Vinyl shutters not only add charm to your house, they can also add value. Although the vinyl shutters require little care or upkeep, they do need to be painted. Instead of buying new shutters, or hiring someone else to do the job for you, it is a job that the average homeowner can do. Proper cleaning before you paint is the key to having a professional looking job when finished. Does this Spark an idea?
Instructions
1. Examine the shutters to see how or if they are removable. Some vinyl shutters lift out of position, while others are held in place by screws. If yours are held by screws, remove the screws and place them in a container so they don't get lost.
2. Wash the shutters with a detergent that contains bleach or an acid-based mildew killer to remove the dust, dirt, insects and other debris. Use a power washer, a garden hose with a sprayer nozzle, or a bucket of TSP or detergent mixed with water and a brush. Wash both sides of the shutter.
3. Rinse the shutters to remove soap residue.
4. Dry the vinyl shutters thoroughly with a lint-free towel. This helps remove any residue on the shutters.
5. Inspect the vinyl shutters for any damage, such as holes or cracks and fix them with glue or caulk. Choose repair products made from paint-able formulations. Read and follow label directions. Sand the repaired areas level with 120-grit sandpaper
6. Lay the shutters down in a shady area with newspapers underneath.
7. Apply a thin coat of paint with a brush or use a paint sprayer. Do the back of the shutter first, beginning with the area in between the slats. Then paint all other areas that will be unreachable once you turn the shutter over for the other side.
8. Allow the paint to dry thoroughly. If a second coat is needed, lightly sand the previous coat of paint with 120-grit sandpaper and then apply a thinner coat of paint. Repeat this step until you have the desired look.
9. Allow to dry thoroughly, and then turn the shutter over.
10. Repeat steps 8 and 9 for the top side of the shutter. Allow the shutter to dry completely before reinstalling onto the house.
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