There are specific sounds that signals the start of the French summer: One of them, the clack-clack of wooden shutters—our beloved volets—being thrown open to let in the morning light in!
There’s a quiet satisfaction in seeing a row of freshly painted shutters catching the light, knowing the house is prête pour l'été (ready for summer)
As a husband-and-wife team managing properties here in Dordogne, we’ve learned that these shutters are the hardest working part of a French house. They endure the baking sun, the harsh winter storms, and the damp rains of spring. By the time March rolls around, they usually need a little mise à neuf (refresh) to get them ready for the first holiday guests of the season.
Why the "Pre-Season" Window Refresh Matters!
In property management, timing is everything, because before we know it summer season is here. So we prioritise shutter restoration during springtime for two practical reasons:
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The "Just Right" Weather: Paint and wood stain need mild temperatures to cure. If it’s too cold, it won't dry; if it’s the heat of July, the paint will "griller" (cook/blister) and crack.
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The Guest Experience: There is nothing more frustrating for a holiday guest than a shutter that sticks or leaves flakes of paint on their hands. We want that first bienvenue to be perfect !
A Two-Person Approach: Main dans la Main
Working as a duo—main dans la main (hand in hand)—allows us to be thorough in a way that’s hard to manage alone. While one of us handles the gros œuvre (the heavy prep)—removing the hardware and sanding down the weathered edges—the other focuses on the details, ensuring the finish is smooth!
It’s about more than just a color change; it’s about entretien (maintenance). We’re looking for the small things: a loose hinge that might rattle in the wind, or a spot of wood rot that needs treating before it spreads further...
Here we have our Spring Checklist ( one of many!)
If you’re visiting your property this spring to do some DIY, here is our top tips of what to look for:
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Hardware Health: Check the the locking bars. A quick grease now prevents a squeak that could keep a guest awake in June.
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The Sanding Secret: You don't always need to strip to bare wood, but a light ponçage is essential for the new coat to grip.
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Microporous Paints: We always recommend paints that let the wood breathe. In our climate, sealing wood too tightly can actually cause it to rot from the inside out.
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The Final Touch: Cleaning the stone sills after the shutters are re-hung makes the whole façade pop.
Protecting the French Aesthetic
Whether it’s the classic "Provence Green" or a deep "Basque Red," shutters define the caractère of your home. Taking the time to restore them properly doesn't just protect the wood—it honors the heritage of the region so be sure to do your homework, and if you live near a historic site, be sure to ask for permission!
We’re currently making our way through our spring rounds, getting houses tucked away in the hills ready for a busy 2026.
There’s a quiet satisfaction in seeing a row of freshly painted shutters catching the light, knowing the house is prête pour l'été (ready for summer)
