Exterior Shutters

Installing exterior shutters to a window is a quick and easy way to add style and flair to the outside of a home. Both historical and modern houses will benefit from the timeless accent of having exterior shutters. As with all types of home improvements, the quality and longevity of the exterior shutters should be evaluated before you make a purchase.

The exterior window shutters for your home are available in many different shapes and materials. Vinyl or wood shutters are easily available at most home improvement stores, and they can also be a cost effective option. You can also make wooden shutters operable with functional hardware.

Exterior shutters can also be made out of several types of wood. The best wod to use is cedar, as it offers outstanding durablity and resistance to decay. Cedar also provides long service with minimal maintenance in applications involving mud, silk, window sahes, fencing, poles, and even exterior shutters.

The tannin oil in ceder is what really makes it an ideal wood for exterior shutters. It will prevent moisture penetration – and bugs hate it. Keep in mind, exterior shutters shouldn’t be left unprotected. It is however, best to finish the shutters before you install them, so that all surfaces can be fully covered.

The ideal base for exterior shutters is a primer coat of oil base primer that is tinted as close to the final color as possible. The oil will penetrate into the wood, giving better protection. For the best results in painting, you should always consult a professional painting company.

You can mount exterior shutters to your home with a 1/2″ spacer between the back of the panels and the building to allow ventilation. If you aren’t using functional hardware, you should use rust proof screws that sink flush to the wood. Once you have finished the installation, simply paint over the heads of the screws.

By having on opaque finish painted on the wood, it will prevent light rays from penetrating the finish and breaking down wooden fibers of your exterior shutters. If you choose, you can also stain exterior shutters.

Anytime you are staining shutters, you should use finishing products that are designed specifically for exterior use, and be prepared to do proper maintence on your shutters to keep them looking good all the time.

Exterior shutters will add color and style to the outside of your home, making them a purchase you can’t go wrong with. Wooden exterior shutters are the most popular and best to use – making them something you truly must have for your home.