The Comprehensive Guide to Installing Vinyl Shutters

If you’re considering a home improvement project that can instantly enhance your home’s curb appeal, look no further than installing exterior vinyl shutters. Not only do they add a pop of color and visual interest while being affordable, but they’re also light-weight and relatively simple to install. Whether you’re just starting your shutter exploration or you are holding a shutter in your hands right now, this guide will walk you through how to install exterior vinyl shutters.

Vinyl shutters are a popular choice for homeowners and tradespeople alike due to their durability, affordability, and low maintenance. They can withstand harsh weather conditions and will never rot. As well, the color is embedded directly into the material itself, so they don’t require regular painting or staining like wood shutters. Plus, they’re available in a variety of styles and colors to match any home’s exterior.

Before you start, gather the necessary tools:

• Electric drill
• Drill bits (1/4 inch for shutter loks and 11/64th inch for screws)
• Hammer or Mallet
• Shutter loks or screws
• Pencil
• Safety goggles

Remember, safety first! Always use the correct tools and wear safety goggles to protect your eyes.

This guide is based on instructions from both a video tutorial which you can find here and a manufacturer’s PDF guide that can be found here. Below follows a consolidated step-by-step installation guide:

1. Choose the Right Surface: Vinyl shutters can be installed on a variety of surfaces including wood, aluminum, vinyl, stucco, hardboard, brick, or masonry. In general, shutter loks are ideal for masonry surfaces and metal screws are ideal for all other surfaces. That said, metal screws can be used on masonry surfaces as well, with the use of anchors (sold separately).
2. Mark the Desired Location: Place the shutter next to the window and mark the desired location against the wall and/or window. This will ensure that your shutters are evenly placed.
3. Pre-Drill Holes: To ensure proper alignment, mark and pre-drill holes into the shutter before attaching it to the wall. If you’re using shutter loks, you’ll need a 1/4 inch pilot hole. If you’re using metal screws, you’ll need an 11/64 inch pilot hole.
4. Determine the Number of Fasteners: The number of fasteners you’ll need depends on the size of the shutters. For shutter sizes up to 43 inches, use four fasteners per shutter. For shutter sizes 44 inches or greater, use six fasteners per shutter.
5. Attach the Shutter: Position the shutter in location against the wall and use the pre-drilled holes as a guide to drill through the shutter into the wall surface. If you’re using shutter loks, tap the shutter lok gently with a hammer to tighten. If you’re using screws, drive the screws by hand so as not to overdrive or overtighten. Be careful not to over tighten the fasteners to prevent warping.
6. Special Instructions for Board-n-Batten Shutters: If you’re installing board-n-batten shutters, the process is similar but pay attention to proper screw placement and hole size. Pre-drilled holes should be placed above or below the horizontal battens. Do not pre-drill holes directly into horizontal battens.

If you’re still unsure or need more assistance, don’t hesitate to reach out for assistance. We have a team of Product Specialists who are dedicated to answering your questions, helping you narrow down your choices, and providing pricing. Reach our team Monday through Friday from 8am CST to 6pm CST at 1-800-294-1098.

Installing vinyl shutters is a relatively simple project that can completely transform the look of your home. With the right tools and instructions, you can do it yourself and enjoy the satisfaction of enhancing your home’s curb appeal. Happy installing!