What’s The Best Material for Plantation Shutters?

Plantation shutters match any interior design effortlessly. Are you looking for the best material for your plantation shutters? Nowadays, you can get shutters in more than just faux or wood design.

Plantation shutters are not similar in terms of versatility, ability, and durability. The difference is mainly due to the difference in shutter material. If you want to enjoy all the benefits offered by plantation shutters, you have to choose the best material.

Outdoor window shutters are mostly made using different materials such as aluminum, basswood, and polyvinyl chloride. Choose a durable material that suits your preferences and lifestyle.

A material that is ideal for your home may be a disaster for another home. Also, different rooms may require shutters made using different materials. Read along and see some of the common choices.

• Foamed Synthetics

Compared to exterior wooden shutters, foamed synthetics are more affordable. The material is non-toxic and resistant to fire and water. Foamed synthetics shutters offer reliable insulation. You can, therefore, cut down your energy bill.
These shutters are made using aluminum braces to avoid sagging. They are available in a wide range of designs and colors.

• PVC

PVC shutters have been in the market for years. They are the most cost-effective plantation shutters. These shutters are, however, less durable and weak compared to the other materials.

When exposed to intense UV rays, they develop a yellow hue and later become brittle. PVC is also not easy to clean, especially when aged.

If you’re looking for a material that is moisture and heat resistant, then PVC is the best. PVC window shutters are perfect if your budget is small. The edges of these shutters have sealing caps hence cannot be decorated.

• Medium-density fiber

This material is a mixture of sawdust and glue molded to form the desired shapes. MDF shutters come in different styles like painted finishes, vinyl wrap, and wood. They are fashionable and cost-effective, just like wooden shutters.

Medium-density fiber material does not warp. It can withstand dampness and warping. It also requires low maintenance.

• Alder

Alder wood material perfect for plantation shutters. It is a strong, damage-resistant, and durable hardwood. It can be molded to any design effortlessly.

This wooden shutter material has cherry wood grain. It is easy to stain or paint into the color of your choice.

• Composite Wood

Composite wood material could either be manufactured from several combined wood species or one species. It is sturdy; hence, one of the best options for plantation shutters.
Compared to plain wood shutters, composite wood shutters are more durable and flexible hence a great alternative. The shutters are available in an array of shapes and colors. Choose the one that can enhance the beauty of your property.

• Basswood

Basswood is one of the best materials for plantation shutters, whose popularity has grown worldwide. It is flexible enough and can be styled and designed in different ways.

You can stain or paint basswood shutters to any color you wish. The shutters are also durable and are ideal for all living spaces.

• Cedarwood

Cedarwood is an excellent pick for plantation shutters. It is resistant to cupping, warping, or bowing. The material works well with all paints and stains, thus it can match your home color theme perfectly.

Shutters made using this material comes in different styles and designs. You can also create wide slats without affecting shutters’ stability. Cedar material doesn’t rot and isn’t infested by insects. If you are looking for resilient and beautiful shutters, cedarwood might be what you are looking for.

• Laminated Shutters

These shutters are made from pieces of wood glued together. Just like real wood, laminated shutters are attractive and stable. The material can withstand a variety of creative finishes like wrapping, staining, or painting. The shutters are quite affordable.

• Aluminum Shutters

Aluminum doesn’t corrode hence a popular choice. Since you are installing the aluminum shutter outside, be very careful when making purchases. There are inferior products in the market that resemble aluminum.

Avoid shutters with plastic ends. The plastic end caps will biodegrade and perish with time and render the shutters useless. Aluminum end caps are durable.

Outdoor Shutters

Before choosing a material for your plantation shutters, first, find out whether it is ideal for exterior use. Aluminum window shutters are the best for your exteriors, especially if you live in humid and hot climates. The benefits of aluminum exterior shutters include;

> Aluminum doesn’t warp or crack when exposed to sunlight

> Features storm rated options and offers protection against weather conditions like hurricanes

> They are available in different styles and designs and highly customizable

> They resemble wood shutters but require minimal maintenance

> Easy to control with automatic or manual options when closing and opening

> They are of high quality and affordable

If your location experiences dry climate, exterior wooden shutters may be a great choice. However, wooden shutters cost more compared to vinyl and aluminum. They can cost twice as much as high-quality aluminum shutters.

Choose wood material made from eco-sustainable forests like cedar. Cedar will insulate your house while protecting it from excess cold or heat. Among the different types of wood material, cedar is the best since it doesn’t warp or twist. Other wood options include mahogany, cypress o redwood.

Wooden exterior shutters require top maintenance if you want to get value from them. Paint, stain, and seal regularly.

Vinyl exterior shutters are the least expensive option. They are, however not the best for your exteriors since they are not as durable as aluminum and wooden exterior shutters. Up-front costs may be low, but maintenance and replacement costs add up with time.

All plantation shutters can insulate your home. Poplar and Basswood shutters insulate well as do PVC and aluminum. When fitted correctly, all shutter materials perform equally well.

Conclusion

If you are still stuck and unable to select the best material for your plantation shutters, consider the needs and style of your home. Materials that are resistant to moisture are the best option in a wet climate. If you want something durable pick a material that can last for ages.