How to Paint Metal Exterior Shutters

Although they are less common than wood or vinyl, metal exterior shutters can be found on many homes. Over time, like wood shutters, the paint may flake or fade, making it necessary to repaint them. Keeping your metal shutters well painted and in good repair will also help guard against rust and other problems.

Step 1: Remove the shutters from exterior of your house. Keep the shutters in order, or devise of another system to keep track of which shutter belongs to which window. This will make the re-installation process easier.

Step 2: Sand away any rust with fine grit sandpaper. Also sand away any flaking paint.

TIP: Most metal shutters will not be rusted because they are made with metal that will not rust. However, some metal shutters are simply dipped in a non rusting alloy, leaving the metal underneath still able to rust. If the metal is dented, or has experienced significant wear, this metal may be exposed and begin to rust.

Step 3: Use a sponge and warm, soapy water to remove any dirt from the surface of the metal shutters. Dry the shutters before continuing.

Step 4: Apply a coat of rust resistant primer to the surface of the metal shutters. For best results, paint the back surface completely first, then allow it to dry. Then prime the edges of the shutter. Finally, paint the front the metal shutter. Allow the metal shutter to completely dry before continuing.

TIP: A paint sprayer will be best for this project, but you can use a brush if you do not have access to this piece of equipment. If you use a paint sprayer, a set of sawhorses to suspend the shutters as they are being painted will be invaluable.

Step 5: Apply a coat of paint over the primer, using the same technique you used to apply the primer. Let the first coat dry completely, then apply a second coat. Allow the metal shutters to dry before proceeding.

Step 6: Reinstall the metal shutters to flank each set of windows.