How to Remove Shutters From Outside Windows
Window shutters are installed on the exterior of a home or building and serve several functions. Some shutters are simply decorative and do not open and close. Other shutters fold inward to protect the glass in the window during storms and to provide privacy. If you decide to remove the window shutters from the windows, you will first have to examine them closely to determine how they are attached. Does this Spark an idea?
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Things You'll Need
- Ladder
- Chisel
- Hammer
- Diagonal cutter
- Electric drill
- 1/4-inch drill bit
- Silicone caulk
Instructions
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1
Place a ladder underneath the window, if applicable, and climb up on it so you can inspect the window shutters.
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2
Insert the end of a chisel blade in between the shutter and the exterior wall so that the end rests on one of the plastic nails that holds the shutter on the wall. Tap the end of the chisel handle with a hammer once or twice to cut through the nail. Repeat to cut through any nails that are securing the shutter and then set the shutter on the ground.
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3
Place the tip of a diagonal cutter at the base of the protruding nail in the wall and carve downward slightly to remove most of it. The remainder of the nail should be flush with the surface of the wall.
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4
Insert a 1/4-inch drill bit into an electric drill and place the tip of the bit into the center of the remaining plastic nail. Pull the trigger of the drill to remove all of the nail from the wall.
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5
Repeat to remove all other plastic nails and fill in the holes with an exterior grade silicone caulk.
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Tips & Warnings
If the shutters are attached with masonry or wood screws on hinges, use an electric screwdriver to remove the screws and take down the shutters.
You also can use a hacksaw instead of a chisel to cut through the nails.
References
- Photo Credit yellow shutters image by Jorge Moro from Fotolia.com
