Adding or updating shutters is one of the easiest ways to transform the look of your home’s exterior and dramatically change its curb appeal. With the wide variety of shutter styles and materials available today, you can choose between a traditional or modern aesthetic to match your home’s architecture. Here’s an in-depth overview of some of the most popular shutter styles to consider for your next home improvement project.
Traditional Shutters
Traditional shutters feature timeless designs that have remained popular for decades thanks to their classic elegance and visual appeal. They come in various materials, from wood to faux wood composites. Here are some of the top traditional shutter options:
Louvered Wood Shutters
The classic louvered wood shutter is one of the most iconic traditional styles. Constructed from durable basswood, poplar, oak, or cedar, these shutters feature horizontal louvers or slats that can be tilted open or closed to regulate light and privacy. Louvered shutters have a timeless look perfect for Craftsman, Colonial, Victorian, and Farmhouse-style homes. They come in a variety of widths to fit any window.
Bahama Shutters
Bahama shutters are wood shutters mounted above windows with hinges on the tops, often featuring a rod to prop them open. They can be propped open to provide shade and airflow while allowing you to see outside. When closed, they provide privacy and protection from storms. Bahama shutters have a casual, Caribbean-inspired look suitable for beach cottages. They work well to shade sun-exposed windows.
Board and Batten Shutters
Board and batten shutters are vertical boards attached to horizontal battens or beams crossing them. This traditional style has a clean, rustic appearance well-suited to Ranch, Cottage, and Cabin style homes. They provide great ventilation when open. Made of wood or faux materials, board and batten shutters can be stained, painted, or left natural.
Paneled Shutters
Paneled shutters feature flat, rectangular panels. They have a minimalist, clean-lined look well-matched to Colonial homes but versatile enough for any architectural style. Paneled shutters allow some indirect light in when closed. Traditional wood paneled shutters can be painted or stained; faux wood and vinyl versions allow any color.
Cutwork Shutters
Cutwork shutters add a touch of ornate charm with their decorative cutout designs along the horizontal or vertical slats. The openings let in filtered light and add visual interest with various shapes. Cutwork shutters pair well with cottage, craftsman, or Victorian homes.
Modern Shutters
For a more contemporary, streamlined look, modern shutter styles use materials like aluminum and vinyl, clean lines, and little or no ornamentation. Here are some go-to modern shutter options:
Faux Wood Shutters
Faux wood vinyl and aluminum shutters realistically mimic the look of real wood shutters while being maintenance-free. Composite materials resist fading, cracking, warping, and termite damage. Faux wood shutters come in wood grain textures and can be painted any color. Dimensions and louver sizes duplicate traditional wood shutters. They’re a great low-maintenance option.
Glass Panel Shutters
Glass panel shutters feature sleek tempered glass inserts within a sturdy aluminum frame. They allow light in while closed and provide unobstructed views when open. Glass panel shutters have an ultra-modern style perfect for Contemporary homes, letting natural light flood rooms.
Aluminum Shutters
Lightweight but durable aluminum is ideal for no-fuss shutters, maintaining smooth, straight, crisp lines over the years. Powder-coated aluminum shutters are available in a rainbow of colors and metallic finishes like bronze and pewter. Aluminum shutters are slim, which complements modern architecture.
Accordion Shutters
Accordion shutters consist of solid vinyl panels connected by hinges that fold and stack to the side. Also called roll-away shutters, they completely open the window area when retracted. Accordion shutters have a clean, unobstructed, contemporary look but provide protection and privacy when closed. They’re easy to operate and control light seamlessly.
Key Considerations in Choosing Shutter Style
- Interior or exterior application: Determine if shutters will be for indoor or outdoor use, which affects material durability needs. Outdoor shutters require materials resistant to weathering.
- Desired aesthetic: – traditional vs. modern: Decide if you want a classic, ornate style like louvered wood or a sleek, contemporary look like aluminum or glass panel shutters. Match the aesthetic to your home’s architecture.
- Architectural style of your home: The shutters should complement the existing look of your home, such as Cape Cod, Colonial, Victorian, etc.
- Light and privacy control needs: Consider how much light control or privacy is desired to choose shutters that service those needs, like louvers that adjust or solid panels.
- Durability and maintenance needs: Factor in material durability and ongoing maintenance requirements if shutters are outdoors or have heavy use. Low-maintenance vinyl and aluminum are good options.
- Budget: Prices range widely based on material, customization, and installation. Get quotes to match options to your budget constraints.
- Window sizes and locations: Measure window dimensions to get properly sized shutters. Also, note sun exposure that may require ventilation or shade
When thoughtfully incorporated, the right shutters can add beauty, value, and functionality to any home. Consult a professional for help selecting optimal materials, placement, and custom designs to achieve your ideal aesthetic within your budget. Investing in shutters well-matched to your home adds curb appeal and comfort.
Frequently Asked Questions on Different Shutter Styles
Consider your home’s architectural style, the size and location of windows, privacy and light control needs, budget, and whether you want a traditional or modern aesthetic, which can help you make an informed decision. Consulting a shutter expert is recommended.
Adding high-quality, visually appealing shutters that fit the home’s architectural style can increase a property’s value. Well-chosen shutters also add functionality like light control.
Consider your home’s architectural style, the size and location of windows, privacy and light control needs, budget, and whether you want a traditional or modern aesthetic, which can help you make an informed decision. Consulting a shutter expert is recommended.
Exterior shutters typically cost $25-$50 per square foot installed. Premium wood materials drive up costs. Interior shutters range from $100-$500 per shutter, depending on materials, customization, size, and installation. Custom shutter quotes provide exact pricing.
Adding high-quality, visually appealing shutters that fit the home’s architectural style can increase a property’s value. Well-chosen shutters also add functionality like light control.
Join in the Trend With Popular Shutter Styles
The options today are abundant, with traditional and modern shutter styles available in various materials. Compare different designs to determine which best fits your home’s architecture and light exposure. Work with an experienced local company that can help you select optimal materials and custom shutter sizes to achieve your aesthetic goals and improve functionality. Investing in the right shutters transforms the look and livability of your home. Contact Tampa Blind Pro today to get started designing the perfect custom shutters uniquely suited to enhance your home’s style!
