Exterior wood shutters take a lot of abuse from the elements. Over time this can cause the wood in shutters to rot or the joints in the shutter frame to come apart. Here’s how to repair shutters on your home.

How to repair a rotten shutter:

  • Remove all the rotten wood from the damaged area of the shutter using a chisel or putty knife.
  • Mix up a small amount of two-part auto body filler, available at auto supply stores, using the recommended proportions.
  • Use a putty knife to fill the hole in the shutter with automotive body.
  • Smooth the filler flush with the surface of the shutter, and allow it to set.
  • Smooth the surface with sandpaper.
  • Prime the spot with exterior primer, allow to dry, then paint the shutter with a high quality exterior paint.

How to repair a shutter joint:

  • Hold or clamp the shutter frame together, making sure the louver slats are properly positioned in the slots.
  • Drill a pilot hole through the shutter stile and into the shutter rail.
  • Use a drill to insert a corrosion resistant screw in the hole to secure the frame together.
  • Prime and paint the screw head to keep water out and hide the repair.

Watch the video above to find out more.

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Danny Lipford

Founder

Danny Lipford is a home improvement expert and television personality who started his remodeling business, Lipford Construction, at the age of 21 in Mobile, Alabama. He gained national recognition as the host of the nationally syndicated television show, Today's Homeowner with Danny Lipford, which started as a small cable show in Mobile. Danny's expertise in home improvement has also led him to be a contributor to popular magazines and websites and the go-to source for advice on everything related to the home. He has made over 200 national television appearances and served as the home improvement expert for CBS's The Early Show and The Weather Channel for over a decade. Danny is also the founder of 3 Echoes Content Studio, TodaysHomeowner.com, and Checking In With Chelsea, a décor and lifestyle blog.

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