Why do we have them, love them, and look a little naked without them.

Window Shutters: A Brief history

We sometimes think of outdoor shutters as bookends that match the Windows. They frame the Windows and add character and depth to the front of the house. But if we think about the original purpose of shutters - dating back to ancient Greece - to block out the elements, control light and increase privacy, it's interesting that we still cling to this tradition simply because we like the way it looks. Nowadays, it can be said that many styles of home are "stripped" and have no shutters.

Historically, shutters were placed on the inside of houses, and the popularity of plantation shutters to this day is a testament to their functionality and beauty. Exterior shutters were all the rage in the Victorian era in England, when houses had thinner walls and people could more easily reach out of the window and open or close them as needed. The shutters, often referred to as "blinds," allow airflow and sunlight to enter the room, while the slats are angled to keep out rain.

Now that you know a little about their history and use, let's talk about how to choose the right exterior blinds to decorate your home.

How to choose shutter style? Let your house be your guide.

Shutters should match the style of the house. Even if your shutters are decorative rather than functional, there are three popular styles based on early American architectural design that can add authentic detail to your home.

Board and slat: The simplicity of board and slat shutters makes them suitable for a variety of architectural styles. Their rustic design consists of long vertical slats held in place with horizontal cross-braces, which have historically been used for border dwellings due to their sturdy construction and protective ability. Today, you'll find them in barn homes, beach huts, country bungalows, Tudor homes, mission homes, and cottage homes.

Paneling: Raised paneled shutters, similar in design to cabinets and doors, sync with European, colonial and federal looks. The detailed depth and simple elegance of the raised panel shutters add to the bold decorative look. Still, they were originally intended only for privacy and protection, which is why they have historically only been installed on the first floor of homes. You might see houses today with raised panels and shutters on different floors.

Shutters: Shutters are overlapping arrangements of slats, originally designed to control light, allow air circulation, and exclude rain, and are the most popular style of shutter, often used on the outside to give a traditional look. Blinds and combination blinds (with blinds and panels) are suitable for most home styles.

Select the shutter size. Let your Windows be your guide.

If you want exterior shutters to have a realistic look, make sure they fit the window openings. The size and shape of the shutters should be able to cover the window opening when closed. Functional shutters of the right size fold tightly between the exterior window frames, leaving narrow gaps around the perimeter. Decorative blinds should be maintained in the same proportion. Although it may be common to see tall, narrow shutters next to huge picture Windows, this look lacks authenticity and character.

Choose blinds that are the same size and shape as your Windows. Use arched louvers to frame round Windows and straight shutters to highlight rectangular or square Windows. If the blinds have dividers, align them with the window frame.

To add realism and charm, add hardware, such as with hinges and pivots or blinds stoppers (parts designed to keep blinds open on the house). You can even find these products that are made of vinyl and have a refined iron look.

Shutters construction: Ask yourself how much money and maintenance costs you are prepared to invest.

Traditional wood blinds: These blinds have real charm, but unless they're made of expensive cedar, after a few years you'll find that rotting, cracking and peeling paint is an endless chore - especially if you have a lot of shutters to maintain. Sometimes, you'll see shutters sagging or missing some slats - you can be sure they're made of wood. If the house is continuously in the shade, the wood may be difficult to dry thoroughly after settling, resulting in deterioration. In addition, shrubs and vegetation should be trimmed away from wooden shutters to avoid damage or scratches. Climbing vines clinging to wood can also damage surfaces.

Wood composite blinds: This is a more durable option, made from wood fiber and Marine resin. They are, of course, moisture-proof, preservative and termite-proof. Composite shutters are heavier than wood and have a flat back, so they should not be used in situations where you want them to be operable. The shutters are made from one solid piece, with no space between the slats, and the finished shutters look similar to wood after being painted.

Vinyl exterior blinds: These blinds are made of injection-molded polypropylene components with UV stabilizer and are the most affordable and easy to maintain. The front surface of vinyl shutters is printed with a wood grain grain, and the color permeates the entire material for extended service life. Vinyl shutters have a thin material thickness, hollow back, and become hard after installation. These blinds can be cleaned simply using a garden hose, or if desired, lightly scrubbed with a soft brush and a cleaning solution of common cleaners. In areas where mold is a problem, a small amount of bleach can be added to the solution.

Need some help choosing the right exterior blinds for you?

Choosing styles, colors, and structures can be a little overwhelming. The experts at Baydee Windows will be happy to discuss your ideas and advise you on the next steps. Once you choose the look, the installation process becomes fast and easy. Start with a quote.

Make a choice!

At Baydee Windows, we offer end-to-end fenestration solutions for all your architectural needs.  We provide world-class fittings that assist in enhancing protection and performance using a variety of accessories. Moreover, for a hassle-free and seamless service. Our trained professionals will be with you at every step of the installation process.

For further information about uPVC windows, you can reach out to us on our website www.baydeewindows.com. And avail of an expert consultation today!