Install Louvered Aluminum Hurricane Exterior Shutters

Colonial louvered aluminum hurricane exterior shutters install on functional hinges. Hurricane shutters are made with reinforced louvers, designed for impact resistance. Storm bars are then used to lock the shutters in a closed position. Alternatively, the shutters can be constructed with integrated pin-latches, which provides a quicker, more convenient way to lock the shutters closed.

Decorative shutters are made with hollow louvers that are perfect for daily use, but less resilient to extreme force. By default, they do not include a locking mechanism but can be ordered with storm bars or pin-latches. Alternatively, decorative aluminum louvered shutters can install on stationary fixed mounting brackets. The brackets firmly secure the shutters to the side of the window.

Install Louvered Aluminum Exterior Shutters

Time needed: 1 hour

Step-by-step installation steps

Receive ordered shutters
Upon delivery, unpack and inspect the louvered shutters carefully to ensure all components are present and undamaged.
Obtain installation screws
Installation screws are not included. #14 corrosion-resistant, self-drilling roofing screws work well for most applications. Tapcon concrete screw-anchors work well when installing to brick or stone.
Screw in hinges
For functional installation with hinges, first raise the shutter unit into place, ensuring the louvers slant downward when covering the window. If possible, keep the storm bar attached for proper spacing and alignment. Secure the shutter by inserting and tightening a screw through the top right hinge, drilling a pilot hole if necessary. Next, level the unit and screw in the top left hinge. Once aligned, finish securing the remaining screws in all hinges. When the hinges are secure, remove and store the storm bars for preparation for a hurricane or tropical storm. The shutters should pivot smoothly.
Attach bullet catches
Bullet catches hold the shutters open. Locate the receiver about eight inches from the bottom of the shutter and fasten it with self-tapping screws. Hold the bullet head loosely against the catch, determine the best placement on the wall, pre-drill the hole, and then secure it with a double-threaded bolt using a 9/16 inch socket. Firmly push the shutter against the house to secure the fit.
Pin-latch installation (alternate)
For hurricane or decorative shutters with built-in pin-latches, start by lifting the right shutter into position and securing it with a screw in the top hinge. Level and tighten a screw into the bottom hinge before fastening the left shutter. Adhesive furniture pads can be used between panels to create an even 1/8 inch gap. Lift and align the left shutter at the top, then screw it into place before securing all remaining screws. Uneven mounting surfaces may need to be leveled before attaching hinges. Once installed, ensure the shutters swing freely.

To install the pin-latch receptor bar, begin by drilling two holes, one inch from either end of the receiving bar, using a 9/32 inch drill bit. Attach adhesive furniture pads to the top edge of the receiving bar before lifting it to touch the bottom of the shutters and centering it. Secure the receiving bar using the same screws as the hinges. If desired, invert the bar to conceal its vertical edge. Lower the pin latch onto the bar and move the shutter slightly to mark the intersection point. Open the shutters and drill nine-sixteenth-inch holes at the marked locations. The pin latches can now be used to lock the shutters closed. Repeat the same process for the top-side receiving bar.

Install Stationary Aluminum Exterior Shutters

For stationary installation with fixed brackets, first position the included L-shaped brackets, ensuring the short end is against the wall and the long end supports the shutter. Drill two holes, one to two inches from either end of the bracket’s short edge, using a 9/32 inch drill bit. Hold the bottom bracket in place at the intended shutter base and secure it with a screw closest to the window. Use a level to adjust the bracket to a horizontal position before fastening the far side. Lift the shutter and rest it on the lower bracket. Position the top bracket on the shutter’s top right edge, ensuring alignment with the face of the shutter and the short lip pointing upward. Pre-drill at least three inches from the edge of the shutter, then attach the bracket using self-tapping metal-to-metal screws. Repeat this process on the left side. Secure the final screws through the top bracket. If preferred, the top bracket can be flipped to conceal its lip behind the shutter. Finally, pre-drill the lower bracket and shutter for the locking screws and fasten them securely. Repeat the installation process for the opposite shutter.

Final Installation Inspection

After installation, perform final checks to ensure the shutters swing freely without obstruction, all screws are fully tightened, and locking mechanisms such as storm bars or pin latches function correctly. Adjust as necessary. With proper installation, louvered aluminum hurricane shutters provide reliable storm protection while enhancing the aesthetic appeal of the home.