How to Install Shutters

Installing shutters is an easy home improvement project that will change the look of your home entirely. Plus, it only involves one power tool! We'll show you how it's done with our easy-to-follow steps. 

By Hannah Bruneman

Shutters can seriously transform a home's appearance and add major curb appeal in just a few hours. Plus, you can easily swap them for a different design, size, or color as your preferences change. The best part? Installation is simple. Plastic shutters come with inexpensive fasteners that tap right into your home's exterior; there's only one power tool involved, too. Learn how to install shutters on your home for a quick weekend makeover with our step-by-step tutorial.

Before installing, learn how to paint your shutters.

  • Working time 2 hrs
  • Start to finish 2 hrs
  • Difficulty Easy
  • Involves Carpentry Skills
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What you need

Tools
Materials
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How to do it

Step 1

Make Measurements

First, have a partner hold a shutter up to the window. Step back so you can visualize the spacing as you desire. Once satisfied, mark with a pencil where the shutter will go, including the height and distance from window trim.

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Step 2

Drill Pilot Holes

Next, drill pilot holes in both the shutters and your home's exterior. Use the 1/4-inch drill bit to predrill holes along each shutter's edges. There should be three holes placed evenly along each vertical edge. 

Hold the shutter up to the window where you marked its desired placement. Mark where the holes are using a pencil. Remove the shutter and drill into the wall using the same drill bit. The holes should be deep enough to accommodate the shutter fasteners, which are typically just under 3 inches long. 

Watch

How to Use a Drill

Get the lowdown on how to use this basic carpentry tool. 

Step 3

Secure Shutter

Hold the shutter in place so all the pilot holes are aligned. Push the first shutter fastener into the hole and use a hammer to gently tap into place. The shutter should be snug against the home exterior, but be careful not to hammer the fastener too tight or the shutter could warp.

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