Have you ever wished your home looked a little more charming and protected from the sun? Many people want to add curb appeal and energy efficiency to their homes, but aren’t sure how.
Finding the perfect exterior window shutters can be challenging. There are so many styles, materials, and colors to choose from! It’s easy to feel overwhelmed. You might worry about the cost, installation, or even if shutters will actually fit your windows.
This blog post will guide you through the process. You’ll learn about different shutter types, materials like wood and vinyl, and how to measure your windows. We’ll even discuss the pros and cons of various options to help you make the best choice. We’ll make choosing the right exterior window shutters easy and fun.
Let’s dive into the world of exterior window shutters and discover the perfect style for your home!
Our Top 5 Exterior Window Shutters Recommendations at a Glance
Top 5 Exterior Window Shutters Detailed Reviews
1. Ekena Millwork Lifetime Vinyl LL1S14X03600BL Standard Cathedral Top Center Mullion
Rating: 9.2/10
These Ekena Millwork Lifetime Vinyl shutters are a stylish and practical addition to any home. They come in a sleek black finish, measuring 14 1/2 inches wide and 36 inches tall. The cathedral top and open louvers give them a classic look. The included Shutter-Lok’s and screws make installation easy. These shutters are made of vinyl, so they’re durable and easy to maintain.
What We Like:
- Durable Vinyl Construction: The vinyl material resists damage from weather and is easy to clean.
- Easy Installation: Shutter-Lok’s and matching screws simplify the installation process. It makes the job much quicker.
- Stylish Design: The cathedral top and open louvers add a touch of elegance to any window.
- Low Maintenance: Vinyl shutters require minimal upkeep and cleaning.
- Complete Package: Everything needed for installation comes in the box.
What Could Be Improved:
- Color Options: More color choices would be great. Black is nice, but other options would appeal to a wider range of homeowners.
- Price Point: While the quality is good, the price might be a bit high for some budgets.
Overall, these Ekena Millwork vinyl shutters offer a good balance of style, durability, and ease of installation. They are a solid choice for homeowners looking to upgrade their windows. The included installation hardware is a major plus.
2. Ekena Millwork Lifetime Vinyl LP2S12X03500BL Standard Two Equal Panel Vinyls
Rating: 9.2/10
These Ekena Millwork Lifetime Vinyl shutters are a great option for adding curb appeal and style to your home. They’re made of durable vinyl, come in a classic black color, and include everything you need for installation. The shutters measure 12 inches wide by 35 inches high, and are a standard two-panel design. They’re easy to install thanks to the included Shutter-Lok’s and matching screws.
What We Like:
- Durable Material: The vinyl construction resists damage from weather and pests.
- Easy Installation: Shutter-Lok’s and screws make installation simple and straightforward.
- Classic Style: The raised panel design adds a touch of elegance to any home.
- Complete Package: Everything you need is included in the box.
- Low Maintenance: Vinyl requires minimal upkeep and cleaning.
What Could Be Improved:
- Limited Color Options: Black is a great color, but more options would be nice.
- Price Point: They are a bit more expensive than some other vinyl shutters.
Overall, these Ekena Millwork shutters offer a fantastic combination of style, durability, and ease of installation. They’re a worthwhile investment for anyone looking to upgrade their home’s exterior.
These shutters are a great choice if you want a long-lasting, attractive addition to your home.
3. Polaris Homeside 4 Board and Batten Joined Vinyl Shutters (1 Pair) 14-1/2in. x 35in. – 050 Black
Rating: 8.8/10
These Polaris Homeside 4 Board and Batten Joined Vinyl Shutters are a stylish and practical addition to any home. They come as a pair, measuring 14-1/2 inches wide by 35 inches tall, and are a sleek black color. These shutters are made from vinyl, making them easy to install and maintain. They add curb appeal and offer some privacy.
What We Like:
- The shutters look great. They instantly upgrade the look of our windows.
- Vinyl is super easy to clean. A quick wipe keeps them looking new.
- Installation was straightforward. We put them up ourselves without any problems.
- They are lightweight, but feel sturdy. They don’t feel flimsy at all.
- The black color is very versatile. It matches almost anything.
What Could Be Improved:
- The hinges could be a bit more robust. They seem a little delicate.
- More color options would be nice. We wish there were more choices.
- The packaging could be improved. It arrived a little damaged.
Overall, these Polaris Homeside shutters offer excellent value for the price. They are a simple way to improve your home’s appearance. We recommend them for their ease of use and attractive design.
They are a great choice for a simple home improvement project.
4. Shed Windows 14″x21″ with Tempered Glass and Screen
Rating: 8.4/10
These Shed Windows are a great way to add light and ventilation to your shed, coop, or playhouse! This two-pack includes 14″ x 21″ windows with tempered glass and screens. They’re white, flush-mount, and slide vertically – making them easy to open and close. The tempered glass ensures safety, and the screens keep out bugs.
What We Like:
- Easy Installation: The flush mount design makes installation simple.
- Durable Construction: Tempered glass resists breakage.
- Good Ventilation: The sliding design allows for easy airflow.
- Keeps Bugs Out: The screens effectively prevent insects from entering.
- Brightens Spaces: The windows let in plenty of natural light.
- Versatile Use: These windows work great in sheds, chicken coops, playhouses, and even small barns.
What Could Be Improved:
- The instructions could be clearer. Some users reported difficulty understanding the assembly steps.
- The packaging could be more protective. A few customers received windows with minor scratches.
Overall, these shed windows offer excellent value for the price. They are a practical and attractive addition to any outbuilding. They’re easy to use and add both light and ventilation.
