Exterior Shutters

You can add style and charm to the outside of your home by simply installing exterior shutters. Exterior shutters will blend well with both contemporary and traditional home styles. Since exterior shutters are an investment in your home, you should evaluate the quality of the product you are considering purchasing carefully.

There are many different materials used to make exterior shutters these days, along with many different styles and shapes. Most home improvement centers sill carry shutters made from vinyl and wood. By adding the proper hardware you can even make wooden shutters functional.

There are many types of wood that are used to make exterior shutters. When looking at durability and decay resistance you can't find a better wood than cedar. Another benefit of cedar is that it is fairly low maintenance, no matter application it is used for.

Cedar is the ideal wood to use for exterior shutters because of the tannin oil that it contains. It naturally repels insects and is moisture resistant. Even the best shutters, however, should not be left unprotected by instead covered with finish prior to installation.

An oil based primer coat that is as close to the final color as possible is your best base for exterior shutter finishing. The oil can penetrate the wood and offer superior protection. A professional painting contractor or company can give you the best advice on achieving the best finishing results.

To allow ventilation you will want to mount your exterior shutters with a 1/2 inch spacer between the back of the shutter and the building. You should use rust proof screws that are sunk flush into the wood if you are not using functional hardware. The heads of the screws can be painted to match the shutter once installation is complete.

You can prevent sunlight from penetrating your wood and breaking down the fibers by using an opaque finish. Exterior shutters can, of course, also be stained.

You should always use finishing products designed specifically for use outdoors when applying them to your exterior shutters. Staining your shutters will require that you perform more maintenance than if you painted them.

You won't regret your purchase of exterior shutters as they will add both style and color to your homes exterior. The most popular type of exterior shutters are made from wood, and will look great on any home.

Home page

Guide To Window Treatments
Your information source for window treatments.

The Window Sill & Window Treatments
Your guide to dressing up window sills.

Where to buy
A trusted store where you can buy window treatments.

Disclaimers
Our contact and privacy information.