How to fix your broken plantation shutters image

How To Fix Broken Plantation Shutters

How To Fix Broken Plantation ShuttersWhile plantation shutters are very hearty, they are not indestructible.  You may experience a few different problems as the shutters become older.  The hinges or latches can become loose or break, the louvers can loosen or snap, the magnets can break, or other problems that merit simple fixes.  If your plantation shutters are broken, you don’t need to throw them out.  Most fixes are easy enough to do it yourself.  Before you take on any DIY project, however, make sure that you won’t accidentally void your warranty— however if the shutters are still under warranty, you should probably just contact the retailer or manufacturer to see if they will fix the problem before you undertake massive projects.  Read on for the most common plantation shutter problems, and how to fix them.

Broken Louver

A broken louver is not only an aesthetic problem, but it can also allow light and cold drafts into the home.  The most common cause of a broken louver is dogs chewing on them.  Most of the time, you can repair a broken louver by replacing it with a new louver.  Pop out the louver by inserting a utility knife between the louver and the stile and tap the end if the knife sharply with a hammer.  The pin should snap, popping out the louver.  To reinstall or replace it, use a spring loaded shutter repair pin to lock the louver into place.   If the problem is simply that the louver has slid out of place, you can try to depress the spring loaded pin in the stile with a screwdriver as you slide the louver into place.  If it is missing the pin, get a spring loaded shutter repair pin to replace the part.

Loose Hinges and Latches

If the hinges and latches are loose, chances are, it is due to a loose screw.  Try to tighten the screw with a screwdriver.  If that doesn’t work, the screw may be stripped.  This can easily be fixed by inserting a toothpick or matchstick (without the head) into the hole, and then re-tightening the screw.  

Broken Magnets

Sometimes, the magnets on the outside of the shutter frame can wear down due to exposure to UV light, causing the frame to feel like it is loose.  This is a very easy fix.  Order replacement magnets and screw them in with a screwdriver.  

Broken Frame or Shutter Panel

This break is less common than the ones above, as it cannot occur from normal wear and tear.  If someone (or something) has crashed into the shutters, it may cause the frame or shutter panel to break.  This repair should not be attempted by yourself.  Call a professional to come out, assess the problem, and repair it for you.  

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