Plantation Shutters Repair Guide

Posted on 30th May 2023 by Gemini Blinds

Plantation shutters are a timeless choice for any home, effortlessly imbuing your interior with elegance and warmth. However, like any home item in constant use, they can be subject to wear and tear over time and experience minor issues that require repairs. 

But how do you repair plantation shutters? And when is it best to just cut your losses and arrange a replacement?

The team at Gemini Blinds are trusted industry experts and we’re here to provide guidance on how to repair some of the most common issues that we encounter.

The louvres won’t stay in place

Through repeated wear and tear, every shutter can become dislodged from time to time. If your louvres won’t stay in place, this can allow additional light into your home, something which is particularly annoying when you’re trying to sleep. It also reduces the thermal protection that your shutters offer.

If your shutters have become dislodged, they must be fixed back into place. Each louvre is held in place by a louvre pin. Inspect the condition of this pin; if it has become bent out of shape, then it will need to be replaced. Your louvre pins can be re-used if they remain in good condition, simply use a flathead screwdriver to secure the pin while you re-insert the louvre. Make sure to align the pin correctly and test the louvre to ensure it is straight and properly aligned. Once the correct position has been established, use a screwdriver to tighten the pin, but be careful not to overtighten as this can restrict movement.

Broken frames or louvres

Generally, minor breaks in frames or louvres can be repaired with a bit of wood glue. However, it’s important to note that this will affect the appearance of your shutter and it may not look as good as before. Nevertheless, the functionality will likely be unimpaired. If the damage is large or compromises the structural integrity of your shutters, you may need to opt for a full replacement.

The louvres won’t open or close properly

If your louvres are not opening or closing properly, the first and perhaps most obvious step is to check for any potential obstructions that might be blocking their movement. If none are found, the next step is to lubricate the hinges and pivot points. This reduces any friction and should allow the shutters to move smoothly. 

Additionally, it is crucial to inspect all tension screws to ensure they are appropriately adjusted — not too tight or too loose — as improper tension can hinder the movement of the louvres. If you have attempted these measures without success, it might be time to seek assistance from a professional.

Wood rot

Although wooden louvres are an aesthetically pleasing choice, they can be subject to problems such as wood rot. Wood rot is caused by a fungus that gets into the material. This fungus tends to thrive in damp environments, so your bathroom and kitchen shutters may be particularly susceptible. 

A common sign of wood rot is warping or difficulty opening and closing your shutters. In some minor cases, this wood rot damage can be chiselled out. However, this can leave marks and result in your shutters looking battered and worn. If wood rot becomes too widespread, the best course of action is to replace the shutter entirely.

Gemini Blinds has been installing plantation shutters at homes throughout Chester, Manchester, Liverpool and beyond for over 40 years. Our team has a wealth of experience and we are always happy to talk you through the range of shutters we have available.

For more information about plantation shutter repairs and replacements, get in touch with our friendly team today.