DesignerDeco » Shutters http://designerdeco.net Contemporary Lifestyle Guide Thu, 18 Feb 2010 06:46:16 +0000 http://wordpress.org/?v=2.8.1 en hourly 1 Shutters http://designerdeco.net/shutters http://designerdeco.net/shutters#comments Tue, 17 Feb 2009 19:48:08 +0000 DesignerDeco http://contemporati.com/?p=91 Windows and doors are also portals for light and fresh air to come into homes. However, too much bright light and other debris from strong winds can come in and become a nuisance at times. Curtains and screens may do the trick of keeping out too much sun and wind from coming in but can sometimes be not enough for a homeowner. For more protection without completely sealing out light and air, invest in sturdy shutters that fit every window, door, or any opening in your house.

Shutters are primarily used when curtains and screendoors can’t keep out what needs to be kept out. Though primarily used as a means of protecting entrances and portals, shutters can also serve decorative purposes. Bahama shutters are practical ways of filtering out the glare of the sun while still allowing a clear view of what’s happening outside. A similar type of shutter, the colonial shutter, also functions the same way. However, this kind of shutters open and close like doors and are often found on the exterior of the building. Colonial shutters provide ample protection from excessive glare from the sun as well as from weather elements such as storms and hurricanes from entering the house or structure.

Types of shutters

Wood shutters

Early shutters were made of wood. Depending on the type of wood used and on the beating it takes from different weather elements, wooden shutters can last many years. However, due to the organic nature of wood, wooden shutters are often in need of repair and maintenance.

Vinyl shutters

Vinyl shutters on the other hand offered a more economical solution to rotting wooden shutters. Vinyl is a strong material that is waterproof and non-porous. Cleaning them up is also a breeze as vinyl shutters often have smooth surfaces. However, weather elements can also wreck damage to vinyl shutters after long periods of exposure.

Composite shutters

Shutters made of composite materials were also economical alternatives to traditional wooden and even vinyl shutters. Made of PVC or tempered fiberglass, this type of shutters are durable and lightweight and can survive varying weather types.

Exterior shutters

Aside from decorative purposes, shutters are also used for protection. Where Bahama and colonial-style shutters had spaces in between the slats of panels to still allow light and air in, shutters used for protection often totally shield the contents of the building or infrastructure it protects from outside elements including light. For homes and other infrastructures located in areas frequented by storms and hurricanes, exterior shutters made of metal and other sturdy materials offer ideal protection. Rolling and accordion- type shutters offer protection from unwanted visitors as well and are used more often in commercial establishments.

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