Painting wooden shutters: step-by-step guide and mistakes to avoid

Your wooden shutters have served well, and now it’s time for a change?

Not so fast!

Rather than breaking the bank, in this guide, I’ll explain everything you need to know to repaint your shutters like a pro...

...literally, I asked the best painters available on Yoojo to share their tips with me.

Here’s what they had to say:

What to know before getting started

When should you paint or repaint your wooden shutters?

Choosing the right time to paint or repaint your wooden shutters is key to ensuring the paint adheres properly and the finish lasts. 

Here are a few guidelines to help you decide.

Information	Description
Recommended frequency	Generally, it’s advised to repaint your wooden shutters every 5 to 7 years. This can vary depending on how exposed your shutters are to weather and UV rays.
Signs it’s time to repaint	Cracked, peeling, or faded paint. Presence of mould, fungi, or dampness. Wood that’s greyed or discoloured. Cracks or holes in the wood.
Ideal weather conditions for painting	Dry weather, without rain or high humidity, with temperatures between 50°F and 77°F. Avoid painting in direct sunlight or strong winds to prevent uneven or overly quick drying.

 

How to assess the condition of your wooden shutters?

Before beginning any work, it’s essential to inspect your shutters thoroughly to determine the steps needed for renovation:

Task	Description
Inspect the wood	Check for cracks, holes, or damaged areas. Look for signs of rot, mould, or insect infestation.
Repair needs	Fill cracks and holes with wood filler or appropriate sealant. Treat the wood with fungicides or insecticides if needed.
Check the hardware	Inspect hinges, brackets, and other metal parts for rust or functional issues.

Choosing the best paint for your wooden shutters: essentials

Selecting the right paint is crucial to ensure your exterior wooden shutters are both durable and visually appealing.

Types of paint for exterior wooden shutters

You have several options to choose from:

Type of paint	Why choose it?
Acrylic paint	Water-based, it dries quickly and emits minimal odour. Ideal for shutters exposed to varying weather conditions but often requires multiple coats for good coverage.
Glycero (alkyd) paint	Solvent-based, it offers excellent weather resistance and a smooth finish. However, it releases more volatile organic compounds (VOCs) and has a longer drying time.
Wood stain	Penetrates deeply into the wood, protecting it while showcasing its natural grain. Perfect for those who want to retain the authentic look of wood.
Varnish	Creates a protective layer on the wood, enhancing its durability while preserving its natural appearance.

What colour should you paint your shutters? Follow this guide:

The colour of your shutters greatly influences the look of your facade. Here are our recommendations and tips to help you choose:

Shutter colour	Style and atmosphere
Provence blue	Traditional, reminiscent of southern French homes
Olive green	Natural and calming, blends well with green surroundings
Ochre yellow	Warm and inviting, evoking Mediterranean houses
Brick red	Vibrant and warm, adds character
Chocolate brown	Traditional and understated, highlights natural materials
Off-white	Classic and bright, visually enlarges openings
Anthracite grey	Modern and elegant, for a contemporary style
Deep black	Timeless and chic, creates strong contrast with light walls

Traditional colours: Shades like green and blue are timeless classics that harmonise well with many facades.

Modern colours: Anthracite grey, black, or off-white bring a contemporary touch to your home.

Bright colours: For a house that stands out with warm tones, go bold with brick red or ochre yellow.

❌ 5 common mistakes to avoid when painting

Painting your shutters yourself instead of hiring a professional can be tempting, but avoid these common mistakes!

Mistake	Description
Mistake 1:  Neglecting surface preparation	Preparing the surface is a crucial step before painting your wooden shutters. Skipping this step can lead to poor paint adhesion, blisters, or premature peeling. Ensure you clean, sand, and dust your shutters properly to achieve a durable and attractive finish.
Mistake 2:  Using unsuitable paint	Choosing the wrong type of paint can jeopardize your shutters' protection against the elements! It’s vital to use paint specifically designed for exterior wooden shutters, offering resistance to UV rays, humidity, and temperature changes. Avoid interior paints or low-quality options that won't withstand outdoor conditions.
Mistake 3:  Applying paint too thickly	Applying thick coats of paint won’t save time; it can cause drips, uneven drying, and an irregular finish. Instead, apply several thin coats, allowing the recommended drying time between each layer, for optimal results.
Mistake 4:  Ignoring weather conditions	Painting in humid weather, extreme heat, or direct sunlight can negatively affect drying and paint adhesion. Ideal weather conditions include moderate temperatures, dry air, and low wind. This ensures even application and optimal drying of the paint.
Mistake 5:  Failing to protect non-painted areas	Not protecting areas like hinges, adjacent walls, or the floor can result in unwanted stains and extra cleaning work. Use masking tape and drop cloths to cover areas you don’t want painted, ensuring a neat and efficient job.

