When it comes to our homes there are certain traditions that just wont die and one of those is exterior window shutters. Heck weve been installing them since the 1700s but boy have things changed and you really should know your modern day options.

Not only do we have plenty of new materials we also have new designs and even new finishes. Yes the traditional louvered wood shutter still remains popular especially on some of our heritage homes but for the modern day home we need modern day options. So what are those options?

1. Vinyl Shutters

Heres a great option for the homeowner thats on a budget. These shutters are inexpensive and last a very long time. In fact many of them come with a 50 year warranty. They require no maintenance except for the occasional wash and they are nice and light

They provide the same traditional look as wood but they are molded so when you get close up you know they are plastic reproductions but from five feet away they look authentic and lets face it how often does anyone get that close to your house.

Youve got all kinds of color choices and you can even give them a coat of paint if you like. You can choose either louvered, raised panel and board, or batten. A great buy that looks great!

2. Composite Shutters

Heres a middle of road price range with so many options it will boggle your brain. You have all kinds of color choices and these are built to be architecturally accurate so that you can carry on traditions of the past with less maintenance and for far less money.

Composite is guaranteed to not split, warp, or rot and because they have a solid backing you dont have to worry about the bees moving in. You can install them functional or faux. You can even get that Bahama shutter style if you like. Great blend here!

3. Fiberglass Shutters

This is the most expensive choice you can make. They too are architecturally built to meet the traditions of the past and when you consider the life expectancy your actual cost really isnt that bad. Youve got over a dozen styles to choose from and as

4. Aluminum Shutters

In recent years this line has grown and evolved with more style choices then previously available and the most color options of all the materials on the market. They are mid range in pricing and you have the option of customizing them specific to your windows.

5. Wood Shutters

Have been around the longest and today they still go strong with many exotic woods now being used to build them. You can choose from mixed louver, raised panel, arched, lazy arched, Bermuda, Bahama, or board and batten. Of course there are plenty of other choices. Wood has the most flexibility in design of all the materials and it is economical to buy. However it does have the highest maintenance requiring you to stain or paint and protect it from the elements with a weather sealant. Theres nothing that says traditional like wood.

No matter what type of exterior window shutter you choose it will increase the curb appeal of your home and the value of it too. So down the road should you decide to sell youll be making money on your small investment and in the mean time you get to enjoy the beauty of your new shutters.