by Kathleen Couch

Created on: June 09, 2008   Last Updated: May 11, 2011

Nothing gives more instant curb appeal for your home, than using shutters. They are usually used to add a contrasting color to the exterior of the home. Shutters first appeared in Ancient Greece. The choice of material was very limited. The choice consisted of stone . or stone. The stone was chipped away to fit the opening.

Today we have many more choices. The seven steps below cover what you need to research, and decide when adding shutters to your home.

STYLES OF EXTERIOR SHUTTERS

• Louvered: The louvered shutter is one made with slats of wood set at a slightly outward angle, and positioned in the center portion of the shutter. The slats can be stationary, or moveable. The moveable slats enhance the shutter's function by allowing some light, ventilation, and the ability to see outside through the shutter but still providing privacy.

• Raised Panel: The raised panel style is a solid piece, with a decorative raised
portion in the center of the shutter.

• Batten and Board: This style is characterized by boards lined up horizontally, and at least two or more boards going across horizontally to hold them together. This style can be with spacing between the boards,which would be referred to as open style. The boards can also belined up with no space between which would be a closed style.

• Bahaman Style: This style could be any of the three styles above. The main
difference is the way the shutter is mounted on the window. It is mounted at the top of the window, with a brace at the bottom that is used to position the shutter out at an angle. It is used mainly for protection from hot sun, and allows for ventilation. This style is easily closed from the inside, and is superior for storm protection.

• Arch Top: Shutters that have an arch top are available in louvered, raised panel, and batten and board. The arch option compliments some window styles, and architectural styles, such as French Country.

FUNCTION OF EXTERIOR SHUTTERS

• Stationary: This refers to shutters that do not actually close over the window.
Stationary shutters are the style most often used in most parts of the country. They are merely for decorative appeal.

• Functional: Shutters that are made to close over the window are functional shutters. These are used in keeping with the historical significance of the house, or to provide more protection from the elements.

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