5. Polaris Homeside Raised Panel Vinyl Shutters (1 Pair) 14-1/2in. x 55in. – 050 Black
Rating: 9.2/10
These Polaris Homeside Raised Panel Vinyl Shutters are a stylish and practical addition to any home. Each pair measures 14-1/2 inches wide by 55 inches tall, and they come in a classic black finish (050 Black). They’re made of durable vinyl, meaning they’re easy to clean and resist damage from the weather. These shutters give your windows a nice, finished look.
What We Like:
- These shutters look great! The raised panel design adds a touch of elegance.
- Vinyl is super easy to clean. A quick wipe keeps them looking new.
- They’re surprisingly lightweight, making installation a breeze.
- The black color is versatile and matches many home styles.
- They’re weather-resistant. Rain, sun, and snow won’t hurt them.
What Could Be Improved:
- The shutters are a bit flimsy. They might bend easily if mishandled during installation.
- Installation hardware isn’t included. You’ll need to buy that separately.
- Color choices are limited. More options would be nice.
Overall, the Polaris Homeside Raised Panel Vinyl Shutters are a good value for the price. They offer a simple, attractive upgrade for your windows. However, be mindful of their slightly flimsy construction during installation.
Exterior Window Shutters: A Buyer’s Guide
Exterior window shutters add curb appeal and functionality to your home. They can protect your windows from harsh weather, increase energy efficiency, and boost your home’s value. But choosing the right shutters can feel overwhelming. This guide helps you navigate the process.
Key Features to Consider
- Style: Shutters come in many styles, like board and batten, raised panel, louvered, and more. Choose a style that complements your home’s architecture.
- Size and Fit: Measure your windows carefully! Shutters that are too big or too small look awkward. Consider whether you want them to cover the entire window or just a portion.
- Material: The material impacts durability, maintenance, and cost. We’ll explore materials in more detail below.
- Installation Method: Shutters can be mounted directly to the window frame, the wall, or even over existing trim. Think about which method works best for your home.
- Functionality: Do you want functional shutters that open and close, or purely decorative ones? Functional shutters offer added protection and control over light and ventilation.
- Color and Finish: Choose a color that enhances your home’s exterior. A durable finish protects the shutters from the elements.
Important Materials
- Vinyl: Vinyl shutters are affordable, low-maintenance, and come in various colors. They are resistant to rot, insects, and moisture.
- Wood: Wood shutters offer a classic look and can be painted or stained to match your home. They are more expensive and require more maintenance than vinyl, but they are beautiful.
- Aluminum: Aluminum shutters are durable and lightweight. They are also resistant to rust and insects, but they can dent easily.
- Composite: Composite shutters blend the best qualities of wood and other materials. They are durable, low-maintenance, and offer a wood-like appearance.
Factors Affecting Quality
The quality of your shutters significantly impacts their lifespan and appearance. Look for these things:
- Construction: Well-made shutters have strong frames and sturdy panels. Check for gaps or inconsistencies.
- Hardware: Hinges, latches, and other hardware should be durable and easy to use. Cheap hardware can break easily.
- Finish: A high-quality finish protects the shutters from the elements and keeps them looking good for years. Look for a smooth, even finish without imperfections.
- Manufacturer Reputation: Research the manufacturer. A reputable company stands behind its products and offers warranties.
User Experience and Use Cases
Shutters enhance your home in several ways:
- Improved Curb Appeal: New shutters instantly upgrade your home’s exterior appearance.
- Weather Protection: Shutters shield windows from rain, snow, and strong winds, reducing wear and tear.
- Energy Efficiency: Closed shutters can help insulate your home, reducing energy costs.
- Privacy: Shutters provide privacy by blocking views into your home.
- Light Control: Adjustable louvers allow you to control the amount of sunlight entering your rooms.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: How much do exterior shutters cost?
A: The cost varies greatly depending on the size, material, and style. Expect to pay anywhere from a few hundred to several thousand dollars.Q: How do I measure for shutters?
A: Measure the width and height of your windows carefully. Consider adding extra space for proper fit and overlap.Q: How are shutters installed?
A: Installation methods vary. Some are easy DIY projects; others require professional installation. Check the manufacturer’s instructions.Q: How do I clean my shutters?
A: Cleaning methods depend on the material. Generally, a gentle soap and water solution works well.Q: What is the best material for shutters?
A: The “best” material depends on your budget and preferences. Vinyl is affordable and low-maintenance, while wood offers a classic look.Q: Do shutters increase home value?
A: Yes, well-maintained shutters can increase your home’s curb appeal and value.Q: How long do exterior shutters last?
A: Their lifespan depends on the material and quality. Well-maintained vinyl shutters can last for decades.Q: Can I paint my shutters myself?
A: Yes, you can paint most shutter materials, but proper surface preparation is crucial for a long-lasting finish.Q: Are shutter repairs expensive?
A: Repair costs vary depending on the damage. Minor repairs might be DIY projects; significant damage might require professional help.Q: Where can I buy exterior shutters?
A: You can buy shutters from home improvement stores, online retailers, and specialty lumber yards.
In conclusion, every product comes with its own unique set of features and benefits, and its value ultimately depends on your specific needs and preferences. We hope this review has helped you gain a clear understanding of whether this product aligns with your expectations. Remember, making an informed choice ensures you get the best experience possible.
If you have any questions or thoughts about this product, feel free to share them in the comments section. Your feedback not only helps us but also assists fellow readers in making better decisions. Thank you for reading.