by Kimberley Heit

Created on: June 09, 2008   Last Updated: December 28, 2008

Shutters provide excellent control over the privacy, light and air circulation in your home, all whilst protecting your windows. They impart southern charm and can add to the resale value of your home. If you are considering purchasing shutters then the following seven categories provide tips and advice.

1. SHUTTER STYLES:

External shutters fall under two main categories functional and non-functional. Functional shutters open and close, they protect the home, control light and air circulation. Non-functional shutters are fixed in place and are for appearance only.

There are five main styles of shutters which can be functional:

Louvered

These shutters have moving louver parts which give great control over light, privacy and air circulation. These louvers are a good choice in warm/tropical climates because you can let breeze in whilst angling them to keep the heat of the sun out.

Raised-panel

These shutters are made of one solid piece which features decorative raised sections. Solid panels are a good choice for protection from harsh storms, however they do not offer the control over light, privacy and air circulation that louvered styles do.

Board and batten

These shutters consist of a series of boards running vertically much like a wooden fence. You have a choice between joined or spaced boards. This style is perfect for the country look and they are generally good for storm protection.

Bahama

Bahama shutters are the best choice for people who live in an area affected by severe weather. These shutters are made from one solid panel which is hinged at the top. If a storm hits you simply release the side arms and the shutter will drop flat against your wall, then you screw the shutter into place at the bottom.

Combination

If you are having trouble deciding between exterior protection and functionality there is a middle ground. Combination shutters feature different shutter styles within the one shutter. For example one section could be louvered, but another might be raised panel.

2. SHUTTER FABRICATION

Today shutters are made from any array of materials from wood through to vinyl or plastic. There are however many benefits to sticking to wood shutters:

-Wood shutters provide great heating, cooling and sound insulation.

-They can be custom made to fit any size/shape window and can be painted/stained any colour.

-They endure weather well. -They are strong, but lightweight.

3. WOOD TYPES:

There are many different types of wood to choose from. Your selection should not only be related

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