How to Install Exterior Wood Shutters (Any Siding Type)

Installing exterior shutters is straightforward — a drill, a level, and about 20 minutes per window if the shutters are already finished. Here's how to install ours.

Before You Start

Order all shutters at once. Because our shutters are finished from natural wood, ordering separate batches at different times can result in slight color and grain variation. Order all needed pairs in a single order so they're finished from the same batch.

Inspect on arrival. Check every shutter within 30 days of delivery. Once installed, alterations disqualify a return.

Tools You'll Need

  • Drill with 1/8" pilot bit
  • Level (small torpedo level is fine)
  • Ladder appropriate for your window height
  • Pencil for marking
  • Measuring tape

For brick, stucco, or fiber cement, you'll also need masonry anchors (available at any hardware store) instead of the wood screws that ship with the shutters.

Step-by-Step

1. Position the shutter

Hold the shutter flush against the siding, one edge tight against the window frame. Left shutter on the left side of the window, right shutter on the right side (they're mirrored).

2. Check level

Place your level along the top of the shutter. Adjust until it reads level, then mark the top and bottom mounting holes with a pencil.

3. Drill pilot holes

Set the shutter aside. Drill pilot holes at your pencil marks with a 1/8" bit. On wood siding, drill about 1" deep. On brick, stucco, or fiber cement, drill to the depth your masonry anchor requires.

4. Mount the shutter

Reposition the shutter and drive the included screws through the shutter into your pilot holes. Snug — don't overtighten. Overtightening can crack the finish or split the wood.

5. Repeat for the second shutter

Same process, mirrored, on the other side of the window frame.

Wood Siding

Easiest install — the wood screws included with your shutters are sized for this. Drill pilot holes and drive the screws.

Brick or Stucco

Use plastic or lead masonry anchors. Drill your pilot hole to match the anchor size, tap the anchor in flush with the surface, then drive the screw through the shutter into the anchor. Don't skip the anchor — screws driven directly into brick or stucco will strip out over time.

Fiber Cement (HardiePlank)

Fiber cement is dense but brittle. Drill slow with a masonry bit, use plastic anchors, and stop as soon as you feel the drill "break through" the plank. Driving too aggressively will crack the panel.

Refinishing Later

Cedar shutters hold their finish for 5-7 years depending on sun and weather exposure. When you're ready to refresh:

  1. Take shutters off the wall (single screw per mounting point, comes off cleanly)
  2. Light sand with 220-grit
  3. Wipe clean, let dry fully
  4. Apply exterior stain or paint in 2 thin coats
  5. Reinstall with the same mounting hardware

Questions about your specific siding or a tricky window? Email us a photo and we'll help you plan the install.

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