Of all the options for interior window shutters, wooden shutters impart a special warmth and old-world character. The rich patina and natural beauty of real wood never goes out of style. Installing wooden shutters can add charm to your home while also providing privacy, light control and a cozy ambiance.
Benefits of Wooden Shutters
Wooden shutters offer advantages beyond just attractive aesthetics:
- Natural beauty – The wood grain, colors and textures add organic interest. Real wood yields greater authenticity than faux wood.
- Durability – Properly finished wood shutters are built to last for decades. Hardwoods like poplar and basswood resist warping.
- Light control – Adjustable wooden shutter slats let you modulate incoming daylight. Open or close them to your desired level of privacy.
- Insulation – Wood provides a natural insulating layer between window glass and room. This can reduce energy costs.
- Noise dampening – Solid wood shutters help absorb sound from outside, creating a quieter indoor sanctuary.
- Added value – Wooden shutters boost a home’s aesthetics and functionality, which translates into increased resale value.
Wood Shutter Styles
You can find wooden shutters in diverse styles to match any home’s architecture and decor. Consider what design will best complement your existing trimwork and furnishings:
- Raised panel – Panels of wood framed by trademark ridges and grooves for traditional elegant look. Stained finishes often used.
- Shaker – Simple, smooth paneling in a flat square-edged design. Usually painted white or black.
- Louvered – Signature horizontally slatted style that adjusts for privacy and light control. Available stained or painted.
- Board and batten – Vertical boards anchored by horizontal strips for rustic cottage charm. Great in casual settings.
- Arched – Graceful arched wooden shutters that make a statement in Craftsman, Cape Cod or cottage homes.
- Tier on tier – Stacked rows of graduated shutters inspired by plantation-style. Provides striking architectural detail.
- Cafe – Bi-folding wooden shutters that open café-style for full window access. Used mostly for bottom windows.
Materials for Wood Shutters
Wooden shutters come in a variety of natural hardwoods, each with their own characteristics:
- Basswood – Affordable soft hardwood that takes stain well. Durable and warp-resistant.
- Poplar – Versatile hardwood suitable for staining or painting. Resists shrinking and swelling.
- Oak – Beautiful wooden texture and prominent grain. Durable but heavy. Needs staining or frequent refinishing.
- Cedar – Has natural oils that resist moisture, decay and insects. Provides a reddish tint.
- Cypress – Has good moisture resistance. Features pretty grain patterns in shades of yellow/brown.
- Pine – Classic knotty pine provides rustic charm but needs frequent staining or sealing to prevent rot.
- Teak – Exotic and durable tropical hardwood. Rich color and natural oil content. More costly.
Caring for Wooden Shutters
Follow these tips to help your wooden shutters look their best for years:
- Use high quality exterior-grade finishes like stains, paints or oils to protect the wood from moisture and UV damage. Re-coat as needed.
- Dust lightly with a soft cloth. Avoid harsh chemical cleaners. Use mild soap and water for stubborn dirt.
- Install wooden shutters properly so they hang squarely and operate smoothly without dragging or sagging over time.
- Keep wood away from direct sunlight when possible to avoid fading, cracking or warping. Close shutters when not in use.
- Repair minor nicks or scratches with finish touch up products. Sand and refinish extensively damaged areas.
With the unmatched warmth, detail and decorative possibilities they offer, it’s easy to see why wooden shutters remain popular interior accents. They bring rich traditional ambiance to both modern and classic homes.
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