Window Treatment Shutters

Window shutters have been used for centuries.

Shutters have been common window features on buildings and homes for centuries. They are used around the world and in many different types of architectural styles---from rustic Italian villas of the old world to modern ranch-style homes of America. Some window shutters have actual functional purposes, while others are installed for purely decorative reasons.

Function

While some exterior window shutters do not actually close or are functional, "working" shutters have many purposes. Most are used to manage the flow of light and air into a building or home, according to All About Shutters. Others prevent outdoor elements, such as insects, animals and inclement weather, from entering the structure. Early shutters were used as protection and security from unwanted guests.

History

The experts at All About Shutters claim that the some of the first shutters were in ancient Greece and were fixed louvers made out of marble. According to an article on CBS News.com, shutters were originally installed on the interior side of windows and used primarily for pest and weather protection. Shutters were not installed on the exterior of windows until the 19th century when glass became the main window material. At that point, many shutters were used as part of the home's interior design and décor.

Types

There are many types of window shutter treatments, with wide varieties in both exterior and interior versions. Exterior shutters are typically considered fixed (non-working) and operable. The main types of operable exterior shutters are storm or hurricane shutters (commonly used in coastal areas) and Bermuda shutters. Exterior shutters may be solid panels or slotted louvers. Fixed shutters are typically painted to complement the house color.

Interior shutters are commonly used in modern interior decoration because of their versatility and style. They typically replace other types of interior window treatments, such as curtains and mini-blinds. Plantation shutters are one of the most popular types of interior window treatments, because they have a classic design and are able to keep light out when closed.

Materials

Window shutters are made from many different types of materials. Most exterior shutters are wood, composite or vinyl. The majority of interior shutters are also made from wood, such as oak, maple, basswood, cedar, pine and others. Faux wood is commonly used in interior shutters to cut costs.

Installation

Both interior and exterior window shutters come in standard and custom sizes. The main key to shutter installation is exact window measurements. Exterior shutters should be carefully measured to ensure they could open and close appropriately. Fixed exterior shutters should be large enough so that they appear to be able to cover the entire window if they were closed. Interior window shutters should be the exact width of the window opening to ensure they can be easily opened and closed.

References

• All About Shutters: The History of Window Shutters
• HGTV: How to Install Plantation Shutters
• CBS News: Dress Up Homes With Shutters