How to Install Interior Shutters

If you are looking for a unique way to dress your interior windows but do not wish to use traditional blinds, curtains or drapery, perhaps installing interior shutters is the way to go. The look is fresh and clean and a great option for diverting from the norm. Installation can be done in a fairly short amount of time and they will last as long as you want them to. Interior shutters are easy to clean and offer a unique twist to home decoration.

You will need to measure the windows you are installing them on to get a proper fit. Make sure you measure and mark down the narrowest size if will be installing the shutters on the inside of the window opening. Make sure you measure to allow the slight overlap on the jamb if you will be placing the shutters on the outside of the window opening.

Now you can gather your tools. You will need the following:

The proper sized shutters and the mounting kit that comes with them.

Primer

Paint or stain (if you are using them for your shutters)

Tape measure

Pencil

Chisel

Hammer

Drill and drill bits

Screwdriver

Cedar shims

Straight edge

The first thing you want to do is hold your shutters up to the opening to ensure they are the proper fit. When you have determined that they are you want to apply primer and allow to dry (if you will be painting or staining them). Then add paint or stain, if desired, and allow that to dry. Just a note: Staining shutters is a lot simpler than painting them and provides a rich and finished look. Painting provides a light and clean look but is harder to apply because the louvers are difficult to paint uniformly (without globbing the paint).

Now you want to follow the manufacturer's instructions that came with your shutters to determine where to create the jamb mortises. Temporarily apply the hinges on the window jambs and outline with your utility knife. Mark the drill holes with a pencil and drill pilot holes in them.

Unscrew your hinge and use your chisel and hammer to etch out the wood until you have a mortis that is flush with the wood when the hinge is inside of it. Put your hinges in place by temporarily screwing a screw in them so you can test the hang of your shutters.

Put your shutters in place and use your cedar shim to make sure there is the same amount of space all the way around them. Test how they open and shut. When you have them exactly as you would like them you are going to install them for good. Trace the outline of your hinges with a pencil onto the stiles and then use your utility knife and straight edge to carefully go over those pencil marks. Take the shutters down and create your mortises on them, if specified in the mounting instructions. Install screws to hold shutters firmly in place by the hinges. You now have a look that is not replicated in too many homes and one that will give you a great overall visual affect and focal point in your decorating process.