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Shutter Mounting Instructions
Depending on your choice of frame and panel materials, Shutterstile shutters can weigh more than comparable traditional shutters. Therefore, proper mounting is crucial to ensure that you will enjoy your shutters for many years to come.
Our experience suggests that most people choose Shutterstile shutters for their unique decorative qualities. Few of our customers will ever use their shutters in the traditional manner as a barrier to the elements. Therefore, we recommend that you mount your shutters permanently to the structure. This method is not only the most secure, but it is also far less expensive than traditional shutter hardware.
There are three mounting options for you to consider. Following is a description of each. Whichever method you choose, it is important that you leave a space between the shutter and the wall to prevent moisture accumulation that could damage the shutter or the wall.
Remember, proper mounting is imperative. We cannot be responsible for damage that occurs to your shutters or to your home as a result of improperly mounted shutters.
Mounting with Shutterstile Z Brackets
Z-Bar Shutter Mounting Brackets
Z-Bar Shutter Mounting Brackets
We offer a strong and simple z-bar type bracket assembly that is more than adequate to support our heaviest shutters provided it is properly attached to the structure. The exact method for using the z-bar bracket will depend on whether your home is masonry or wood frame construction [Note: stucco may be applied over either wood frame or masonry construction]. In either case, the shutter is installed with the panels removed to allow access to the mounting brackets through the panel cutouts. As a result, there are no visible fasteners, brackets, or hinges once the installation is complete.
Mounting Directly to the Wall
If you choose, you may also screw your shutters directly to a masonry wall with an appropriate anchor system, or to a wood frame wall [provided that at least two screws are firmly anchored in the wall studs and two additional screws are set in a wood or plywood sheathing]. Be sure to predrill the screw holes in the shutters to prevent splitting. For shutters made of Koma PVC that are shorter than 48 inches, use one screw at each corner (four screws total for each shutter). For shutters made of Koma PVC that are taller than 48 inches, use one screw at each corner and two additional screws about half way up the stiles [the vertical frame pieces].
Improperly mounted shutters sag over time
Mounting with Traditional Shutter Hardware
Traditional shutter mounting hardware is available in a wide range of styles and prices from a number of online vendors or from high end hardware suppliers. If you want your shutters to be operable, we recommend that you select a strap style hinge that runs horizontally across the shutter attaching to both stiles (the vertical frame members) for maximum support. You will need at least three hinges for shutters that are 48 inches or taller to provide sufficient rigidity. The accompanying photo illustrates the inevitable fate of an operable shutter that is improperly mounted.
Installing the Panels
Panel installation is quick and easy. Simply insert the lip at the top of the panel into the groove in the bottom of the upper rail (see the accompanying figure). Simultaneously, lift up on the panel and push the bottom of the panel into the opening such that it rests on the two rubber bumpers on the bottom rail. Insert the stainless steel screw through the hole in the bottom trim piece and hand tighten. Take care not to over tighten. The screw need only be snug. Repeat the process for each additional panel.
Should you have any questions about mounting your shutters, please feel free to contact us. It's a good idea to ask before you order, to make sure you are planning to use the most appropriate mounting system.
Step One: loosen mounting screw Step Two: lift panel out and down Step Three: insert new panel and tighten screw