Exterior Vinyl vs. Wood Shutters

Initially, wood exterior shutters and vinyl products seem to compete for the same market space. If you compare exterior wood shutters to vinyl shutters to see similarities and differences, they are actually adapted for different types of homes or buildings, and are rarely both sought by an individual homeowner.

Wood Shutters

Historically, the outdoor window coverings market has been dominated by wood exterior shutters. For generations, craftsmen constructed solid houses using reliable natural materials. Functional exterior wooden shutters have been used internationally to protect homes from outside elements like sun, rain, snow, or the occasional peeping tom. They are typically painted to match other features on the façade and are installed with hinges to swing out to the sides of the window opening. ShutterLand’s exterior wooden shutters are made to size from solid kiln dried woods. These custom exterior shutters are time tested and are currently installed on homes in every state in America.

Vinyl Shutters

When you compare exterior shutters, vinyl shutters are generally regarded as a less authentic, yet less expensive option. Most vinyl shutters have a molded wood grain surface to provide texture and depth. However, the synthetic material still does have a plastic-like appearance when inspected closely. Exterior vinyl shutters are constructed without a back, so they are essentially a shell that derives strength from the structure to which they are attached. Vinyl shutters are not suitable for hinging and cannot be functional. They are best used as a cosmetic architectural accent on buildings where exterior wooden shutters are not necessary or economically feasible.

To determine if wood shutters or vinyl shutters are better, compare side-by-side to reveal their obvious distinctions. Solid wood shutters are most appropriate on houses with natural siding and and historic homes, while vinyl shutters blend well with siding of similar material.

ShutterLand is proud to offer only the highest quality solid wood shutters. Our shutters are American made using time-tested techniques and thoughtfully designed for the most appealing look and best function. Our exterior wooden shutters are produced to not only look good, but to withstand the test of time. For more information about ordering wood exterior shutters for your home, please contact us.

You may also be interested in viewing differences in composite vs. vinyl shutters, PVC vs composite shutters, or wood vs composite shutters.