Choosing the Right Shutter

While an almost endless selection of shutters means you'll certainly find what you're looking for.  It also means you'll have your hands full when making your decision. What style, what size, and then, what details?

To ensure you make a sound decision, we encourage arming yourself with information. Learning the ins and outs of different shutter styles will aid you in your quest for the perfect shutter. And as you're selecting the right shutter for your home, you can rest easy knowing that you've already made the right choice in choosing Southern Shutter Company.

How to make the right decision.

There are three basic elements to consider when determining which wood shutters fit your needs and your preferences: shutters, hardware and installation. Each factor is equally important to the success of your shutter project.

What kind do you want?

Louvers or Panels: In the past many followed "rules" that specified which style to put where on a home (panels on the first floor, louvers on everywhere else), but today it's more a matter of personal taste.

                                           

Board and Batten: This style offers a homey, rural-influenced look and is often seen on one-story houses.

Bahama Shutters: Hinged at the top, and propped open at the bottom with a Push Rod, Bahama shutters have a uniquely tropical aesthetic. Originally created for use in hot, humid locales, keeping them open allows circulation with outdoor air when desired.

 
What size do you need?

No matter which of the above you settle on, specifying the accurate size for your windows is integral. For custom shutters, like those from Southern Shutter Company, correct measurements are a must. Even if your shutters will not actually open and close, make sure you measure from where the shutter would sit in the opening - usually the window casing or brick molding, not the actual opening.

Shutters should mirror image the window. The middle rail should be offset to the sash line.

What else do you need to think about?

The wood: The use of high-quality, decay-resistant wood for our shutters is as important as anything else we do. By utilizing thick-cut, vertical grained wood, Southern Shutter Company creates stronger shutters that last longer. Below are only a few of the wood species used by Southern Shutter:

Western Red Cedar	Spanish Cedar	Cypress	Mahogany

The joints: Our use of "pegged" mortise and tenon joints gives our rails and stiles strength.

Protection: To safeguard your shutter investment, make sure it has capping. Our copper capping adds elegance to your shutters.

The hardware on your shutters plays a crucial role in their appearance. Before considering the options, you have to make a few basic decisions first. Will your shutters be functional? What style is your house? How much can you spend on shutters and shutter hardware?

Next, consider materials. Properly made and maintained shutter hardware can last a lifetime. For certain climates though, certain materials are necessary for this longevity. We strongly recommend stainless steel hardware for coastal areas and any place where high humidity and rust are a threat.

Finally, choose the style. The number of hardware styles is practically limitless, and your choice should be based predominantly on what you like. You'll have to pick out hinges and tie-backs. Depending on your desired overall look, you might also choose to include locks, pull rings and bullet catches.

You can select the right shutter style for your house, complementary hardware and still end up unhappy if you fail to hire a reliable person for your shutter installation, so carefully choosing your installer is key. But there are also a few steps you can take to help ensure the installation goes smoothly.

First, check and see if your home has suitable mounting surfaces for your shutters, and make sure your window frames don't have any decaying wood. Next, remember to take precise measurements of every window.  Feel free to contact us if you have questions about measurements and how to go about taking them.