Exterior Shutters – A Basic Guide

Exterior shutters add beauty and value to your home. Shopping for shutters can be time consuming; however, the process can be made easier by doing research online first. Let’s start with a quick introduction to several popular type of house shutters.

Louvered shutters can functional as well as decorative and help to provide protection from storms and hurricanes. The traditional style has louvers divided by a mullion crossing at the center of the shutter panel; an alternative style has a faux tilt rod mounted in the center of the shutter. Louvered shutters are the most common American outdoor shutter and are available in standard single-wide and double-wide panels.

Board and batten exterior shutters are modeled on shutters found in rustic country homes. They are available with anywhere from two to eight vertical boards. Cross boards may be placed in a x-pattern or z-pattern as is common on barns or country homes. These shutters can be made with an arched top, making them ideal for framing arched windows.

Raised panel shutters consist of raised panel boards between the stiles and rails. This popular style has a more refined look than board and batten and is available in one-, two- or three-panel configurations.

Bahama shutters, unlike other shutter styles, are hinged at the top with only one shutter per window, making this type of shutter extremely wide. They can be opened slightly for ventilation or slightly more for shade. Since they can be closed and fastened in the event of an approaching storm, they can serve as functional hurricane shutters. A Bahama shutter can protect an entire bank of windows and can therefore also act as an awning.

Exterior shutters can be made from wood, composite wood, vinyl, fiberglass and aluminum. Depending on your budget, you can buy standard or custom size shutters; you may also want to add window boxes with flowers for an extra decorative touch. Popular manufacturers include Atlantic, Vantage and Timberlane. Timberlane’s website features a style selector to help you visualize and choose the right shutter style for your home. Places to shop include Lowes, Home Depot and Menards. Be sure to do your research online first prior to making any purchase as you may be able to find discounts. Exterior shutters are a worthwhile investment regardless of the style you choose.