by Alison Lightly

Created on: June 09, 2008   Last Updated: July 30, 2011

Looking to go from drab to fab without draining your savings account and spending months on home renovations? Exterior shutters are an excellent, relatively quick and inexpensive way to spruce up the look of your house. Shutters have options ranging from standard to completely customized, sure to appeal to every level of do-it-yourselfer. Here are seven tips to help you choose.

1) HARDWARE & JARGON
One thing you'll notice when purchasing shutters is the abundance of options. Knowing what you're looking at (and looking for) will help out tremendously when it comes to making these calls. Do yourself a favor and learn these terms before you get started.

Fixed Shutters: refers to shutters installed for appearances only. Position of installation is position the shutters remain in permanently.

Functional Shutters: refers to shutters capable of changing from opened to closed positions. Requires specific fixtures for installation.

Hinges: fixtures mounted to allow functional shutters to swing from open to closed positions. Look for sturdy, weatherproof models.

Shutter dogs: fixtures used to securely fasten the shutter in an open position. Also known as "tie-backs." Come in a variety of shapes and sizes to add to existing or new decor.

Shutter bolts: fixtures used to securely fasten functional shutters in a closed position. Especially used to protect house from bad weather.

Shutter caps: fixture that is installed on top of the shutter to help protect it from precipitation and other elements. Look for sturdy, weatherproof models.

2) STYLE SELECTION
This is the one part of the process that's completely up to you. These are going to be semi-permanent fixtures to your house, and you'll be looking at them for years to come. Choose a style that's appealing and practical not just trendy. The last thing you want is to install your shutters only to hate them next summer.

Louvered
Louvered shutters offer a classic, traditional look with contemporary specifications. Available in fixed and functional designs, with or without tilt rods, and usually come with horizontal or vertical louver options. This is a "safe" and versatile choice with many options within the style.

Paneled
Paneled shutters are the most common style, and provide a conventional, colonial look. Offered in varieties from standard raised panels to recessed and flattened, paneled shutters come with that traditional look and a customized flair.

Board & Batten
Originally used on barns and sheds, these sturdy-looking

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