Paint or Stain Shutters for a Spring Refresh
Whether you want to update the color, protect the wood, or improve its overall appearance, painting or staining your home’s shutters is an easy and inexpensive way to enhance your home’s curb appeal.
The first step of your project will be preparing the shutters for paint or stain. Remove the existing paint or stain using a sander and medium grit sandpaper. Use a sanding block to access corners the larger sander may not effectively reach. If there are some sections that the paint is reluctant to come off, minimally make sure it is scuffed well to help the new paint adhere to it. Once you have completed the sanding, use a blower followed by a damp cloth to remove any remaining dust or debris.
Painting
When painting your shutters, you must apply a quality primer to ensure the paint will adhere to the wood and last for many years. Apply the primer with even strokes and allow it to dry as recommended. We recommend Benjamin Moore Primers for the best coverage.
Once the primer is dry, it’s time to apply your paint. Using high-quality paint is crucial for long-lasting performance. Benjamin Moore’s best-selling exterior paints are AURA Exterior and Regal Select Exterior Paint. Both come with a 25-year limited warranty which covers peeling, blistering, and weathering. Use a high-quality brush or roller to apply your paint in smooth strokes. Apply 2 to 3 coats allowing to dry between each coat thoroughly.
Staining
Apply your stain using a quality paintbrush or roller using long, even strokes. You will want to apply 2 to 3 coats to maximize color depth and achieve the most significant protection. Arborcoat Exterior Stains by Benjamin Moore offer superior protection while enhancing the texture and grain of wood surfaces and are available as a solid or translucent stain.
Painting Vs. Staining the Pros and Cons of Each
Painting:
Pros
Wide range of colors to choose from
Covers up any imperfections or damage on the shutters
Long-lasting and durable
Cons
Even when appropriately applied, sometimes paint can peel or crack
Paint will fade over time, so using a high-quality exterior paint is critical
Your shutters may require touch up over time
Staining:
Pros
It brings out the natural beauty of the wood
Stain is easy to work with, is easy to touch up and reapply
Effectively protects wood from water and weather
Cons
Limited colors are available.
It loses its vibrance over time and will need to be reapplied.
In conclusion, whether you paint or stain your home’s shutters, both options can significantly improve the look of your exterior. Consider your style and the level of maintenance you are willing to commit to when making your decision. Visit your local paint and stain pros at Cardinal Home Centers to get the Benjamin Moore paints and stains and the tools you need to accomplish the project. With a bit of patience and attention to detail, you can transform your shutters into a beautiful and functional feature of your home.
Cardinal’s Featured Shutter Brands
Interested in custom shutters for your home? Check out these options that are available for ordering by our sales team! If interested, fill out a quote form or contact any of our locations.
