Top 5 Factors for Choosing Window Shutters

Your windows are responsible for 25 to 30 percent of your home’s heat gain or loss. One way to reduce your energy costs is to add energy-efficient shutters to your windows.

Window shutters will provide many benefits to any part of your home. Here are some factors to consider when choosing window shutters.

1. Find Quality Shutters

Exterior window shutters are an investment that will add value to your home. The materials used and the manufacturer are two main factors to consider when looking for quality shutters.

Shutters are made from wood, composite wood, vinyl, and metal. Durability, maintenance requirements, and the option to have colored shutters are considerations when choosing your shutter materials.

Know where your shutters are manufactured and look at product reviews. If you select wooden window shutters, look into the curing process, as you don’t want shutters that will warp. The finish of your shutters may range from a simple coat of paint to a more durable polypropylene coating. 

2. Know Your Why

Before you choose shutters for your home, it’s essential to understand your expectations for this product. Many homeowners install interior window shutters to control the sun and protect their interior from damaging UV rays.

Shutters can cut down on your energy bills by keeping your home cooler in the summer and warmer in the winter. You may want window treatments to provide privacy or add a touch of classic styling to your home. Here’s an excellent summary of the main benefits of a shutter installation to help you understand your why.

3. Get the Best Installer

When you have your shutters installed, be sure to check the installer’s qualifications before you hire them. A factory-certified installer will ensure that the frames are square and perfectly true. If the frame is off-center slightly, your shutter hinges will pinch, and the stress may warp or crack the shutter panel.

This attention to detail is key to long-lasting shutters. The manufacturer requires a professional installation to validate the warranty. 

4. Louver Size Matters

There are many kinds of shutters to choose from, and you may get caught up in comparing materials or pricing. One other factor is the size of the louver. The widths range from around 2 1/2 inches to 4 1/2 inches. Each one suits a particular style.

Wider louvers work as a window shutter for a contemporary home. Narrow louvers are more traditional. Your choice also depends on the size of your windows. A wide louver won’t work well on a small window.

5. Lowest Price May Not Equal Value

Your shutters are an investment in your home, and you’ll want to get the best quality for a reasonable price. You will soon understand that low-quality shutters are available for a lower cost if you get several different quotes. When you know the price for a higher quality window treatment, you can begin to make comparisons that make sense from a value perspective. 

Window Shutters

The window shutters you choose will come down to a series of trade-offs between their appearance and functionality. When you take a bit of time to research shutter options, you’ll be able to make a more informed decision. 

Did you find this article helped you decide to make a long-term investment in quality shutters? If so, check our other helpful home renovation articles to discover additional ways to create a beautiful home.