Exterior Wood Shutters: 3 Tips To Finishing and Maintaining

Real exterior wood shutters will add value to any home. While there are many discussions regarding the maintenance of wooden shutters, the fact is, there is no substitute for them. Western red cedar has a very distinct look and cannot be matched using synthetic products. If you are set on purchasing exterior wood window shutters for your home, here are three tips you can use to minimize the maintenance often associated with using wood materials in outdoor applications.

• Tip #1: Do Not Finish Until Acclimated
  
  Be absolutely sure that your new exterior shutters have had time to acclimate with their surroundings and have proper moisture content readings. Moisture readings vary depending on what part of the country you live in. For example, in Arizona the normal readings will be around 8% while on the East coast the readings could be as high as 15%. It is best to research and know your areas average and allow your wood shutters at least one week to reach a moisture content level close to that average. Failure to do so could result in the finish not adhering properly, cracking, bubbling and many other problems as the wood moves in an effort to reach the surrounding moisture content.
  
  

• Tip #2: Use a High Quality Finish
  
  It is best to give your new wooden shutters a light sanding with 220 grit sandpaper before you apply your finish. If painting, use a high quality, oil based primer and allow to dry. Because priming actually raises the fibers in the wood, you will need to lightly sand again using 220 grit sandpaper. After all sanding is complete be sure to wipe off all excess dust. You are now ready to apply your finish paint. We recommend two finish coats of high quality exterior grade paint. Sherwin Williams SuperPaint series is an excellent choice. It is a very thick paint so be sure to allow plenty of drying time between coats. If the first coat is still even the slightest bit tacky, allow more time to dry. If you continue with second coat before first coat is dry, your wood shutters will be tacky for a very long time- perhaps even permanently.
  
   If using stain, you can skip the priming step. You will still need to lightly sand prior to applying the stain. Do not sand the stain! Give it plenty of time to dry and apply three coats of clear finish for protection. You should lightly sand between all clear coats to ensure an even finish.
  
  
  
• Tip #3: Routine Maintenance
  
  If you want to keep your new exterior wood shutters looking their best then you must inspect them regularly. Once in the Spring and again in late Fall. Be sure to fill any cracks or splits and to paint or stain any bare wood. If the finish has cracked or is failing in any way then you must sand them lightly and apply a finish coat.With proper maintenance, your new cedar wood shutters will last for many years to come.
  
  
  

If you have any questions on finishing techniques or products please call one of our wood shutter experts and we will be glad to help you.