Do-it-Yourself Wood Shutters

Board and batten-style shutters.

Shutters used to be functional covers for window openings, protecting fragile glass from debris thrown in storms. Today, the exterior shutter is a decorative element used to add architectural interest to a house. A shutter is an opportunity to bring an additional accent or trim color to the home, and the style of the shutter can create an atmosphere of charm and appeal that a plain home may be lacking. Making a simple wood shutter is not difficult.

Things You'll Need

• Tape measure
• 1-inch thick board
• Table saw
• Screws
• Drill
• Screwdriver
• Silicone caulk
• Orbital sander
• Sandpaper
• Oil-based primer and paint

Instructions

1. Measure the width of your window and divide that amount in half. This would be the size of an antique functional shutter. Modern shutters tend to be narrower than the old standard. Subtract 3 to 5 inches from your width measurement.

2. Select a board width where you can obtain your width measurement using 2 or 3 planks side by side, with a 1/8-inch gap between the boards. A 1-inch thick board is a good thickness. The gap is necessary to allow the wood to expand and contract. Cut your boards to length using a table saw.

3. Line up your boards on the work table spaced 1/8-inch apart. Measure the width and cut two boards to this size. If you have a narrower board available, crossbar boards looks better when they are smaller than the shutter boards.

4. Measure the height of the shutter boards and divide by four. Measure this distance from the top edge and draw a horizontal line across the planks. This is the approximate location of the top crossbar. Repeat for the bottom edge. Adjust the position closer to the top and bottom until you like the arrangement.

5. Drill four pilot holes for each plank. Screw galvanized wood screws through the crossbars into the planks. The screws should not exit the planks.

6. Sand the shutter on both sides with an orbital sander, using medium and fine sandpaper. Prime and paint the shutter using an exterior oil-based primer and paint in a color you like. Apply a bead of clear silicone along the top edge of each crossbar to prevent water entering between the boards.

Tips & Warnings

• Taper the top of the crossbars to shed water to provide additional water protection. Cut decorative holes in the center of the shutter to create a shadow effect.

References

• Wood Shop Tips: Making Board & Batten Shutters