how to remove shutter lok fasteners

How to Remove Shutter Lok Fasteners Easily

Whenever you have to repair or replace your shutters, you will most likely come across the need to remove shutter lok fasteners. Whether you are dealing with vinyl or aluminum shutters, the process of removing shutter lok fasteners can be a bit tricky, especially if you don't have the right tools or technique. In this article, we will show you an easy step-by-step guide on how to remove shutter lok fasteners efficiently without damaging your shutters or the surrounding area.

What are Shutter Lok Fasteners?

Shutter lok fasteners are small plastic pieces often used to keep the shutters securely fastened to the wall. They are commonly found in both vinyl and aluminum shutters and are installed by drilling a small hole into the shutter and then fastening the shutter lok through that hole. Shutter lok fasteners are an excellent alternative to screws or other fasteners as they are cheap, quick, and easy to install.

Step-by-Step Guide on How to Remove Shutter Lok Fasteners

1. Gather the Right Tools

Before you can begin removing your shutter lok fasteners, you will need to gather the right tools. These include a drill bit, a pair of pliers, and a flathead screwdriver. Make sure the drill bit is slightly smaller than the shutter lok fastener to avoid damaging the shutter.

2. Disconnect the Shutters

The first step is to disconnect the shutters from each other, especially if they are connecting your mid-span in your installation. You can do this by gently pulling the shutters to the sides to loosen the miters that connect them. Once they have been separated, you can move onto the next step.

3. Remove the Shutter Lok Fasteners

To remove the shutter lok fasteners, you will need to insert the drill bit into the center of the fastener and drill until the fastener is loose. Once the fastener is free, grab the pliers and use them to gently twist and pull out the shutter lok. If the shutter lok is too tight or stuck, you can use the flathead screwdriver to pry it loose carefully.

4. Repair the Shutter

After removing the shutter lok fastener, inspect the hole left behind on the shutter and surrounding surface. If it's damaged or worn, you will need to repair it before installing new fasteners. You can do this by filling the holes with a bonding agent suitable for the material and then sanding the surface smooth.

5. Install new Shutter Lok Fasteners.

The final step of this process is to install the new shutter lok fasteners. To do this, you can use the same technique used to remove the old fasteners. However, make sure that the new fasteners are installed into the repaired holes and not into the same holes left behind by the old fasteners.

Conclusion

Removing shutter lok fasteners can be a bit of a hassle, but with the right tools and technique, it can be done effortlessly without damaging the shutters or surrounding surface. Remember that whenever you encounter these types of fasteners, you should follow the steps shown above for the best possible outcome. With a little patience and the right tools, you can enjoy the results of your shutter repair project in no time.