How To Use Plastic Screws To Install External Shutters?

Installing vinyl shutters is a simple and effective way to enhance curb appeal in your home. There are two methods for installing vinyl shutters: using non-corrosive metal screws or using vinyl spikes. For shutters under 55 inches, use four screws per corner, while for those 55 inches or larger, use six screws per corner and two in the center. Line up the shutter with the wall and drill through pre-drilled holes in the shutter and into the wall surface. Drill 2 3/4 inches into the wall for proper holding.

There are two methods of installing vinyl shutters: using non-corrosive metal screws or using vinyl spikes. Screws can be used to install vinyl shutters to concrete or brick with wall anchors or mollys that first insert into the wall. Aluminum or vinyl siding requires solid braces behind. Mounting hardware for shutter installation is often included with new shutters, and most are suitable for various siding surfaces.

Adding shutters to a house is an easy way to boost its curb appeal. Shutter installation is a straightforward project, and depending on the number of windows, it can add visual appeal to the front of your home and protect your windows against heavy wind and rain. The installation process involves grabbing the shutter fastener supporting shank, pushing it through the shutter hold and into the wall surface, and tapping the shutter fastener gently with a hammer.

Installing exterior shutters on brick requires six 3″ deck screws and corresponding plastic anchors per shutter. Push the shutter locks through the pilot holes in the shutter into the exterior wall, using a hammer to gently tap the fasteners to snug the shutter to the wall. To remove shutters, use snips to slide them behind the shutter to cut the shutter fastener.

Should I use shutter spikes or screws?

The installation of vinyl exterior shutters requires the use of specialized tools, including shutter screws and spikes. The screws are utilized to affix the shutters to pliable exterior surfaces, such as wood, whereas the spikes are employed to secure them to more durable materials, including brick. It should be noted that these tools are sold separately and are required for one pair of shutters.

What screws are used for shutters?

Colour matched screws are standard 2 ½ inch steel screws with painted heads that match your shutters. They are supplied with white colour matched screws for white shutters. To install them, mark the locations for drilling and fixing the shutters, drill a hole smaller than the screw head, drill a hole that is the right size and depth to accommodate the wall anchor, position the shutter back on the building, and tighten the screws. These screws are not permanent, unlike shutter spikes, and are particularly useful for painted walls that require periodic maintenance.

Can you screw into vinyl shutters?

It is recommended that shutter slights be used for installation, although screws may also be employed for this purpose on brick.

How are shutters secured?

Shutter spikes are a common fixing for decorative shutters made from polypropylene (vinyl). They are made in the same material as the shutter and do not require a wall anchor to fix to the wall. They have a serrated shank that grabs as the spike is inserted into the wall, similar to pushing an umbrella through a hole. They are designed to be tapped into the hole. If movement occurs when using Shutter Spikes, it is due to the size of the hole in the wall.

To remove the spikes, use a thin hacksaw blade and drill out the core using a smaller drill bit. Insert a small sliver of wood to fill the hole and remove any free play. Functional shutters have hinges on pintels that can be easily lifted off the shutter. They are heavy and require assistance when removing them at height, with a mobile tower being the best option for safety.

How to remove plastic shutter screws?

The product is sold in packs of 12, and the process of inserting new ones is similar to the use of barbed hooks when hammering a nail.

Can you screw directly into vinyl?

Vinyl siding is a soft material, so improperly placed screws or excessive pressure can cause significant damage over time. Water infiltration can also occur due to improperly sized screws, leading to cracks behind the siding and potentially damaging sheathing and framing. Loose screws can cause insulation issues and create air gaps between rooms, causing space issues. Rusted screws can also rust and stain vinyl siding, leaving unsightly marks.

To ensure a safe installation, use stainless steel or vinyl-coated screws, suited for outdoor environments, and choose screws with lengths that penetrate both siding and understructure securely without going all the way through walls. A2Z Roofing can recommend the appropriate screw size and type for your specific project.

How to use shutter screws?

To install a shutter fastener, grasp the supporting shank, insert it through the shutter hold, and then gently tap it with a hammer to secure the shutter against the siding. It is important to avoid overtightening in order to prevent the formation of dimples.

How are plastic shutters attached to brick?

The process of tapping spikes until the head connects with the shudder face should be repeated on the opposite side. Once completed, one should take a moment to admire the result.

How to get plastic screws out of shutters?

The product is sold in packs of 12, and the process of inserting new ones is similar to the use of barbed hooks when hammering a nail.

What holds shutters in place?

Shutter dogs, also referred to as shutter holdbacks or shutter tiebacks, are designed with the purpose of securing window shutters to the wall when in an open position.

How are exterior shutters attached?

Exterior shutters are installed on 2-3 hinges that sit atop “pintels” screwed into the window frame. Pintels come in three sizes: siding, brick, and rock. The wrong pintel may prevent the shutters from offset the right distance and keep them from lying flush on the house. Two hinges are enough for shutters up to 47″ height, but for extra tall shutters up to 95″ height, three hinges/shutter are needed for additional support.

The first step is to attach the shutter hinges to the back of the shutter, with each shutter having a mirror partner. It is recommended to flush the top and bottom hinges with the shutter to ensure correct pintel alignment. Next, secure the exterior shutter to the home by securing the first pintel into the window first, then slide the shutter into the first pintel, place the second pintel through the hinge, and screw into the windows reveal.

An S-Shaped piece called a shutter stay or shutter dog is used to hold the shutter open, installed in the bottom opposite corner directly to the home. For brick or rock, use lag anchors, while for siding, pre-drill a smaller 1/4″ hole and tighten the shutter dog in place.

Lastly, install a hidden metal L-bracket in the top opposite corner of the shutter to secure it to the home and keep the shutter open. Screw the metal bracket into the siding first with a 2″ screw, then drive a 2″ screw down into the top of the shutter.