Alexei Volkov
Painting plastic shutters can be a great way to revitalise the facade of your home. It is a project that most homeowners can tackle themselves, but if you have a lot of windows or don't want to risk climbing a ladder, you can always hire a local house painter. Before painting, plastic shutters should be cleaned and primed. Any plastic-safe household cleaner can be used to scrub away any dirt or mildew. If the shutters are newer and unpainted, a wipe-down with lacquer thinner can help to clean the surface. Since latex paint won't bond well to bare plastic, it is important to use a primer first. When it comes to choosing a paint, spray paints are a great choice, as long as you use formulas made to bond with plastic, such as Krylon Fusion.
How to spray paint plastic shutters
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Cost | $13 for 2 cans of semi-gloss spray paint, $17 for a quart of semi-gloss paint, $150 for an airless sprayer, $30 for a new pair of shutters, $2500 for a vinyl shutter replacement |
| Paint | Krylon, Rustoleum, Sherwin Williams |
| Tools | Extension ladder, power drill, screwdriver, dish soap, bucket, water hose, paint sprayer, roller, flat brush, painter's tape, sponge |
| Preparation | Clean and prime the shutters, tape around the edges, lay down a primer if using a lighter shade |
| Technique | Spray following the grain of the vinyl, keep the can the correct distance away, apply multiple thin coats, wait at least 1 hour between coats |
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What You'll Learn
Preparing plastic shutters for spray painting
Clean the Shutters
First, you will need to thoroughly clean the shutters to remove any dirt, dust, mildew, or other debris. Use a plastic-safe household cleaner and a scrub brush to clean the shutters. If the shutters are newer and unpainted, you can use a lacquer thinner to wipe them down and ensure the surface is completely clean. This step is crucial, as it will help the paint adhere better to the surface and create a more durable finish.
Choose the Right Paint
Not all paints are suitable for plastic surfaces. It is essential to choose a paint that is specifically designed for use on plastic. Latex paints, for example, will not bond well to bare plastic and can peel or crack over time. Instead, opt for paints like Krylon Fusion or Rustoleum, which are formulated to bond with plastic. These paints are available in spray paint cans, making them convenient for this project.
Prime the Shutters
Since some paints may not adhere well to plastic, it is recommended to apply a layer of primer before painting. Choose a primer that is suitable for plastic surfaces, as not all primers are meant for this purpose. A light grey or white primer can be a good choice if you plan to paint the shutters with a lighter shade or a colour that contrasts with the original colour.
Prepare the Work Area
Place the shutters on a workhorse, table, or cardboard in a well-ventilated area. If you are painting the shutters while they are still attached to your house, carefully tape around the shutters with wide painter's tape to protect the surrounding areas. Make sure to have a drop cloth or newspaper underneath the work area to catch any paint drips or spills.
Remove Shutters (Optional)
Consider removing the shutters before painting, as it will give you more control over the painting process and help you achieve a cleaner finish. Use a screwdriver or power drill to carefully detach the shutters from the exterior of your home. Place the screws or plastic buttons in a small bag so they don't get lost.
By following these steps, you will be well on your way to successfully preparing your plastic shutters for spray painting. Remember to take your time, work in a well-ventilated area, and always refer to the paint manufacturer's instructions for the best results.
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Choosing the right paint for plastic shutters
Type of Paint
It is crucial to choose a paint that is specifically designed for plastic surfaces. Latex paints are a good option for vinyl shutters, as they can be brushed or sprayed on directly. However, if you are using latex paint on bare plastic, it is recommended to apply a layer of primer first, as latex may not adhere well to the plastic surface. Krylon and Rustoleum offer paints and primers that bond well to vinyl and other plastics. Additionally, spray paints designed for plastic, such as Krylon Fusion, can be a suitable option.
Surface Preparation
Before painting, plastic shutters should be thoroughly cleaned to remove any dirt, mildew, or grime. A plastic-safe household cleaner or lacquer thinner can be used for this step. If the shutters have never been painted before, a wipe-down with a lacquer thinner will help prepare the surface for painting. Make sure to tape around the shutters with painter's tape to protect the surrounding areas.
Colour and Coverage
When choosing a colour, consider whether you want to stick to a similar shade or go for a lighter or contrasting colour. If you opt for a lighter or contrasting colour, priming the shutters with a light grey or white base coat is recommended. Additionally, consider the coverage of the paint. Spray paints with good coverage will help you achieve the desired look with fewer coats, saving time and effort.
Application Method
You can choose between using a paint sprayer, cans of spray paint, or a brush to apply the paint. While a paint sprayer can provide perfect coverage quickly, it may be unnecessary for small projects, as cans of spray paint can also deliver satisfactory results. Brushing may be more tedious, but it gives you more control over the paint application and can help avoid unwanted paint on surrounding areas.
Environmental Factors
Consider the environmental conditions the shutters will be exposed to. Choose a paint that is rated for exterior use and can withstand weather changes. Plastic expands and contracts with temperature fluctuations, so a paint that can bond well and resist peeling or cracking is essential.
