Historic House Shutters for Exterior Windows
Buildings throughout the United States have been honored as designated historic properties. It is in the common interest that these structures be preserved for their prominent architectural significance. Meticulous maintenance requires particular processes and quality construction supplies, including historic house shutters.
Before
What are the Most Historical Exterior Shutters?
Period historic house shutters were crafted to perform multiple tasks. Privacy, ventilation, sunlight reduction, and protection were primary considerations when constructing. Most exterior house shutters incorporated louvers to best accomplish all of these duties. Solid panel shutters lacked the ability to filter light but successfully created a stronger ground level barrier from invasion. Both styles are frequently used in the restoration of historic homes.
Natural wood has been used for decades in the construction of exterior shutters. It is universally recognized as the optimal material for use on period homes and other restoration projects. ShutterLand has advised on hundreds of these efforts. In recent years we have come to acknowledge that PVC is not only an acceptable replacement but a superior material. PVC shutters have nearly the exact same specifications as wood shutters with a few improvements. The material itself will not absorb moisture. The component dimensions are similar to wood. The horizontal rails are rabbeted and the louvers slightly overlap to prevent light gaps. When finished and installed it is nearly imposible for most people to tell the difference betwen PVC and wood.
Exterior Shutters for Historical Homes
ShutterLand has assisted in the restoration of several historic properties. One customer in Barnstable Village, Massachusetts, has been meticulously preserving his circa 1820 home. He came to ShutterLand recently with very detailed requirements for historic house shutters. We were able to provide ample evidence that our premium wood exterior shutters would meet the approval of his local historic committee. The installation of fully functional, louvered shutters painted Black Forest Green helped restore this home to its original beauty, and the customer is very pleased. He wrote, “You guys do a great job. The house has not had exterior shutters for many years. The commission was very excited when I went to them with my plan to install functional shutters. Appreciate your help!”
Thousands of homeowners across the country can sympathize with the difficulty of finding period correct exterior shutter materials. Craftsmanship from previous generations is incredibly detailed and rarely equaled today. ShutterLand is well aware that quality is essential and works hard to maintain a high standard for every exterior window shutter ordered. Surprisingly, PVC exterior shutters also comply with guidelines outlined by many historic preservation societies.
Most houses on the historic register must adhere to extremely rigid regulations, requiring oversight of every exterior (and sometimes interior) change to a home. Shutter paint colors, roof materials, and even landscaping choices are subject to scrutiny.
Advice for Historic House Shutters
Historically-accurate outdoor shutters can be difficult to find and costly to purchase. Some homes in the New England states might use shutter horns or tails. Installation with functional exterior hardware is essential. ShutterLand looks forward to working with you to complete your historic home renovation
