7 Types of Exterior Window Shutters for Your Home

Whether you just bought a new house and are considering installing window shutters or you are renovating your home and need to freshen up the look of your windows, it is important to know what options are available. There are seven major window shutter styles that you should be aware of before making your final decision.

Louvered

This is the most common style among window shutters. They are made up of overlapping uniform slats of wood set into a frame, you can choose the size of the slats to your preference. Wider slats give a more contemporary look, while thinner slats can give your house a look of sophistication. This style has been very popular when working with various exterior styles for architecture in various parts of the world. It’s important to choose a colour that compliments the overall look of your house. Use bold colours to make a statement or have them stained for a more natural look.  

Raised Panel

These types of window shutters are very decorative and are not commonly used for functionality. The raised panel looks a lot like most wooden doors with raised panels on the inside of a frame. Most home designers recommend that raised panels be paired with a window box, where you can grow different plants and flowers. These window shutters do a great job at invoking a country-chic style to the exterior of a home.

Board and Batten

The third type of exterior window shutter on our list. This style features an arch or square top. The arched top style pairs well with windows with a similar curved top portion, this can give the house a very classic feel. Individual boards are attached to one another side by side and are joined together with shorter crosspieces or battens. This particular style can be seen on older buildings that emphasize the architecture of the exterior areas.

Plantation

Plantation shutters can give your home that desired southern look. This style is popular for its low maintenance and classy appearance. These shutters have slatted blinds that can be made of wood or other materials, they work just like blinds. Functional plantation shutters are a great way to go because the wide louvers can be closed to protect you from any storms that may come your way. In addition to protecting you from the elements, they can be opened and adjusted to let in the breeze. These shutters are very in demand and are considered very desirable by many home designers because the look alone can add considerable value to your home.

Cut out Shutters

Of all the different styles, the cut out shutter can reflect your personality the most depending on what design you choose. Cut out shutters were made popular in the 1920’s and they can display different shapes and designs that are cut out of the panel. The nice thing about this shutter is that you can customize it with whatever shapes you like; stars, hearts, anchors, anything goes really. You can personalize these shutters however you like, but they are usually not functional and are mostly for decoration.  

Scandinavian

These shutters are popular for their functionality, they can be closed to keep out any blizzards and snowstorms often experienced in north regions of Europe. Original Scandinavian shutters feature patterns and designs that are reflective of their culture. The panels are sturdy and solid, joined by a board and batten design, they can usually be seen with cut outs and bright colours.

Combination

This is basically a combination of two or more shutter styles. There are a multitude of combinations that you can create, whatever best resonates with your personal style and compliments your home is what you should lean towards. Possible combinations include, but are not limited to half louvered accompanied with a cut-out combo or half raised panel and half louvered, etc. This can give your home a unique look that really reflects your style.

Overall, window shutters can add a unique element to your home. You can have them customized in a way that suits your style. California Shutters carries an extensive range of window shutters that are fully customizable. Contact us today to find the perfect window shutter for your home!