Summary: Learn how to adjust louver tension and panel alignment or operate Heritance® Hardwood Shutters correctly. These tips may help resolve common issues with louver movement or panel positioning.
Applies To: Heritance®
Repairs
1. Add Hinge Shims
2. Use Hinge Slots for Alignment
3. Add Washers to the Hinge Pin
4. Use a Tension Pin
5. Install a Louver Tensioner C-Clip
Support
6. Repair Service Eligibility
7. Need More Help?
Add Hinge Shims
If your shutter panel appears off-center or tilted within the frame, you can reposition it by adding hinge shims.
- Locate the hinge leaf that attaches to the frame.
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Insert one or more hinge shims between the hinge leaf and frame.
- Reinstall and tighten screws.
Caution: Do not overtighten, as this may strip the wood.
Need to order hinge shims? Use #KIT4585 at parts.hunterdouglas.com.
Use Hinge Slots for Alignment
If the panel rubs the frame or doesn’t close evenly, you can fine-tune its position using the adjustment slots built into the hinges. Vertical slots on the frame-side hinge allow you to raise or lower the panel, while horizontal slots on the panel-side hinge help shift the panel in or out to improve how it sits in the frame. Slight adjustments at each hinge can correct minor misalignment without needing to reinstall the panel.
- Use vertical slots on the frame-side hinge to move the panel up or down.
- Use horizontal slots on the panel-side hinge to shift the panel in or out.
Make small changes and check panel movement after each adjustment.
Add Washers to the Hinge Pin
If the shutter panel sags slightly and contacts the bottom frame or sill, adding hinge washers can raise it without moving the hinge.
- Remove the hinge pin.
- Insert one or more hinge washers between the top and bottom hinge barrels.
- Replace the pin and check alignment.
Caution: Always confirm smooth panel operation before completing installation.
Need to order hinge washers? Use #KIT4585 at parts.hunterdouglas.com.
Use a Tension Pin
If a louver spins too freely or won’t hold its position, replacing the standard pin with a tension pin will restore proper resistance.
- Remove the loose louver’s standard pin.
- Insert a tension pin, placing the shaft in the louver and the sleeve in the stile.
- Ensure the fit is snug and test louver movement.
Need to order a tension pin? Use #WHP02003 at parts.hunterdouglas.com.
Install a Louver Tensioner C-Clip
If only a few louvers feel loose, you can increase their hold using a C-clip around the existing louver pin.
- Twist and remove a C-clip from the hinge shim.
- Locate a louver near the top or bottom rail.
- Push the C-clip onto the louver pin so it rests between the louver and stile.
- Add a second clip to the opposite end of the same louver if needed.
Tip: Positioning clips near the rail provides the most effective tension increase.
Need to order a louver pin? Use #WHP11000 at parts.hunterdouglas.com.
Need to order a tension pin? Use #WHP02003 at parts.hunterdouglas.com.
Need to order c-clips? Use #KIT4585 at parts.hunterdouglas.com.
Repair Service Eligibility
The repair steps shown in this article, such as adjusting panel alignment or increasing louver tension, can typically be completed in the home.
Other repairs, including replacing louvers, tilt bars, or cufflink connectors, should be performed by a professional to prevent damage to the shutter or frame.
Need More Help?
If you have additional questions, we recommend reaching out to your original dealer or installer for support.
If you’re not sure who installed your window treatments, you can use our Dealer Locator to find a local expert or chat with an agent at help.hunterdouglas.com for further assistance.