Installing Decorative Shutters

Below is a list of materials and tools used for this project, as well as a summary of the basic steps as featured in this Don't Sweat It project.

Materials and tools:

shutters
screws (1 box)
cordless drill with battery and magnetic screw tip
drill bits
ladder
level

Steps:

1. Measure the height of the windows and purchase your decorative shutters. Vinyl shutters are usually attached with a clip system. We selected wooden shutters which can be attached directly to the siding.

3. Mark for the screw locations. Hold the shutter in place and mark for the top and bottom screws. Follow manufacturer’s instructions for placement of all necessary screws.

4. Before attaching the shutters, drill a 3/16-inch diameter hole through the face at each marked screw location.

5. Then mark the locations on the siding by starting them with a drill. Drill just deep enough to see the marks after removing the shutter.

6. Drill 1/8 inch diameter pilot holes in the siding at least 2-3/4 inches deep for each screw.

7. Secure the shutters with the screws (figure B). The screws are often provided by the manufacturer. Tighten the screws down until the screw head is flush with the surface of the shutter.