Refresh those shutters

By Tresa Erickson

Live in an older home with metal shutters that have seen better days? Want to replace the shutters but not sure you can find new ones in the same size? Before you go to all of the expense of having custom shutters made, why not remove the shutters and repaint them. You just might be able to reuse them.

Repainting metal shutters will take some work. Here are the supplies you will need:
• Screwdriver
• Fine-grit sandpaper
• Scrub brush and sponge
• Bucket of soapy water
• Garden hose
• Spray primer
• Spray paint or paint designed for metal in the color of your choice
• Paintbrushes

First, remove the shutters from your house. If you are lucky, the shutters will be mounted to the wall with anchor screws and all you will need to do this is a screwdriver.

Next, hand-sand the shutters with fine-grit sandpaper to remove all loose paint. Be careful not to scratch too hard, or you could damage the surface. When you are finishing sanding, wash down the shutters to remove all of the sanding residue and dirt. Spray down the shutters with a garden hose and let them dry.

Once the shutters are dry, you are ready to paint them. Start with a coat of spray primer. Read and follow the manufacturer’s directions and apply the paint six to eight inches away to prevent drips. Use horizontal as well as vertical strokes for even coverage. Let the shutters dry completely before applying the topcoat.

If spray-painting the shutters, follow the procedure above, being careful not to create drips. If using traditional paint, apply the paint in long, even strokes, again being careful not to create drips. Let the paint dry and apply a second coat if needed. You may also use a paint sprayer to apply the paint. If you go this route, read and follow the manufacturer’s directions for the equipment and wear the appropriate protection.

Give the shutters a few days to dry before putting them back on the house. Be careful not to scratch the paint as you install the shutters.

That’s all there is to it! In just a few simple steps, you can repaint your metal shutters and save yourself some money in replacement costs.