Window Shutters

Window shutters on most homes today are non-functioning, though in some areas of the country, fully functioning exterior shutters are still the norm.

Traditional non-functioning exterior window shutters come in three typical styles. Louvered shutters have been popular for years, and are typically the least expensive of the three types of exterior decorative shutters. Raised panel shutters have become more and more popular over the last 10 years and are usually slightly more expensive than the louvered variety. Finally, board and batten shutters, which were popular many years ago, have recently become the trendiest choice in shutters for today. Board and batten shutters are currently the most expensive choice. Today’s decorative shutters are available in vinyl, wood and fiberglass. Vinyl shutters are the most popular choice today. They are maintenance free, but can’t be repainted if you decide you want a different color. For this reason, wooden shutters remain popular. Though they do require maintenance, it’s quick and easy to change the look of your home by simply repainting your shutters.

Many people also choose interior window shutters for their homes. Plantation shutters, in particular, have become very popular in recent years. Interior shutters are fully functioning, and are often used in place of window treatments. They are an excellent choice for privacy and design, and when closed, keep out the sun quite well. Many people choose to place shutters on the lower half of their windows and choose a decorative element, like valances, for the top half of the window.

In many areas of the country where wind and storms are a problem, many people still rely on functioning shutters for a combination of beauty and protection. In some cases, these shutters must be custom made, as a perfect fit is critical to them being able to provide weather protection. Measuring a home for functioning shutters is quite different than measuring for decorative shutters, as the decorative variety doesn’t actually have to be wide enough to close over the windows. Materials are very important in functioning shutters, too, since they must be sturdy enough to protect from the weather.

If you’re interested in replacing the shutters on your home, there are many websites that will sell shutters at a discount to the do it yourself homeowner. You can often save quite a bit of money by purchasing discount shutters and painting them and hanging them yourself.

Shutters are a common decorative accessory in many areas of the country. You have lots of options for updating your shutters today!