How to Refresh or Paint Shutters
Shutters frame windows and add architectural interest. Faded, mismatched, or missing shutters are instantly noticeable. Fresh paint or strategic replacement creates polished curb appeal.
Quick Summary
Time needed
3-5 hours
Cost
Paint: $100 | Replace: $200-$400
Difficulty
Medium
Assess: Paint or Replace?
Critical Check: Are your shutters the right size? Shutters should be HALF the width of the window. Many builder-grade shutters are too narrow and look fake. If undersized, replace them.
Paint Existing Shutters If:
- • Structurally sound, no warping or cracks
- • Correct size (half window width)
- • Made of wood or paintable vinyl
- • Properly mounted and aligned
Replace Shutters If:
- • Undersized or improperly proportioned
- • Warped, cracked, or faded vinyl that won't paint
- • Mismatched styles across windows
- • Cheap hollow vinyl construction
How to Paint Shutters Professionally
1. Remove Shutters
Unscrew from house and paint off-wall for best results. Painting in place looks amateur and risks drips on siding.
2. Clean and Prep
Wash with TSP solution to remove dirt and oxidation. Sand lightly to rough up surface. Wipe clean with tack cloth.
3. Prime (If Changing Colors)
Use bonding primer for vinyl shutters. Wood shutters need exterior oil-based or latex primer.
4. Spray or Brush Paint
Spray paint (HVLP sprayer) gives smoothest finish. Brushing works but shows texture. Use quality exterior paint in satin or semi-gloss. Two thin coats beat one thick coat.
5. Reinstall Properly
Use shutter mounting hardware, not screws directly into siding. Ensure shutters are level and evenly spaced from windows.
Popular Shutter Color Combinations
White House → Black Shutters
Classic, high-contrast, always stylish. The most popular combination.
Gray House → Navy Blue Shutters
Modern farmhouse favorite. Sophisticated without being stark.
Beige/Tan House → Forest Green Shutters
Traditional colonial look. Timeless and elegant.
Brick House → Black or Charcoal Shutters
Complements red brick without competing. Clean and understated.
Pro Tip: Test paint colors on a small section first. Shutters are vertical and often in shade - colors look different than on horizontal paint chips.
Buying Replacement Shutters
Sizing Guidelines
- •Width: Each shutter should be HALF the window width
- •Height: Match window height (within 1-2 inches)
- •Style: Louvered (most common), raised panel, or board-and-batten
- •Material: Vinyl (low maintenance), wood (traditional), composite (best of both)
Budget: Quality vinyl shutters $50-80 per pair. Wood or composite $100-150 per pair. Typical house needs 6-8 pairs.
Frequently Asked Questions
Should I paint or replace my shutters?
Paint if shutters are structurally sound and properly sized for windows. Replace if they're warped, cracked, undersized (should be half the window width), or cheap vinyl that won't hold paint. Quality shutters cost $50-150 per pair but transform your facade instantly.
What color should I paint my shutters?
Shutters should contrast with siding for definition. Popular combinations: white house with black shutters, gray house with navy shutters, beige house with forest green shutters. Avoid matching shutter color exactly to siding - they'll disappear visually.
Ready for the Next Step?
Complete your exterior refresh by cleaning windows for maximum impact.