Can Plantation Shutters Be Repainted or Stained?

The perfect shutter color can really tie a room together. Whether you want to match your existing decor or add a contrasting pop of character, getting the right color is important. A common question is whether plantation shutters can be repainted or restained after delivery. Here is the full answer.

Wooden Shutters — Yes, with Some Effort

Wooden shutters can be repainted or restained, though it takes some work. Our shutters are coated with a minimum of 7 layers of paint or stain mixed with a UV protectant and sealant — a finish built to last for years without yellowing, chipping, or fading. To repaint:

• Use a fine-grit sandpaper to gently remove the existing paint and sealant down to the wood

• Prime the wood and apply your new paint color in even coats

• Allow ample drying time between coats

For stained shutters: the stain has already been absorbed into the wood material, making it more labor intensive to restore to the original wood color before accepting a new stain. If you think you may want a different stain color down the road, it is best to order unfinished wood from the start.

Vinyl Shutters — Not Advisable

Our polyvinyl shutters are solid vinyl with an aluminum core. Because vinyl is non-porous and cannot be sanded to a smooth finish, it is very difficult to get additional paint to adhere properly after production. Repainting vinyl shutters is not recommended.

How to Get the Right Color the First Time

Rather than repainting, here are the easier alternatives to ensure you get the right color when you order.

Choose from Our Available Color Range

We offer a wide selection of paint and stain options across our ranges. All materials are available in neutral tones from white through to grey. Our wooden ranges also offer a variety of stain colors showing the natural wood grain.

Order Free Samples

Screen colors vary between devices. The only reliable way to confirm a color is to hold a physical sample against your walls and furnishings in your own home. We offer up to 4 free samples, each cut from an actual slat in the exact material and color you are considering.