Chloe Zhang
Painting plastic shutters can be a great way to improve the curb appeal of your house without spending a fortune on remodelling or a major home improvement project. If your shutters are old and faded, bringing them back to their original colour can make your house look newer and more valuable. You can also repaint them in a new colour to revitalise your home's facade. In this guide, we will cover the steps you need to take to paint your plastic shutters, as well as the types of paint and primer that are suitable for this task.
How to paint plastic shutters
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Reason | To improve the aesthetic appeal of your home |
| Paint | Use plastic-safe paint, such as Krylon Fusion, or 100% acrylic paint |
| Primer | Use a plastic primer, such as Rustoleum |
| Paintbrush | Use a flat brush to paint between shutter slats |
| Spray paint | Use spray paint for plastic |
| Paint roller | Paint rollers are great for wide, flat surfaces |
| Precautions | Work in thin, even layers, and follow the recoat times printed on your can of spray paint |
| Pre-painting steps | Clean the shutters with a plastic-safe household cleaner, a mild degreaser, or lacquer thinner, and let them dry |
| Post-painting steps | If you removed the shutters, reinstall them after the paint has fully dried and cured |
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What You'll Learn
Preparing plastic shutters for painting
If your plastic shutters are in good condition, the next step is to remove them from the house. This is generally easier and less stressful than trying to paint around the shutters. For shutters secured with metal mounting clips, simply lift them off. For those installed with shutter loks, pull the shutter about an inch away from the wall and use a hacksaw to cut through the shutter loks and plastic mounting nails. Once removed, fill any remaining holes with silicone caulking.
Before painting, the shutters should be thoroughly cleaned to remove any dirt, mildew, or injection mould release agents. A plastic-safe household cleaner or a mild degreaser can be used for this step. If the shutters are newer and unpainted, a wipe-down with lacquer thinner can be effective. Once clean, allow the shutters to dry completely.
To ensure the paint adheres well to the plastic, it is recommended to apply a layer of primer before painting. Not all primers are suitable for plastic, so be cautious of metal-etching primers intended for cars and appliances as these can damage the plastic. Instead, opt for a plastic primer, such as Krylon Fusion or Rustoleum, which are designed to bond with plastic. Apply the primer with a spray or a brush, ensuring thin, even layers, and follow the recoat times specified on the product.
With these preparation steps completed, your plastic shutters are now ready for painting. Remember to use a paint that is suitable for plastic, and consider applying a clear coat to protect against UV exposure and prevent fading.
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Choosing the right paint
Type of Paint
Not all types of paint are suitable for plastic surfaces. It is crucial to select a paint that is specifically designed for plastic surfaces. Avoid oil-based paints, as they will not bond well with plastic and are likely to peel or crack over time. Latex paints are a popular choice for vinyl shutters, but they require a primer to be applied first, as latex paint does not adhere well to bare plastic.
Spray Paint vs. Brush Paint
You can choose between spray paint and brush paint for your plastic shutters. Spray paint, such as Krylon Fusion, that is formulated to bond with plastic, is a popular choice as it can provide a clean, professional finish. However, if you opt for spray paint, be mindful of the thickness of your application. Work in thin, even layers, and follow the recoat times specified on the can. Additionally, ensure proper ventilation when using spray paint, and consider wearing a respirator for safety. On the other hand, brush paint can be more tedious, but it allows for greater control and precision.
UV Protection
If your shutters are exposed to direct sunlight, consider selecting a paint with UV protection or applying a clear coat over your paint to prevent fading. This will help maintain the colour and finish of your shutters over time.
Primer
Using a primer specifically designed for plastic surfaces is highly recommended. It will help the paint adhere better and create a more durable finish. Make sure to choose a primer suitable for exterior use and avoid metal-etching primers meant for cars and appliances, as these can damage the plastic.
Colour
Finally, consider the colour you want for your shutters. You can choose to return them to their original colour or opt for a custom colour to revitalise the look of your home. Remember that the colour you select may impact the number of coats required and the overall sun exposure the shutters receive.
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Using a paint roller or brush
Painting plastic shutters can be done using a paint roller or brush. It is recommended to remove the shutters before painting, but they can also be painted in place. If you choose to remove them, set up a workstation in a well-ventilated area, such as a garage or outdoors. Protect the area with drop cloths, plastic sheets, or painter's tape. If you choose to paint the shutters in place, use painter's tape around the edges to avoid getting paint on the walls or windows. Wear appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE), including eye protection, gloves, and closed-toe shoes.
Before painting, clean the shutters with soap, water, and a soft-bristle brush to ensure the paint will adhere properly. If the shutters have a glossy or smooth surface, lightly sand them with fine-grit sandpaper to help the primer adhere better. Wipe away any dust after sanding. Apply a plastic-safe primer formulated for plastic surfaces with a paintbrush or roller, ensuring even coverage. Follow the manufacturer's instructions for drying time, which is typically between one to four hours.
Once the primer is dry, dip your paintbrush or roller into the paint, ensuring it is evenly coated but not overly saturated. Apply the paint in long, even strokes, working vertically and following the direction of the wood grain if applicable. Work swiftly but precisely to avoid visible brush or roller marks as the paint dries. Aim for consistent coverage on all surfaces, including corners, edges, and detailed or recessed sections.
