How to Repair Wood Shutters

If you have wood shutters on your home, there’s no getting around the fact that they will begin to show damage over time. Constant exposure to sun, rain, wind, snow, and other weather elements will take its toll over time. However, there’s no need to replace them. Repairing wood shutters is project you can do yourself in one weekend. Below we’ll show you how to repair wood shutters and make them look, and operate, like new.

Your shutters may be simply for decorative purposes, or they may be operational. In other words, they may sit fixed beside the windows, or they may actually close shut to protect the widow itself.

Materials needed to repair wood shutters:

Screw gun or drill with screw bit
Wire brush
Wood putty
Wood glue
Clamp(s)
Putty knife
Electric sander
Sandpaper
TSP Cleaner
Paint or stain
Paintbrush or rag

How to repair wood shutters:

STEP 1 – Remove the shutters. Shutters can be removed easily from the exterior the home with a screw gun or electric drill with screw bit. Operating shutters are typically attached with a pin hinge which should simply lift out of place. Place the shutters on a flat surface.

STEP 2 – Inspect. Inspect each shutter for damage. You’ll be looking for evident signs of distress or damage. This includes dents, chips, cracks, rust, paint flakes, and so on.

STEP 3 – Scrub. Use a wire brush and scrub the shutters thoroughly. This will help remove loose paint, rust, debris, and so on. If the shutters are louvered, take care to get in between and underneath each louver. Wipe clean with a soft dry cloth.

STEP 4 – Clean. Clean the shutters with TSP Cleaner. This will remove all traces of dirt, mildew, mold, and other debris. This will help the new paint or stain adhere, and extend its life, when it is applied later on.

STEP 5 – Fill. Use wood putty to fill in chips or dents. Apply it liberally and smooth out with a putty knife.

STEP 6 – Repair. Wood glue can be used to secure split wood. Use a clamp to hold the wood together. Follow product directions for proper dry time.

STEP 7 – Sand. Remove the clamps and sand the entire surface until smooth. For your own protection, you should be wearing a ventilation mask and protective goggles during this process.

STEP 8 – Paint or sand. Give your shutters a fresh look with a new coat of paint or stain. Make sure you are using a product that is strictly for outdoor use. Apply a second coat when the first is dry and let it sit overnight.

STEP 9 – Replace damaged hardware. If there are any screws or hinges that are rusted or stripped, replace them with the necessary hardware.

STEP 10 – Rehang the shutters. Put the shutters back in place. Use a carpenter’s level, if necessary, to ensure they are level.

You can keep your shutters looking their best by pressure washing them twice a year. This will remove mold, mildew, dirt, insects, and other debris and maintain the look of your home.

More from Jennifer Wagner:

12 Decorative uses for shutters

Pros and cons of popular home siding materials

How to clean paint brushes and rollers

Source: Personal knowledge and experience