How to Tell if It Is Time to Replace Your Shutters

Every homeowner should inspect their home’s exterior, including their shutters, at least once a year. Shutter replacement can be an expensive proposition. Even if they show signs of wear and tear, that doesn’t necessarily mean they need to be discarded. In many cases, a little shutter repair is all that’s required. If you keep your shutters in good shape by taking care of small repairs as the pop-up, they will last longer and you will save yourself the expense of replacement.

What if your shutters are beyond repair? How can you tell when it is time to replace your shutters? Look for these tell-tale signs that your shutters need to be replaced.

Damage In Several Places

One sign that your window shutters ought to be replaced is if they look old and tattered. Window shutters will last a long time if they’re treated right and maintained properly, but they will eventually reach the end of their lifecycle. When that time finally comes, it makes sense to replace them sooner rather than later. If the shutters are damaged in multiple areas or have several broken slats, it is time to replace them.

Movement

If your shutters rock and roll at the slightest movement of air, there is trouble brewing. This applies to both the indoor and outdoor varieties. Should one of your shutters detach itself from the wall during a strong wind, it can cause serious damage on its way down. Check that your shutters are still firmly attached to the wall every time you clean them.

Wrong Size

If you’ve just completed a refurb on your house, chances are your new windows aren’t quite the same size as your old ones. This is a great time to invest in some new shutters. With so many styles to choose from, the hardest question is what type is right for you?

Wood Shutters come in all shapes, sizes, and styles. They will give your home a beautiful, traditional look. However, wood shutters require maintenance. Be sure to properly prime and paint new wood shutters before hanging them.

Vinyl Shutters are a good option if you are on a budget. They are less expensive than wood and require less maintenance but will still give your home a beautiful, finished look. Be sure to inspect your vinyl shutters. They will fade over time and can be restored to their original beauty with a fresh coat of paint. However, cracks in vinyl shutters cannot be filled and require replacement.

Hardware is the other part of the equation. Hardware should be inspected and properly cleaned to remain in good working condition. A protective coating can help keep your shutter hardware working properly.

Follow these tips and you will be able to keep your shutters in good shape longer. When you’ve finally decided to put your tired, old window shutters out of their misery, don’t hesitate to reach out to us for your painting and carpentry needs. Our goal is to exceed your expectations. Our track record speaks for itself.

Our team has many shutter options they can help you choose from for replacement or new shutters to give your home a whole new look. Give us a call today.