Plantation shutters are a stylish and practical window treatment that can enhance both the look and function of your home. But over time, you may notice a frustrating issue: the louvers (or slats) won’t stay open, sag, or seem too loose or stiff to move. The good news? This is a common problem with a relatively simple fix.

In this guide, we’ll walk you through the reasons your shutters may not be holding their position and show you how to restore their function—without replacing them.

Why Your Plantation Shutters Are Drooping

When plantation shutter louvers stop staying in place, the issue typically boils down to tension—specifically, the tension inside the louver mechanism that controls movement and positioning. This can happen for a few key reasons:

• Wear and Tear Over Time: Like anything with moving parts, plantation shutters can wear down with regular use.

• Changes in Humidity and Temperature: Wood expands and contracts, especially in areas with high moisture or fluctuating temperatures, causing the tension system to loosen or shift.

• Lack of Maintenance: Over time, dust and debris can collect in the shutter mechanism, and screws may naturally back out or loosen.

Thankfully, a quick adjustment is often all you need.

How to Adjust Louver Tension Yourself

In most modern plantation shutters, a small device called a tension screw controls how easily the louvers move and whether they stay in place. Adjusting this screw is an easy DIY fix.

What You’ll Need:

• A Phillips head screwdriver

• A step stool (if your shutters are tall)

Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. Open the Shutter Panel
   Start by swinging open the shutter panel so you can access the edge of the frame.

2. Locate the Tension Screws
   Look for small holes on the side of the shutter panel, usually near the edge. Inside, you’ll find the tension screws—one on each side, and possibly more depending on the height of the panel.

3. Adjust the Screws

   • To tighten the louvers and make them stay open better, turn the screw ¼ turn clockwise.

   • To loosen the louvers (if they’re too stiff to move), turn the screw ¼ turn counterclockwise.

4. Test and Repeat
   Adjust in small increments and test the louvers after each turn. If necessary, repeat the process on both sides of the shutter panel for an even feel.

Tip: Don’t over-tighten the screws, as this could damage the wood or internal mechanism.

No Tension Screws? Alternative Options

Some older or budget shutters may not have tension screws. In this case, a few options exist:

• Friction Strips or Louver Pins: These small components can be added to increase resistance within the tilt mechanism.

• Spring-loaded Louvers: Some models use a spring mechanism that may need to be repaired or replaced.

If your shutters fall into this category, and you’re not comfortable making hardware changes, a shutter repair specialist can help.

When to Call a Professional

While many louver issues can be fixed with a screwdriver and a few minutes of your time, there are situations where professional help may be needed:

• Your shutters are warped, cracked, or structurally damaged.

• The tilt rod (the vertical bar that controls louver movement) is broken or disconnected.

• You’ve tried adjusting the screws, but the problem persists.

In these cases, a qualified technician can repair or replace components without requiring a full shutter replacement.

Preventing Future Issues

To keep your shutters working and looking their best:

• Clean Regularly: Dust buildup can clog moving parts. Wipe shutters down with a dry or slightly damp cloth.

• Check Tension Periodically: Especially in changing seasons, give your shutters a quick test and adjust screws if needed.

• Control Indoor Humidity: Use a dehumidifier in humid climates to minimise wood swelling and contraction.

Final Thoughts

Plantation shutters add value and elegance to your home—but only if they work properly. If your louvers won’t stay open, don’t panic. With a basic understanding of how louver tension works and a simple screwdriver, you can often fix the problem yourself in minutes.

Taking time for occasional maintenance can help your shutters last for years—looking great and working smoothly, just like the day they were installed.