The Art Of Painting Window Shutters: A Step-By-Step Guide

Painting your window shutters is a great way to improve the curb appeal of your home without breaking the bank. Whether your shutters are old and faded, or you simply want to give your home a new look, a fresh coat of paint can work wonders. In this guide, we will take you through the process of painting your window shutters, including the necessary tools and safety precautions to ensure a successful project. So, whether you're a seasoned DIYer or a beginner, read on to learn how to paint your window shutters like a pro!

Choosing a colour

Firstly, consider the main colour of your home. Lighter colours will make a smaller house look larger, while darker colours will bring attention to certain features. Take a walk around your neighbourhood and look out for houses that are a similar style to yours. What colours catch your eye? Choose a colour that complements the houses around you while also reflecting your own personal taste. Remember, colours intensify and look brighter in the sun, so always go a few shades lighter than you initially planned.

When it comes to specific colours, black and white shutters are the most popular and work on any home. Black shutters add elegance, while white shutters create a sense of balanced simplicity. For a brick house, dark colours or earth tones that complement the natural tones in the brick tend to work best. If you have a white house, black or dark colours like cobalt will make the shutters stand out. For a beige house, white or black shutters can work well, while a tan house often looks best with shutters in darker earth tones, like greens or browns.

If you want to make a bolder statement, colours like vivid reds, oranges, and blues can set your home apart. Dark blue shutters, for example, can give definition while maintaining a traditional look. Gray shutters are another option if you want a modern yet classic feel. For a natural-tone home exterior, deep greens are a popular choice, while navy blue, dark brown, and even purple can also make an impact.

Prepping the shutters

First, you need to decide whether to remove the shutters or paint them in place. Removing the shutters is the best option, as it makes the process easier and reduces the risk of accidents. However, if you decide to keep the shutters in place, use painter's tape to mask off the surrounding areas and protect them from paint splatters.

Next, prepare your work area by laying down drop cloths or tarps to catch any dust from sanding and paint drips. If you're working outdoors, choose a well-ventilated area and be mindful of any potential hazards, such as wasps or uneven ground.

Now, it's time to clean the shutters. Use a broom or a rag to remove cobwebs and dirt. For vinyl or plastic shutters, a simple scrub with detergent and water will do the trick. For wood shutters, you may need to use a power washer or a coarse scrubbing pad with soapy warm water to remove dirt and mildew. If there is peeling paint, use a paint scraper to remove it, then lightly sand the shutters with medium sandpaper.

If you're painting vinyl or plastic shutters, you can skip this next step. For wood shutters, use a chemical paint stripper or a paint scraper to remove any remaining old paint. Once the bulk of the old paint is removed, wipe down the surface with a damp rag so that the wood is completely bare. Allow the shutters to dry before proceeding.

The final step in prepping the shutters is priming. Priming is essential, especially for wood shutters, as it seals the original material, hides joints, and covers seams. Choose a primer suitable for the surface you're working on, and apply it with a paintbrush or a spray. Allow the primer to dry completely before moving on to the painting stage.

Removing old paint

If your shutters are made of wood, you have two main options for removing the old finish: sanding or using a chemical paint stripper. First, use a paint scraper to remove any flaking or chipping paint. This will help you get rid of the bulk of the old paint. Then, use a fine-grit sandpaper or a sanding sponge to lightly sand the surface and smooth it out. After sanding, wipe away the dust and residue from the shutters with a slightly damp rag or cloth.

Alternatively, you can use a chemical stripping agent, which is especially useful for removing paint from crevices and hard-to-reach areas. Apply the chemical stripper with a clean cloth, paintbrush, or spray it directly onto the wood. Let it sit for about 10 minutes, or as recommended by the manufacturer. Then, use a plastic paint scraper and/or a sponge to remove the old finish. Work in a well-ventilated area and wear rubber gloves to protect your hands when using chemical strippers.

For vinyl and plastic shutters, removing old paint is not necessary. These types of shutters only need to be cleaned with detergent and water. Sanding and scraping away paint are not required. You simply need to choose a paint that is specifically formulated to adhere to vinyl or plastic surfaces.

Additional Tips:

• When removing shutters, mark each shutter with its position on your house to make reinstallation easier.
• Clean the shutters thoroughly before painting to ensure the paint adheres well.
• Always wear protective gear, such as gloves and eye protection, when working with chemicals and power tools.

Priming the shutters

Before priming your shutters, it's important to prepare your workspace and the shutters themselves. Find a suitable work area, such as a garage, workshop, or outdoors, and lay down drop cloths or tarps to catch any paint drips. If you're painting exterior shutters, remove them by unscrewing the hardware and placing the screws somewhere safe. For interior shutters, simply give them a quick clean with a sponge or scrub brush, water, and mild detergent.

Exterior shutters, on the other hand, will likely need a more thorough cleaning. Use a power washer or a garden hose, along with soapy warm water and a coarse scrubbing pad, to scrub away any dirt, mildew, or peeling paint. If there is mildew, you can add a bit of bleach to the mix to help remove mildew stains. If the shutters are in good condition without any peeling paint, you can skip the primer and go straight to painting. However, if there is peeling paint, use a power washer to remove it, and then use a bonding primer, such as Mad Dog latex primer, and spray it onto the shutters.

Now, let's talk about priming the shutters. For wooden shutters, use an exterior primer and apply it with a paintbrush. Start at the top louver on one side, painting towards the middle, and then start from the opposite side, working back towards the middle, overlapping the wet edge of your first brush strokes. Continue this process until you've covered all the louvers, and then use a wider brush to prime the shutter frame. Let the primer dry completely before moving on to the next step.

For vinyl or plastic shutters, it's important to use a primer that is specifically designed for these surfaces. Apply the primer with a paintbrush, following a similar technique as for wooden shutters. Remember to apply thin and even coats of primer and allow sufficient drying time before moving on to the next step, which is painting!

Re-hanging the shutters

Once your shutters are fully painted and dried, it's time to re-hang them. Here is a step-by-step guide on how to do this:

• After the paint has fully dried, carefully pick up your painted shutters. It is recommended to have someone assist you with this process to prevent any accidents.
• Place the shutters back in their original positions, ensuring they are securely attached to the window.
• Reattach the shutters using the original hardware, such as metal mounting clips or plastic mounting nails.
• If your shutters were installed with plastic mounting nails, you may need to drill new mounting holes and insert shutter lok fasteners. Ensure the holes are the appropriate size for a snug fit.
• For shutters with plastic buttons, you may need to scrape them off, remove the inner plastic piece with a wrench, and replace them with paintable shutter lok fasteners.
• Once the shutters are securely reattached, step back and admire your handiwork! Your freshly painted shutters will give your home a new lease of life.

Remember to always follow safety procedures when working at heights and consider hiring a professional if you are uncomfortable with the process.

Frequently asked questions