Most people, when they think of exterior window shutters, they think of the typically ‘classic’ French style Louvre, with small brightly colored slats, and traditionally fashioned in wood. But today, this is far from the only choice available, although still highly popular.

These whimsical shutters have been designed with timeless style, practical designs as well as shutters that are easy to clean and difficult to stain. Apart from that, exterior window shutters are made from many different materials including a wide variety of wood, plastics, polymers, vinyls and even aluminum metal.

Exterior shutters existed far before colonial America. The history of shutters is thought to extend back to ancient Greece. The wood exterior shutter was adopted in America as a means to effectively control light, provide privacy, and protect from intruders. In the modern era, the need for exterior shutters has diminished with the wide-spread use of window screens, air conditioners, and interior window coverings.

Today, the exterior shutter is primarily used to enhance the outside attractiveness of a building.

Essentially, exterior shutters are made from cedar wood due to its properties of high resistance to decay and long-term durability. The tannin found naturally in cedar wood helps to prevent penetration of moisture and acts as a natural repellant against bugs. Yet, there is only so much you can do with wood, and if buyers are reluctant to stick to just brown-colored shutters for their windows, they can also consider non-wood shutters.

Colonial style exterior shutters consist of two separate shutter panels that open towards both sides of the window. These types of shutter are of historical value with panels that can be raised, flattened or louvered. It is essential to remember that Colonial shutters require space for the panels to be outstretched when occupants want the shutters opened.

On the other hand, Bahama style shutters open upwards to the top of the window and are held up with supporting arms. They are normally found in white and are made from stronger materials such as aluminum and fiberglass to withstand natural elements.

If you are seeking for style and color variation in your exterior window shutters, then Vinyl shutters and Composite shutters may just be the choice for you. These shutters are available in louvers, raised or flat panels. Finally, shoppers are spoilt for choice with various panel styles and colors