Things You'll Need
Step ladder
Helper
Tin snips
Chisel or rigid putty knife (optional)
Hammer
Drill with a quarter-inch bit
Silicone caulk
Caulk gun
Utility knife
Replacement shutter lock
Replacing a loose or damaged shutter lock fastener does not require removing the entire shutter. Shutter lock fasteners are plastic pins that have ridges on the shank. The ridges grip the inside of the hole in the exterior wall. Over time, a shutter lock or two becomes loose, requiring replacement. This usually occurs in one of the upper corners due to wind or pressure from snow buildup. Replacing a shutter lock fastener involves filling the hole in the wall to give the new fastener an opportunity to grasp the hole and secure the shutter.
Step 1
Set up a step ladder under the shutter so you are able to reach the loose or broken shutter lock without stretching. If the ground is unstable, ask a friend to hold the step ladder while you replace the shutter lock fastener.
Video of the Day
Step 2
Slide a pair of tin snips between the shutter and wall at the loose shutter lock. Cut the shutter lock even with the wall with the tin snips. If you cannot get the tin snips behind the shutter, slide a chisel or even a rigid putty knife blade behind the shutter. Tap the end of the chisel or the handle of the putty knife blade with a hammer to cut through the shutter lock.
Step 3
Pull the shutter lock head out of the front of the shutter with your fingers. Insert a quarter-inch drill bit into your drill. Drill through the existing hole in the shutter and into the hole in the wall. The drill bit will disintegrate the plastic shutter lock inside the wall.
Step 4
Place a new tube of silicone caulk into a caulk gun. Cut off the tip of the caulk below the first cut line on the tip with a utility knife. Insert the tip through the shutter until it is against the hole in the wall. Squeeze the caulk gun trigger to insert caulk into the hole.
Step 5
Insert the new shutter lock fastener into the shutter and the hole in the wall. Tap the head of the fastener with a hammer until it is flush against the shutter. The silicone caulk will seal around the shutter lock as well as provide better grip for the fastener.
Tip
Avoid enlarging the hole as shutter lock fasteners are available in one diameter. If necessary, drill out the shank of the old fastener with a one-eighth drill bit.
Video of the Day