8 Common Shutter Installation Mistakes and How to Avoid Them

 

It’s been reported that the average American spends roughly $15,000 per home repair project.

Common exterior projects include custom shutters. They add to your home’s aesthetic and work wonderfully with interior custom shade solutions. However, you need to adhere to specific guidelines throughout the shutter installation process to ensure proper sizing, shape, and room for expansion.

This helpful guide walks you through common shutter installation mistakes for a seamless shutter installation service. Let’s begin!

1. Incorrect Sizing

Even if your Houston premium shutters are fixed, they still need to give the illusion of opening and closing. This makes shutter size a key factor that’s often overlooked.

When choosing a shutter size, you should never replicate the window size exactly. Instead, allow 1/4″ on each side so the shutters properly fit a window opening if “closed”.

If you choose shutters in Houston that are too narrow, it will be noticeable and they’ll look mismatched against the house. For example, if you have a 36″ window, you need two shutters that are each 18″ wide.

2. Incorrect Shapes

When adding different types of shutters to your windows, always use a shape that matches your windows. For example, if you have arched windows, don’t use rectangular shutters.

Use round-top shutters, ensuring the tops of each shutter arch away from your windows when open. This way, when closed, they match the shape.

If you’re looking to elevate your brand-new shutters, consider custom shades, such as roller shades. These window coverings are functional and perfectly offset new shutters.

3. Failure to Allow for Expansion

You may find that a designer creates a false window using two shutters and a trim that resembles a picture frame. If this is the case, always leave space between your shutters and the frame.

A general rule of thumb is 1/4″ on both sides and 388″ on the top and bottom. This allows for expansion.

4. Mismatched Shutter Rails

Some designers opt to center a horizontal rail in the window. While this particular technique comes down to preference, you still need to measure the shutters.

The mid-rail should drop just a hair below the meeting rail for that particular window. Homeowners may raise their windows for ventilation, keeping the shutters closed. When you position the mid-rail a fraction of the way below the meeting rail, you can still lock the shutters closed by latching the window or slide bolt.

5. Exterior Shutters are Misaligned

Before you secure the shutters completely, always close them, checking that they sit evenly height-wise. If you notice the window is askew, you’ll have uneven shutters. You can shim the shutters to offset this issue, but be sure to do so before you mount the pintles on the window’s trim board.

You may also notice the windows are misaligned. Always double-check that the window sash aligns with the shutter’s center rail.

More often than not, shutters are hung upside down. This is especially true of louvered shutters.

When you open these shutters, look and see if the louvers slop down toward the wall of the house. This way, when they’re closed, they’ll slope away from the window, pushing rainwater outward.

6. Use of Improper Hardware on Exterior Shutters

As you choose hardware, consider the style of the shutters and the home’s cladding. Brick exterior homes require shutter hardware that firmly attaches to the brickmold.

This allows the shutters to completely close. Pay close attention to how the window sits. Most windows are recessed, but certain modern vinyl windows may protrude beyond the siding.

7. Acorn-Style Holdbacks

Always consider the orientation of your hardware, especially acorn-stye holdbacks. They’re created to sit behind custom home shutters, out of sight.

They lock your shutters in place, so the best Houston Shutter Company will install them on tall shutters to avoid rattling noises. When installing rattail or s-style holdbacks, ensure they’re in front of your shutters and never fasten them too tightly, as this may alter the finish of your custom shutters.

8. Improper Pintle Placement and Fasteners

Shutters attach to a house at the pintle. They’re usually installed facing upwards, so the shutters are easily set in place. The downside is that the shutters may blow off easier during a storm.

Instead, it’s preferable to install one of the pintle pins upside down, locking it in place. This protects the shutters during a storm.

Other Factors to Consider

When repainting shutters, always clean the surface to ensure the primer and paint adheres properly. Don’t skip the primer, as this may also lead to poor paint adhesion.

It’s best to use a paint that’s 100% latex, or one specifically formulated to attach to vinyl and plastic. Follow the instructions on the paint manufacturer’s website for the best results and safe handling.

Don’t forget to install shutters on the back of your home, as well. Although the front of your house is where you’ll receive the bulk of your curb appeal, your side and back yards are where you spend the majority of your time, so be sure to include custom shutters for the ideal finishing touch.

Avoid These Common Shutter Installation Mistakes

The best window professionals offer a myriad of custom shade solutions, but be mindful to avoid these common shutter installation mistakes when installing exterior shutters. Misaligned shutters, for example, detract from the appearance of your home, so always work with a trusted professional on shutter installation.

If you’re looking for Houston window experts, Shade Set Shutters features unparalleled expertise. We offer custom shutters, shades, and blinds. Reach out to us today!