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How to spray paint plastic shutters without removing them
Painting your plastic shutters is a great way to revitalise your home's facade. You can give them a new lease of life by painting them a new colour or returning them to their original shade. If you don't want to remove your shutters, follow these steps to spray paint them:
First, prepare the area by laying down drop cloths, plastic sheets, or taping down newspapers to protect the surrounding area from paint splatters. Next, clean the shutters to remove any dirt, grime, or loose paint. If your shutters are vinyl, you may want to try a product like 'Wet and Forget' to remove any mould. Once your shutters are clean and dry, lightly sand them with medium sandpaper to create a surface for the paint to cling to.
If you are not using a 2-in-1 paint and primer, you will need to prime the shutters. Use a brush or roller for this step, and follow the manufacturer's instructions. Once the primer is dry, you can start spray painting. If you are using a spray paint that adheres to plastic, you may not need to prime the shutters first. However, if you are using a standard spray paint, a bonding primer will help the paint adhere to the plastic.
When spray painting, follow the manufacturer's instructions and take care to avoid getting paint on the surrounding area. Once the shutters are fully dry, you can add a layer of varnish or acrylic clear coat for extra protection against the elements. Oil-based paints are the most durable for exterior use, but water-based paints are easier to work with and less likely to crack or peel.
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How to spray paint plastic shutters after removing them
Painting your plastic shutters is a great way to revitalise the exterior of your home. 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 as subtle accents or bold highlights to change the look of your home.
If you are going to remove your shutters to paint them, the first step is to take them down. If your shutters are screwed into the wall, use a screwdriver to remove them. If they are attached with shutter buttons, you will need to use pliers to pull the shutter button posts out of the holes. Alternatively, you can cut them flush to the house with wire cutters. Before removing them, it is a good idea to mark or label each shutter with its position on your house, so that you can put them back in the correct place.
Once you have removed the shutters, lay them out on a drop cloth in a well-ventilated area. If you are painting close to other objects, use newspaper, plastic sheets, or painter's tape to protect the surrounding area from paint splatters.
Next, you will need to clean the shutters to remove any dirt, grime, or loose paint. You can use a power washer or a bucket of soapy water and a sponge to do this. Once the shutters are clean, dry them off with a rag.
If your shutters have multiple layers of old paint, you should remove most of it with a chemical stripper or a paint scraper. You should then sand the shutters lightly with medium sandpaper to create a surface for the new paint to cling to.
Now you are ready to start painting! If you are using a spray paint, it is a good idea to use a spray paint trigger handle, as this will make it easier to apply an even coat. If you are using a brush or roller, thin, even coats are best. You should allow the first coat of paint to dry completely before applying a second coat. Check your chosen product for recoat times.
Once the paint is dry, you can put your shutters back up. If you want extra protection for your new paint job, you can add a varnish or acrylic clear coat.
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How to avoid streaks and drips when spray painting plastic shutters
Painting plastic shutters can be a great way to revitalise the exterior of your home. If you're using spray paint, there are a few things to keep in mind to avoid streaks and drips and achieve a smooth, professional finish.
First, it's important to prepare the shutters. Clean the shutters with a plastic-safe household cleaner to remove any dirt or mildew. If the shutters are new and unpainted, you can use a lacquer thinner to wipe down the surface. It's also a good idea to prime the shutters, especially if you're using latex paint, as it won't bond well to bare plastic. Choose a primer that is suitable for plastic surfaces, avoiding metal-etching primers meant for cars and appliances.
When it comes to the paint itself, be sure to read the instructions and follow the recommended distance for spraying. Typically, it's advised to spray 10-12 inches away from the object. By keeping your distance, you can avoid applying too much paint in one go, which can cause drips. Spray in thin layers, allowing each layer to dry thoroughly before adding the next one. This will help you achieve an even finish and avoid any streakiness.
To ensure a smooth paint application, shake the can well before use. This will ensure that the paint is fully mixed. You can also spray into the air or on a test object first to ensure the nozzle is working properly. If you notice a build-up of paint on the nozzle, wipe it off with a rag to prevent accidental drips onto your shutters.
Additionally, consider using a paint sprayer designed for precision, such as the Critter Spray Gun, or a low-pressure spray can. These tools can help you achieve a softer spray, giving you more control over the paint application and reducing the risk of drips and streaks.
By following these tips and taking your time, you can effectively avoid streaks and drips when spray painting plastic shutters, resulting in a beautiful and professional finish.
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Frequently asked questions
It is recommended to use a plastic-safe paint that is rated for exterior use. Latex paints work best with vinyl shutters. Oil-based paints are not recommended as they will not bond well with the surface and will easily peel or crack when the plastic expands or shrinks.
Before painting, plastic shutters should be cleaned and primed. Any plastic-safe household cleaner can be used to scrub dirt or mildew from the plastic. If the shutters are newer and unpainted, a wipe-down with lacquer thinner can help to clean the surface. If you are keeping the same colour or a similar shade as the original vinyl, you can spray the paint directly onto the shutters. For a lighter shade or a colour that contrasts with the original, prime with a light grey or white base first.
It is recommended to remove the shutters before painting. Place them on a workhorse, table, or cardboard in your driveway. You can then use a paint sprayer or a can of spray paint to apply the paint. Spray following the grain of the vinyl and allow at least 1 hour before adding a second coat.
Be cautious when choosing a darker colour as these shades absorb more light, causing the plastic to warp and ripple. If you are painting without removing the shutters from the house, carefully tape around the shutter with painter's tape and be careful when painting the edges that sit against the siding.
