Window shutters are designed to protect your windows against extreme weather conditions, but also fulfill a decorative role, and can add to the overall aesthetic of a room. The two most common types of shutters are wood and vinyl shutters. Though both types of shutters are similar in their function, their material differences lend each variant a distinctive set of advantages and disadvantages. Understanding the differences between wood and vinyl shutters can help you choose the one that best fits your needs.
Wood Shutters
Wood shutters provide a natural aesthetic to your window. One of the main draws of having wooden shutters installed on your windows is the fact that wood can be stained or painted very easily, which means that you can customize the aesthetic very easily, and change the appearance of your shutters without replacing the shutters entirely. Additionally, wood is a very durable material and is able to withstand a great deal of physical trauma without cracking, breaking, or otherwise becoming damaged.
However, wooden shutters are susceptible to rotting and mold growth over time due to water exposure and must be constantly painted and sealed to ensure that they do not begin to degrade. This increases the maintenance costs and time commitment to your shutters over time, especially for climates with a high degree of humidity.
Vinyl Shutters
Vinyl shutters are an economical choice for most homeowners. Vinyl shutters tend to be less expensive than wooden shutters (depending on the type of wood you compare them to) and are also much more lightweight, which makes the installation process easier, saving you money on labor. Additionally, vinyl shutters are immune to rot and pest infestations which can plague wooden shutters. This helps reduce the amount of maintenance that you'll have to do on your shutters and can extend their lifespan. It is also important to note that vinyl is not an absorbent material like wood is, which means that vinyl shutters are much easier to clean. A mixture of warm water and detergent is all that you need to remove caked-on dirt.
However, vinyl shutters cannot be repainted or stained like wooden shutters can, which can limit your aesthetic choices. Furthermore, vinyl as a material is not as durable as wood is, and can be easily broken by debris flung around in a storm. This can represent a significant cost, as the entire shutter will have to be replaced. To learn more about your options for shutters, check out a company like Cover Up Designs.
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