How to Paint Open Shutters

Use the proper tools to remove the hardware holding the shutters to the house. Secure each shutter with one hand while removing the screws to avoid the shutter falling to the ground after the hardware is removed.

Using a paint scraper, run the edge over the shutters to remove old, chipped paint.

Start with a coarse grit sandpaper and sand both shutters. Follow with a fine grit sandpaper for a smoother finish.

Using a mild soap and a soft cloth, clean the shutters thoroughly, removing any residue from the previous sanding.

Painting open shutters is best done with a spray gun or spray paint. This ensures even coats and removes the risk of brush strokes showing up in the paint. Vinyl shutters require vinyl paint which can be purchased at an automotive retail store. Metal or wood shutters can be painted using a rust paint. Ensure the paint is labeled "Exterior" before purchasing.

Find a flat surface large enough for both of the shutters to lie flat. Lay out a drop cloth and set the shutters on top. It is best to do this outside in a shady area or inside in a well ventilated room, like a garage.

Use a metal primer for metal shutters and a vinyl primer or undercoat for vinyl shutters. If the shutters are wood, any regular wood primer will do. Apply thin even coats to the surface of the shutters, allowing the paint to dry in between.

Read the manufacturer's instructions on the paint for the proper distance to hold the can away from the shutters. Shake the can for at least 3 minutes to mix the paint.

Standing the suggested distance away from the shutters, apply thin even coats of paint, ensuring the paint can is continually moving in a back and forth motion. Applying coats that are too thick will result in dripping paint or a pitted look, referred to as "the orange peel effect." Because they are open shutters, you only need to paint the sides that will be seen. Allow the paint to dry thoroughly between coats. More than two coats may be needed.

Ensure that the shutters are completely dry. Asses the condition of the hardware and fasteners. Sometimes when hardware is removed and re-inserted it will no longer secure the shutters properly. This is especially true for anchors. Purchasing new hardware may be required.