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Trim and shutters are like the finishing touches on your home’s exterior—they frame the architecture and add that extra visual polish. Over time, though, even the best paint will fade, chip, or crack, especially under the intense sun, rain, and humidity we experience here in Wake Forest, NC.
Repainting your trim and shutters is one of the simplest ways to give your home a crisp, refreshed look. But it’s not as easy as slapping on a new coat of paint. From prep work to paint selection and application methods, there are critical steps that impact durability and appearance. Here’s everything you need to know before getting started.
Before you pick up a brush, inspect your trim and shutters to see whether they truly need repainting—or if a good cleaning will do the trick. Signs of wear include peeling, bubbling, or chalking paint. Trim that’s faded or discolored, or shutters with brittle or warped plastic, are strong indicators it’s time for a refresh.
Wood trim should also be checked for moisture damage. Soft spots, cracks, or rot are red flags that repairs are needed before painting. On vinyl shutters, prolonged sun exposure often causes fading and brittleness, especially on darker colors.
In the Wake Forest climate, with its humid summers and fluctuating temperatures, it’s wise to check your trim and shutters at least once a year. Staying ahead of damage not only keeps your home looking great but protects its value.
No step is more critical than preparation. Rushing through or skipping it leads to premature peeling, bubbling, and uneven coverage. Start by cleaning all surfaces with soap and water—or a power washer for built-up grime. Remove mold, mildew, and chalky residue using a mild solution of bleach or trisodium phosphate (TSP).
Once dry, scrape off loose or peeling paint with a putty knife. Sand the area until smooth, feathering edges where old paint meets bare surface. Caulk any gaps around windows, doorframes, or seams to seal out moisture.
Apply a primer to any exposed wood, patched areas, or drastically color-shifting surfaces. Primers help seal porous materials, block stains, and ensure uniform coverage. In Wake Forest, where moisture intrusion is common, stain-blocking primers are a wise investment for long-lasting results.
Good prep isn’t just about appearance—it’s about preventing failure and preserving your paint investment.
Selecting the right products is essential for weather resistance, cleanability, and aesthetic finish. For trim, use semi-gloss or high-gloss acrylic latex paint. These finishes repel moisture, resist UV damage, and are easier to wipe down than flat paints.
If painting wood shutters, opt for the same acrylic latex formulation. Vinyl shutters, however, require a vinyl-safe paint—typically lighter shades—so the plastic doesn’t warp under heat. Always check the manufacturer’s recommendations for vinyl compatibility.
For tools, angled sash brushes offer precise lines on trim. Use foam rollers for flat sections and small sprayers for large batches of shutters. Don’t cut corners with dollar-store brushes—they shed bristles and leave streaks.
Using the right combination of tools and paint ensures your project goes smoother and looks more professional.
Trim: Tape off surrounding siding, brick, or glass with painter’s tape. Use your angled brush to cut in cleanly around edges. Apply thin, even coats—thick layers may sag or crack. Always allow full drying time between coats, as recommended by the paint manufacturer.
Shutters: Lay removed shutters on a flat surface covered with a drop cloth. Start with primer (if needed), then apply your paint using a sprayer, roller, or high-quality brush. If painting shutters in place, carefully tape the siding and surrounding trim to avoid overspray or drips.
Apply paint from top to bottom in steady strokes, making sure to cover louvers and edges. Two thin coats are better than one thick one.
Patience and precision during application ensure a finish that holds up through Wake Forest’s variable climate.
Homeowners often wonder whether to remove shutters for painting or leave them installed. Both options have merit.
Painting shutters in place saves time and avoids the hassle of reinstallation. However, it limits access to edges and backs and increases the risk of paint getting on siding or windows.
Removing shutters allows full access for sanding, priming, and painting all sides. It also enables a cleaner, more even finish, especially with sprayers. Just be sure to label your shutters and hardware so everything returns to its original location.
At Dixie Paint, Inc., we recommend removal when possible. For homes with aging or heavily weathered shutters, taking them down often results in a more thorough and polished outcome.
Many painting jobs fail because of avoidable errors. Here are the most common:
Using high-quality products and tools also makes a noticeable difference.
Once your paint has cured, keeping it looking fresh is relatively easy. Clean trim and shutters a couple of times per year with a gentle soap-and-water solution to remove dirt and mold.
Inspect surfaces in spring and fall for signs of cracking, flaking, or fading. Prompt touch-ups prevent small issues from turning into big problems.
If your shutters receive direct afternoon sun, consider applying a clear UV-protective coating. It can extend the color and integrity of your finish—especially on bold or dark tones.
Diligent maintenance means fewer full repaints in the years to come.
Repainting trim and shutters offers a high-impact improvement that boosts curb appeal and protects your home from the elements. With the right preparation, proper tools, quality materials, and smart techniques, your results can last for years.
At Dixie Paint, Inc., we help homeowners across Wake Forest, NC revitalize their exteriors with attention to detail and a dedication to durability. Whether your shutters are faded or your trim is peeling, we’re here to help you get it done right.
Ready for a refreshed look? Reach out today for a free quote and let our experts handle your next exterior painting project with precision and care.
Let’s turn your vision into reality. Get started on your painting and home improvement project by requesting a quote from our expert team. Your dream space is just a click away.
Dixie Paint Inc is a professional painting company in operation for 40+ years serving the Triangle. We take great pride in our work always going "above and beyond" to make our clients happy. We have a "white glove" approach to your job and cleaning up so you can't even tell we were there. We use high quality paints, caulks and sealers to make your project last. We also provide rotted wood repair and power washing services! Give us a call!
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