Exterior shutters can give your home a new look. If you’re looking to renovate your home and give it a fresh look, exterior shutters are a must. Not only do they enhance the curb appeal of your home but they can also slightly raise the value of your home.
If you’re looking for exterior shutter options you probably have a lot of questions you’d like to ask. Maybe you’ve come across words like board and batten, or Bahama shutters. Just what are they? What is the difference between the two? And which type would work best for you? To help you on your purchase journey, we’ve put together some common questions related to exterior shutters.
Let’s begin with the basic question: What are exterior shutters?
In the traditional sense, exterior shutters are panels fixed on the exterior side of a window. These panels opened and closed on hinges. These were originally used to control the access of light or air into a room, for privacy, security and protection from the elements. The original design is what we now called functional exterior shutters. With air-conditioning controlling the temperature in most houses, most exterior shutters you see nowadays are non-functional. They are only decorative shutters that enhance the look of your house.
Are exterior shutters out of style or outdated?
While shutters have been used for centuries, they have never really gone out of style. As mentioned earlier, today’s exterior shutters are mainly non-functional which means they cannot be operated.
What types of exterior shutters are there?
Consumers have a wide range of choices when it comes to exterior shutters. You can choose from hundreds of colors and a number of styles. With such a range of choice you’re bound to find something within your budget that offers great value for your home. Here are just a few:
Vinyl shutters – These are made of vinyl and are therefore long-lasting and low-maintenance. They are available in hundreds of different colors and can be made to look like authentic wood. There are several types: louvered, raised panel, open/joined board and batten, country and shaker style.
Wood shutters – These are more expensive than vinyl but if you’re going for the traditional look, wooden shutters are a must! Types available: raised/flat panel, closed/open louvered, open/closed board and batten and Bahama shutters. Red wood or cypress are the most popular woods used in making wood exteriors because of their durability and resistance to environmental elements.
Composite – Made from a combination of wood, plastic, fiber and binding agent, composite wood is stronger and more durable than regular wood making it a popular choice for homeowners who want the traditional look of wood. Composite wood will give you unlimited design choices.
Aluminum shutters – Sturdy, durable and low-maintenance, aluminum shutters are the perfect choice for those looking for more protection and security. They can be powder coated in just about any color in smooth or textured coats.
You’ll find a list of the different styles available for exterior shutters. The images and explanation on this site will help you see the difference between board and batten and Bahama shutters, along with other shutter styles.
Where are exterior shutters placed?
Exterior shutter panels are fixed adjacently at the side of each window. It is not difficult to install these shutters and if you have the right tools at home this can easily be a DIY project.
How to choose exterior shutters?
This will depend on your personal preferences and budget. Vinyl, aluminum and composite wood are budget-friendly choices. While wood may be more expensive and higher maintenance. It also depends on the style you’re looking for.
How much do exterior shutters cost?
According to HomeAdvisors.com, the prices of shutters nation-wide can range from $540 to $1200.
What size exterior shutters do I need?
Shutters are available in standard window sizes and custom sizes. If your window is standard you should be the standard size.
Who installs exterior shutters?
You can install exterior shutters yourself if you’re handy with your tools. Or request a local contractor to do it for you.
How to clean exterior shutters?
Use a brush to remove dirt and debris. Use a garden hose to hose down the shutters and wash the dirt away. Using a mop and a warm water solution (mixed with detergent) clean each shutter. Rinse with a garden hose and wipe dry with a microfiber mop. For wood shutters, use a microfiber mop to wipe dust and dirt. Do not use water as this will dampen the wood causing it to lose its polish.
Where to buy exterior shutters?
Exterior shutters can be purchased at your local hardware store such as Decorative Shutters. You can also look for deals online.
If an order is placed online how many days would it take to receive the shipment?
Online shops like Decorative Shutters are able to deliver to your home free of charge (if orders are above $99) in 7 to 10 business days.
Vinyl VS Wood Shutters – Which Shutters Material Need You ?
Shutters come in multiple varieties determined by their design, color, material and strength. This leaves you with numerous options when shopping for shutters to install in your home.
Aluminum shutters: Affordable option as shutter material
Shutters are an important part of decor these days. It adds aesthetic appeal to any house. If you are looking for ways to revamp your home, adding the right shutters for your home is a good option.
Why You Should Consider Wood Shutters for Your Home
Shutters add the right aesthetic charm to your house. For people who are thinking to renovate their houses, doing it the right way is a challenging task.
