The right shutters can add style

Shutters can impart your home with a distinctive style ranging from old world or antebellum to rustic or even tropical. When chosen carefully, shutters accent rather than distract from your structure's best architectural features. Functional shutters lend an air of traditionalism to any home while replacing the need for curtains, but even purely cosmetic options can add color and visual interest.

While solid wood shutters have always been a popular choice, vinyl and wood composites can minimize cost and maintenance. Other materials, such as copper or wrought iron, are also becoming popular. The material and design you choose depends very much on the overall style of your home: the large plantation shutters of old create a much different feel than the small, vinyl designs typical of new subdivisions. Your budget will also likely play a role as size, material and ease of installation can all impact cost.