5 steps to paint your shutters like a pro

Follow these step-by-step instructions to ensure your renovation is a success!

Step 1: Removing the shutters

To make painting easier and achieve an even finish, remove your shutters as follows:

1/ Prepare the workspace: Choose a flat, clean, and well-ventilated area sheltered from the weather. Set up sawhorses to lay the shutters horizontally.

2/ Remove and disassemble the shutters: Take them off their hinges or pins. Use a screwdriver to detach hinges and other metal parts. Store screws and small pieces in a container to avoid losing them.

3/ Clean the fittings: If they are rusty, scrub them with a wire brush and apply a rust inhibitor.

Step 2: Stripping or sanding

Stripping and repainting wooden shutters

1. Stripping: If your shutters have multiple layers of peeling paint, chemical or thermal stripping is necessary to return to the bare wood. Use a suitable chemical stripper or a heat gun to remove the old paint.

2. Sanding: Once stripping is complete, sand the surface with coarse-grit sandpaper to remove any residues, followed by fine-grit sandpaper to smooth the wood.

Painting wooden shutters without stripping?

If the existing paint is still in good condition, a light sanding will suffice. Sand with fine-grit sandpaper to create a slightly rough surface, which improves the adhesion of the new paint. Don’t forget to carefully dust off the shutters afterward using a damp cloth or a soft brush.

Step 3: Applying the primer

Applying a primer is essential to ensure good paint adhesion and to protect the wood.

1. Choose the right primer: Opt for a primer specifically designed for exterior wood, compatible with your chosen paint (acrylic or oil-based).

2. Apply the primer:

• Start with the edges and corners using a brush, painting in the direction of the wood grain.

• Use a roller for flat surfaces, applying a thin and even coat.

Allow to dry: Follow the drying time specified by the manufacturer, typically 12 to 24 hours, before proceeding to painting!

Step 4: Finally painting the shutters

Painting wooden shutters: brush or roller?

• Brush: Ideal for details, edges, and hard-to-reach areas like louvres.

• Roller: Recommended for large flat surfaces, allowing quick and even application.

Use both tools during painting for the best results.

How many coats of paint for wooden shutters?

Apply at least two coats of paint for optimal protection and a durable, aesthetic finish.

• First coat: Ensures good coverage and acts as a base layer.

• Second coat: Enhances weather resistance and provides a lasting finish.

Follow the drying times between coats as indicated by the manufacturer.

Should you paint shutter hardware?

Shutter hardware (hinges, brackets) is exposed to rust. It’s recommended to paint them with a suitable anti-rust paint to prolong their lifespan and harmonize them with the shutter.

1. Clean the hardware: Remove rust using a wire brush.

2. Apply anti-rust paint: Use a special metal paint, applying two thin coats.

3. Allow to dry: Follow the drying time before reattaching the hardware to the shutters.

Step 5: Finishing touches – to varnish or not?

Applying varnish is not mandatory, but it provides additional protection against UV rays, moisture, and impacts.

A clear varnish can also enhance the colour of your shutters.

Applying varnish (optional):

1/ Choosing the varnish: Ensure it is compatible with your paint (acrylic or oil-based).

2/ Application:

• Use a brush or roller to apply a thin, even layer, always following the grain of the wood.

• Avoid drips by not overloading the brush.

3/ Reassembling the shutters:

• Reinstall the hardware once the paint (and varnish, if applied) is fully dry.

• Reattach the shutters to their hinges, ensuring all mechanisms work properly.

By following these steps, you’ll give your wooden shutters a fresh lease on life!

Conclusion: Painting your shutters yourself isn't hard...

... but it does take time!

Plus, it requires a fair investment in tools and materials.

If you’d rather not spend your weekend painting, you can use our service to find a painter who can repaint your shutters for you.

It’s not as expensive as you might think! 

Save your time and enjoy a professional finish!