Shutter Types

There are dozens of shutter types out there and choosing the perfect one for your home can get a bit overwhelming. Often shutter companies will suggest a type of shutter that compliments the architecture as your home so that the shutters flow with what is already there. Choosing the material of your shutter is almost as important as the design and with nearly as many choices, it helps to have a consultation with a professional shutter company before making a decision.

Board and Batten Shutters

Board and Batten shutters are designed to resemble shutters used in the days of the American frontier. During those days the vertical panels and attached top and bottom horizontal panels were made of whatever materials were available. Today these shutters can be made with wood, vinyl, or a plethora of other supplies.

Bahamas Shutters

Bahamas shutters were traditionally designed to withstand the hurricane like conditions that occur in the region each year. The shutters are distinguished by a certain number of vertical mullions and many tiny horizontal panels that attach the two. These shutters offer a great amount of coverage but can also be quite attractive.

Bermuda Shutters

Bermuda shutters are extremely similar to Bahama style shutters, because both originated in a region plagued with hurricanes and severe storms. Like Bahama shutters, Bermuda shutters feature vertical mullions with horizontal panels running across each section of the shutter. These panels offer great protection from debris and heavy winds or hail.

Cafe Shutters

Cafe shutters are primarily used in interior windows, but are sometimes seen on the exterior. These shutters are distinguished by their ability to let in large amounts of sunlight. This is because most shutters of this variety cover only the bottom half of a window, leaving the top half uncovered. However, these shutters can be made in a variety of sizes.

Cedar Shutters

Cedar shutters are often the best choice for exterior wooden shutters. Because these shutters are resistant to both rain and sun damage maintaining them is a breeze. Additionally cedar shutters can be stained or painted in a variety of colors and the smell and make of the wood repels bugs, leaving you with no worries about damage from that arena.

Colonial Shutters

Colonial shutters offer great protection from the elements when they are closed. Colonial shutters come in a variety of designs and are extremely easy to install. The advantage of choosing a Colonial shutter is that they can be built in nearly any type of material or color. These shutters are extremely popular.

Composite Shutters

Composite shutters are a relatively new innovation and are the best option for exterior shutters. Composite shutters are made of wood and composite materials making them able to withstand the onslaught of wind, rain, and sun for years and years. These shutters are nearly maintenance free and come in a wide range of colors and styles.

Plantation Shutters

Plantation shutters come in a wide variety of styles, but each one is marked with an elegance that is timeless. These shutters are used primarily indoors, and are almost blind like as the shutters let in light without letting the room be overpowered. If you are looking for a striking and classy look, check out arched plantation shutters.

Faux Wood Shutters

Faux wood shutters are usually made with a vinyl poly mix and offer the beauty of wood without the maintenance issues. These shutters generally last for several years longer than traditional shutter as they are able to better withstand the elements. Nearly every kind of shutter style can be produced using faux wood shutters.

Panel Shutters

Panel shutters look exactly as their name denotes. Panel shutters are usually a solid piece of wood or other material with a raised panel pattern on the front of the shutter. Some interior shutters offer the panel in cloth for an interesting design element. Panel shutters are primarily made of wood, but other materials can be used.

Polywood Shutters

Polywood shutters are an interesting mixture of materials created in a lab and traditional wood. Polywood was created specifically for shutters as the material is extremely easy to mold and requires little maintenance. Polywood shutters come in a variety of styles and can be painted. Unlike wooden and vinyl shutters, colored polywood shutters won't fade over time.

Stock Shutters

If you are looking to save a little bit of money, then purchasing stock shutters may be the way to go. These shutters are shipped to you as is and must be assembled. While the good price is an advantage, it is important to order the correct size of shutter and have someone in place to install the stock shutters for you.

Traditional Shutter

Traditional shutters are distinguished by the large horizontal panels on the top and bottom of the shutter as well as the horizontal louvers that run between a vertical panel in the middle of the shutter. These shutters are great for interior use because they can be adjusted to allow as much light as you wish to enter the room.

Vantage Shutters

Vantage shutters are among the best made products out there today. Vantage has been producing shutters for many years and have made several key innovations in the shutter market. From color changing shutters to new designs and material implements, Vantage is the top of the ladder when it comes to shutter production.

Vinyl Shutters

Vinyl shutters are ideal for those looking for low maintenance shutters. Vinyl lasts for many years with very little maintenance, though colors may fade a bit as the years go on. Vinyl shutters can be produced in a wide range of styles and colors and offer protection from storms and the sun.

Wood Window Shutters

Finding wood window shutters that flatter your home can give the exterior of a house a cozy feeling that is very much appreciated on the real estate market. When looking for wood shutters be sure to choose a wood that won't warp and that requires as little maintenance as possible. Cedar is always a popular choice, especially if you are choosing outdoor shutters.