Shutter Composites

For many years, wood has been the only material available for shutters, but shutter composites have become very popular as alternatives to wood. Many materials have been developed to create more durable, cost-effective, and attractive shutters. There are pros and cons to each alternative shutter material, and you should be careful before deciding which one to purchase for your home or building.

Aluminum Shutters

Aluminum shutters provide a reasonably priced alternative to wood. They are very durable but tend to get dings if exposed to hail or similar disturbances. Aluminum is often hidden inside of poly or fiberglass shutters to increase durability. These shutters are available at most home-improvement stores.

Composite Shutters

Composite shutters are made of synthetic and/or organic wood products mixed together to attain the desired effect. Composite shutters are designed to be strong, scratch proof, light, and durable to offer an effective alternative to wood. Composite shutters are often covered in a protective propylene coating.

Exterior Vinyl Window Shutters

An easy and cost-effective way to beautify your home is to purchase exterior vinyl window shutters. Available at most home-improvement stores, these ready made vinyl shutters are an affordable way to add detail and interest to the outside of your home. Exterior vinyl shutters are also very durable and may or may not be functional shutters.

Fiberglass Shutters

Fiberglass shutters are a no-hassle alternative to wood. They will not warp or crack like some other synthetic products. The fiberglass is often mixed with other composite materials to create a more durable product and allow for more styles to be available.

Faux Wood Shutters

Faux wood shutters are an inexpensive and effective way to get the look and feel of real wood. While many stock shutters use faux wood and may be considered of a lower quality, there are high quality faux wood shutters available.

Poly Shutters

Poly shutters are made of a synthetic material and are very durable. They can be hollow or solid, although the hollow shutters tend to be more flimsy than the solid ones. High quality poly shutters hold in more heat than wooden shutters and are far more attractive and durable than vinyl shutters.

Vinyl Window Shutters

Vinyl window shutters may be used outside as either decoration or as functioning shutters. These ready made shutters may also be used inside to beautify and add interest to your home decor. Vinyl window shutters are very durable and available at most home-improvement stores.

Woodlore Shutters

Woodlore shutters are a brand of composite shutters. These name-brand shutters are made of an extremely durable composite wood and are wrapped in a protective coating. Woodlore shutters come in a variety of colors and are scratch resistant, fade resistant, and washable.