Mold-Resistant Shutters: Prevention and Remediation Tips

Damp conditions caused by weather, leaks or condensation can lead to mold growth on interior and exterior shutters. Mold spores circulate through indoor air and aggravate allergies and asthma. Follow these tips to choose mold-resistant shutter materials, discourage growth and remove existing mold.

Select Mold-Resistant Materials

Certain shutter materials discourage mold growth better than others:

PVC and Vinyl Shutters – Impervious to moisture, won’t swell or warp
Aluminum Shutters – Inhibits mold and withstands dampness
Teak Wood Shutters – Contains natural oils that resist mold
Cedar Shutters – Its natural thujaplicins deter mold
High-Density Composite Wood – Doesn’t absorb moisture like natural wood
Bamboo Shutters – Antifungal properties prevent mold

Avoid natural woods like pine, oak and poplar that provide food for mold.

Apply Mold-Blocking Paints and Primers

Specialty mold-resistant primers and paints protect wood shutters from mold growth:

Zinsser Mold Killing Primer – Blocks stains and neutralizes mold
Fiberlock Shockwave – Biocidal coating for prevention
KILZ Max Primer – High-hiding mildewcide formula
Conco Pro Acrylic – Natural effervescence deters mold
Behr Premium Plus – Advanced mildew-resistant protection

Follow with a matching topcoat for full protection.

Use Mold-Blocking Stains and Finishes

Wood stains with antifungal ingredients reduce the chance of mold:

Cuprinol Mold & Mildew Resistant Stain
Defy Extreme Exterior Clear Coat
Messmers UV Plus for Mold Prevention
Superdeck Solid Color Stains with MoldCare
Flood Pro Series Waterproofing Wood Finish

Refresh protection every 1-2 years.

Discourage Moisture Buildup

Since mold requires moisture to grow, discourage condensation with these tactics:

Ensure adequate attic/roof ventilation to prevent condensation on exterior shutters
Run bath fans, kitchen vents and A/Cs to lower interior humidity
Avoid overflowing humidifiers
Quickly fix roof and plumbing leaks
Install moisture barrier on exterior walls behind shutters
Caulk around windows and shutters to seal air leaks

Increase Sunlight Exposure

Open shutters during the day and close at night. Sunlight exposure helps dry out dampness while closed shutters trap condensation. Keep exterior shutters open on dry days.

Improve Air Circulation

Stagnant air and dead spots foster hidden mold. Position small fans to keep air circulating around problem windows. Open windows when possible.

Dehumidify Shutters

Portable dehumidifiers prevent musty odors and excess moisture on shutters and windows. Continuous low-level dehumidification keeps humidity ideal between 30-50% to hinder mold.

Quickly Address Water Intrusions

Promptly fix roof and pipe leaks. Thoroughly dry any water damaged areas within 24-48 hours using fans. Water allows mold colonies to quickly establish and spread.

Routinely Clean and Disinfect

Regular cleaning with diluted bleach, vinegar, tea tree oil or other antimicrobials kills and removes mold spores before they multiply.

Remove Existing Mold Growth

For minor growth, mix 1 cup bleach in 1 gallon of water and scrub affected areas. Lightly sand stubborn growth before reapplying mold-resistant finishes. Replace seriously damaged shutters.

Choosing resistant materials combined with active moisture control provides the best defense against problematic mold on shutters. Immediately address any new mold growth before it gets out of hand.