Let the first coat of paint dry according to the manufacturer's recommended drying time. Then, inspect the shutters for imperfections, missed spots, or areas requiring touch-ups. Depending on the coverage, you may need to apply a second or third coat. If there are imperfections after the first coat, lightly sand them and wipe away the dust before applying additional coats.
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Spray painting plastic shutters
Painting your plastic shutters can be a great way to improve the aesthetic appeal of your home. It can give your house a new look and make it appear more valuable. If you are planning to spray paint your plastic shutters, here is a step-by-step guide to help you through the process:
Step 1: Prepare the Shutters
Before starting the painting process, it is important to prepare the shutters. If your shutters are already painted, you might want to consider removing the old shutters and giving them a fresh start. If the shutters are attached with metal mounting clips, simply unhook them. For shutters installed with shutter locks, use a hacksaw to cut through the plastic mounting nails and then remove the remaining pieces with pliers. Fill the holes with silicone caulking.
Step 2: Clean the Shutters
Once you have the shutters ready, the next step is to clean them thoroughly. Use a plastic-safe household cleaner to scrub away any dirt, mildew, or grime from the plastic surface. If the shutters are new and unpainted, you can use a lacquer thinner to wipe down the surface and ensure it is completely clean.
Step 3: Prime the Shutters
Since latex paint does not bond well with bare plastic, it is recommended to apply a layer of primer first. Choose a primer that is specifically designed for plastic surfaces and avoid metal-etching primers meant for cars or appliances as they can damage the plastic. You can find suitable primers at most home improvement stores.
Step 4: Choose the Right Paint
Select a paint that is suitable for exterior use and is rated for use on plastic surfaces. Spray paints are a good option, but be sure to choose a formula specifically designed to bond with plastic, such as Krylon Fusion. Avoid generic enamel spray paints as they may not adhere properly to the plastic surface.
Step 5: Spray Paint the Shutters
When spray painting the shutters, work in thin, even layers, and follow the recoat times specified on the spray paint can. Do not try to cover the entire shutter in one go. Remember to wear a respirator and ensure the area is well-ventilated, as the solvents in commercial spray paints can be toxic.
Step 6: Reinstall the Shutters
After the paint has fully dried and cured, it is time to reinstall the shutters. If your shutters were originally attached with metal mounting clips, simply hook them back into place. For shutters with plastic mounting nails, you may need to drill new holes and use shutter lok fasteners to secure them to the wall.
By following these steps, you can successfully spray paint your plastic shutters and give them a new lease of life!
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Reinstalling painted shutters
Prepare the Shutters and Work Area:
Before beginning the reinstallation process, ensure your painted shutters are completely dry and cured. This is essential to achieve a long-lasting finish. Prepare your workspace by laying down drop cloths or plastic sheeting to catch any debris or paint drips. Gather all the necessary tools, including a drill, drill bits, screws, nails, and any other specific hardware required for your shutters.
Mark the Shutters:
It is important to mark the shutters and their original positions to ensure they are reinstalled correctly. Label each shutter and its corresponding location to avoid confusion. This will make it easier to match each shutter to its original place, especially if you have multiple shutters to reinstall.
Reinstall the Shutters:
If your shutters were originally installed with metal mounting clips, simply hook the shutters back onto the clips and slide them into place. This is a quick and easy process. For shutters with plastic mounting nails, you will need to drill new mounting holes. Insert the shutter lok fasteners through the holes in the shutter and gently tap them with a hammer to secure them in place. Ensure the holes are the appropriate size for a snug fit.
Secure the Shutters:
Once the shutters are in place, check that they are secure and do not wiggle or move. If the original screws or nails are in good condition and fit snugly, you can reuse them. However, if the holes have become enlarged, you may need to use larger screws or exterior wood filler to ensure a tight fit. This will help to stabilise the shutters and prevent any unwanted movement.
Final Touch-ups:
After the shutters are securely in place, take a step back and inspect your work. Look for any gaps or imperfections that need to be addressed. If there are any remaining holes or damage from the previous installation, fill them with exterior wood filler or glue and paint them to match the shutter colour. This will help to create a seamless and professional finish.
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Frequently asked questions
Yes, plastic shutters can be painted. However, you must be careful to use plastic-safe paints.
First, check the condition of your shutters, especially if they are old and exposed to sunlight. Clean the shutters with a plastic-safe household cleaner or lacquer thinner, and then let them dry. Next, apply a layer of primer. Finally, paint the shutters with a brush or spray.
You can use regular spray paint, but be sure to use a formula that is made to bond with plastic, such as Krylon Fusion. You can also use 100% acrylic paint. Avoid oil-based paints as they will not bond well with the plastic.
It is recommended to remove the shutters before painting, as it will be less stressful and take less work than trying to work around the shutter in place. If your shutters are secured with metal mounting clips, simply lift them off. For shutters installed with shutter loks, cut through the plastic mounting nails with a hacksaw, then fill the holes with silicone caulking.
