buildup in the side tracks or rollers
• Loose fittings or worn-out zips

Catching these early means you can fix small problems before they become bigger, more expensive issues.

2. Keep Them Clean and Debris-Free

Storm season often brings dust, leaves, pollen and grime that can accumulate on your blinds. A gentle clean will prevent damage and help them continue operating smoothly.

How to clean your outdoor blinds:

• Use a soft cloth or sponge with mild soap and lukewarm water
• Avoid abrasive tools or harsh chemicals, as these can damage the fabric or coating
• Rinse thoroughly and allow the blinds to air dry before rolling them back up

Cleaning also prevents mould and mildew — especially important in areas with high humidity or frequent rain.

3. Retract and Secure When Storms Are Approaching

One of the simplest yet most effective things you can do is retract your blinds before a storm hits.

Leaving them down during high winds or heavy rain can:

• Cause the fabric to flap and tear
• Bend or break guide tracks
• Dislodge brackets or mounting hardware

Retract your blinds fully, and if they’re motorised, make sure they’re securely fastened once up. For manual systems, use straps or fasteners to ensure nothing comes loose in the wind.

4. Lubricate Tracks and Moving Parts

Over time, salt, dirt and moisture can affect the smooth operation of your outdoor blind system — especially in coastal areas.

Apply a silicone-based lubricant (never oil-based) to the moving parts:

• Side tracks
• Zips (if applicable)
• Tension mechanisms or crank handles

Regular lubrication helps prevent sticking, grinding, or jamming, especially after extended periods of rain or high humidity.

5. Don’t Forget the Bottom Seal

The bottom of your blind plays a critical role in keeping wind, rain, and pests out. During storm season, it can take a beating.

Check that:

• The bottom seal is intact and free of tears
• There’s no warping or signs of wear where the blind meets the ground
• Drainage around the base is clear (to prevent water pooling or rising up into the fabric)

If you notice damage or excessive wear, it may be time for a replacement or professional servicing.

6. Consider Motorisation for Easier Storm Management

If you find yourself manually rolling up blinds in a panic each time a storm rolls in, it may be time to explore motorisation.

Motorised outdoor blinds:

• Can be retracted quickly with a button press
• Can be integrated into weather sensors or smart home systems
• Reduce the chance of human error or forgetting to secure them in time

Security Plus offers motorisation options that pair seamlessly with eZip blinds and other outdoor solutions — giving you peace of mind, even when you’re away from home.

7. Schedule Professional Servicing When Needed

If you’re not confident in checking brackets or servicing the motor yourself, there’s no harm in calling in the pros.

A professional can:

• Assess structural integrity
• Repair small damages before they worsen
• Adjust alignment or recalibrate motors
• Recommend replacements if parts have aged beyond repair

At Security Plus, our team can offer tailored servicing and advice for your specific blinds — especially important before storm season begins in earnest.

Peace of Mind Starts With Preparation

With regular care and a bit of storm-season prep, your outdoor blinds will continue to protect and enhance your home, no matter what the weather throws at them. Taking a few preventative steps today can help avoid damage tomorrow.

Whether you’ve just installed new blinds or had them for years, it’s never too late to get them storm-season ready.

Need help keeping your blinds storm-safe?

📞 Give us a call on 1300 883 933
💬 Or book your free consultation today to explore our custom outdoor blind solutions tailored for Australian conditions.