How to Install Shutters on Brick: 7 Steps That Don’t Involve Hiring a Pro
Shut(ter) up and get your shutters together
- Measuring tape
- Level
- Drill
- Drill bit (1/4-inch)
- Safety glasses
- Shutters
- Pencil
- Painter’s tape (optional)
- Masking tape
- Small brush (optional)
Shutters used to be all about keeping the weather out, but these days, they’re mostly about style. When combined with the natural charm of brick, they can seriously boost your home’s curb appeal. The good news is that installing fixed shutters on brick is a DIY project that’s totally doable—even for beginners. With just a few hours, the right tools, and a little patience, you can transform your brick exterior into something that’s as stylish as it is solid.
Measure the Window and Shutters
Start by using your tape measure to take precise measurements of your window opening. Measure the width from one side of the trim to the other. For a balanced decorative look, pick shutters that are about half of the window’s width. For example, if your window is 36 inches wide, you’ll want two shutters that are each 18 inches wide. Next, measure the height from the top of the trim to the bottom. Most shutters come in standard height increments of four inches—35 inches, 39 inches, 43 inches, etc.—so pick the size closest to your measured height.
Mark the Shutter Placement
Place one shutter next to the window. If you’re using vinyl or composite shutters, leave about a 1/4-inch gap between the trim and the shutter to let it expand and contract with temperature changes. You don’t need to worry about this if you’re working with wood shutters. Use a level to check that it’s straight, then grab a pencil to mark the top and bottom corners right onto the brick. A second set of hands will make this project easier. For a cleaner line, you can also outline the shutters with painter’s tape. Repeat this for the other shutter on the opposite side.
Mark the Mounting Holes (on the Shutter)
Lay the shutter face-up on a sturdy surface, like a piece of scrap wood—something you don’t mind drilling into. Mark where the mounting holes will go on the side rails. In the center of each side rail, measure two inches from the top and bottom. Use your pencil to mark these drilling holes clearly. For taller shutters (44 inches or more), add an extra hole on each side, spacing them evenly for a secure fit.
Carefully align the shutter with the brick's outline. Make sure your marks line up with the mortar joints. If your shutter marks don’t line up with the mortar, use your level to tweak them slightly to ensure they do. It’s crucial to drill into the mortar to avoid cracking the brick.
Drill the Mounting Holes (on the Shutter)
Photo: Ralf Geithe / iStock / Getty ImagesNow, put your shutter back onto your drillable surface. Grab your drill and a 1/4-inch multi-purpose drill bit to pre-drill at each marked location. These holes will be where your shutter locks (or fasteners) go.
Drill Pilot Holes into the Brick
Before you start drilling into the brick, put on your safety glasses to protect your eyes from flying debris. Then, set the shutter back against the brick wall, and grab your hammer drill. Attach a carbide masonry drill bit (typically 1/4-inch for shutter locks), and use the pre-marked holes on the shutter as a guide. Drill into the mortar at those spots, aiming for a depth of 3 ¼ inches. To avoid drilling too deep, measure 3 ¼ inches from the tip of the bit and mark it with masking tape. Use a small brush or compressed air duster to clear any dust from the holes once you're done.
Enlarge the Holes in the Shutters
Use a 3/8-inch drill bit to enlarge the pre-drilled holes in the shutters only. This gives the shutter locks (or plastic fasteners) enough room to slide easily through the shutters while fitting snugly into the pilot holes.
Install the Shutters
Align the holes in the shutter with the pilot holes you drilled into the mortar. Push the shutter locks through the shutter holes and into the pilot holes in the wall. Use a hammer to gently tap the heads of the shutter locks, securing the shutter firmly to the brick. Repeat the process for the second shutter.
Mistakes to Avoid
Installing shutters can really elevate your home’s curb appeal, but it’s easy to make mistakes along the way. To avoid setbacks that’ll ultimately cost you time, money, and frustration, you should steer clear of these common mistakes:
Don't assume all windows are standard sizes: Measure each window carefully before purchasing shutters.
Don't forget to pre-drill pilot holes: When working with brick, always pre-drill pilot holes to avoid bent screws, cracked materials, or other damage.
Don't try to install shutters alone: Ask for help when positioning and securing large shutters. This will prevent mistakes and injuries.
Don't drill blindly: Be mindful of possible wires or plumbing behind the wall.
Don't leave drilled holes unsealed: Exposed holes can allow moisture to seep in and cause damage. If you drilled a hole that goes unused, apply exterior-grade caulk around the drilled hole.
If you’re uncomfortable with working on brick-and-mortar, hire a professional masonry company to save yourself the trouble. Brickwork requires skill, and improper drilling can damage or crack your materials, leading to costly brick repairs that could’ve been avoided.
DIY vs. Hiring a Pro
Wrestling with a drill on a Saturday afternoon isn’t everyone’s idea of a good time, but for the hands-on homeowner, installing shutters on brick can be a pretty satisfying DIY project. Doing it yourself helps keep expenses down, as your cost to install exterior shutters comes entirely from the materials. Fixed shutters typically run between $25 to $140 a pair. With about two hours per window—and the right tools and shutter locks—it’s a doable weekend project.
Things change when you’re working with multiple windows or anything above the first floor. Professionals usually charge between $65 to $100 per hour, and their rate tends to be on the higher side for harder-to-reach windows. What you’re paying for isn’t just labor—it’s experience, the right equipment, and a cohesive look across your entire house.
For a smaller job with accessible windows, DIY makes a lot of sense and can save you hundreds (if not thousands) in your budget. When the project grows in size and complexity, hiring a professional is usually the better alternative.
No, it’s not recommended to attach shutters to brick without drilling. Brick is dense and built to last, so adhesives and shortcut methods don’t usually cut it. Even heavy-duty glue struggles to hold up over time—especially against wind, moisture, and temperature changes. Most no-drill options are made for materials like vinyl or wood, not solid masonry. Skipping the drill might seem easier, but it puts your shutters—and anything below them—at risk. For a secure, lasting install, drilling is the way to go. It takes more effort up front, but the result is safer and more reliable.
You should generally drill into the mortar joints when installing shutters on brick. Mortar is softer, which makes drilling easier and puts less strain on your tools. It also lowers the risk of cracking a brick—something that’s a lot harder to fix. Mortar holds fasteners well enough for standard shutters, and if you ever need to patch the holes later, it’s a much simpler job than dealing with damaged brick. Just keep in mind that if your mortar joints are too thin or the hardware calls for brick anchoring, you'll need to check the manufacturer’s recommendations and adjust accordingly.
Brick brings a ton of character to homes, so your shutters should complement them, not compete with them. Raised panel shutters are a popular choice for Colonial or Ranch-style homes. Louvered shutters offer a bit more texture and pair nicely with older or more detailed architecture. As for shutter colors for brick houses, the best colors usually fall in the earthy range—deep browns, warm tans, or soft beiges.
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