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Overview:
This project will show you how to install exterior shutters. Replacing or installing exterior shutters gives your house an instant face-lift. Adding shutters to your home is an easy way to beautify the exterior.
Materials:
Shutters (be sure to consider any small or unusually-sized windows), screws or nails (for attaching wood shutters), clips and a manufacturer's template (for attaching vinyl shutters), anchors (for attaching to brick, stone or masonry)
Tools You'll Need:
power-lite cordless drill, 6-in-1 interchangeable screwdriver, 7oz. or 16oz. hammer, 10ft. or 25ft. tape measure, 4-in-1 level
Before You Begin:
The instructions that come with your shutters will list the manufacturer's recommendations for proper installation. Be sure to read them thoroughly before you begin your project. Installation techniques will vary, depending on the type of shutter and the material into which you are installing it. The instructions below offer basic directions for a variety of scenarios. Use Steps One through Three for Brick, Stone and Masonry. Continue to Step Four for Vinyl, Wood, Composition or Metal Siding.
Barbara's Tips:
When drilling in brick, stone or masonry, try to drill in a mortar joint. It is much easier than drilling into the brick or stone itself. And remember: always wear your safety glasses when operating a drill.
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Step 1: For Brick, Stone and Masonry
Hold the shutter in place beside the window. Mark the shutter with the locations for the top and bottom screws. You should place the screws in the center of the side rails and 3 to 5 inches from the top and bottom of the shutter. If the shutter is very tall, additional screws may be necessary. Align the screw locations with a mortar joint, which is easier to drill into than brick or stone.
Step 2: Prep for Attachment
Take the shutter down and drill a 3/16" diameter hole through its face in each of the marked screw locations. Reposition the shutter and use your drill to make shallow holes to mark the anchor holes. Drill only enough to be able to find the holes after removing the shutter. Remove the shutter, drill and the masonry anchors using your hammer or the recommendations from the shutter manufacturer.
Step 3: Better than an Afternoon in the Gym
Reposition the shutter (feel those biceps getting stronger yet?) and secure it with screws in the masonry anchors. Tighten screws so that head is flush with the surface of the shutter. If you have screw caps that match the color of the shutters, install them now for a finishing touch. Repeat for all remaining shutters.
Step 4: For Vinyl, Wood, Composition or Metal Siding
Just a tiny difference. Follow Steps One through Three for attaching shutters to Brick, Stone or Masonry, but when you position the screw holes on the shutter, be sure to locate them near the bottom edges of the lapped siding to provide more material for the screw to grip.
Step 5: Using Clips to Attach the Shutters
Shutters that attach with a clip attachment system will have specific directions from the manufacturer. A template will be provided to show proper placement of the clips in relation to the top, bottom and sides of the shutter. Hold the template securely in place at the top of the shutter and mark the recommended placement for the screws. Use the template to drill pilot holes for anchors or screws. Attach the clips to the walls, being careful not to over-tighten they need to be able to move the full length of the slot in which they are attached. After all the clips are installed, snap the shutter in place, making sure it attaches to all the clips.
Step 6: Stay Level
Use your level to check the shutter alignment. If the shutters are not aligned, loosen all the screws, re-level the shutters, and tighten all screws. You can also use your tape measure to check the level by measuring from the side of the window on top and bottom. If the dimensions are the same, your shutters are level. Step to the curb and admire your house's new look. It's a dramatic change, and you did it yourself!
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