Inflation Got You Down? You Can Still Afford Exterior Shutters
Inflation is a concern for many homeowners, making it challenging to justify expenses on home improvement projects. However, sprucing up your home’s exterior doesn’t have to break the bank. Here are five savvy ways to cut down the expense of exterior shutters without compromising on quality or aesthetics.
1. Economy Vinyl Shutters
Exterior shutters are available in a variety of materials with a wide price range. If the goal is to add instant curb appeal to your home, vinyl shutters are the most cost-effective choice. Opting for economy vinyl shutters can significantly reduce costs while still offering a wide range of designs and colors to complement your home’s architecture. These shutters are lightweight, easy to install, and require minimal maintenance, making them a practical choice for budget-conscious homeowners.
Vinyl shutters can only be installed in a stationary position. In a situation where operable shutters are required, economy pine shutters provide the best value. These shutters are manufactured with the same quality processes as premium wood shutters. Pine shutters can be expected to give many years of service, especially in relatively mild climates with minimal temperature fluctuations.
If your mind is set on solid wood, PVC or composite shutters, consider a combination of both the premium material and vinyl. In more conspicuous areas, like on the front of the house, use the premium materials. Vinyl shutters can then be mounted on the back or sides of the home at a lower price point. This is not an ideal solution, but can work successfully on some designs.
2. Omit Hardware, or Use Faux Hardware
Functional shutter hardware – including hinges, shutter dogs, bolts and pulls – is necessary when installing shutters to be operable. However, those accents significantly add to the cost of an exterior project and are not necessary for shutters installed primarily for a decorative purpose. Consider omitting hardware altogether or opting for dummy hardware, which provides the appearance of functional hardware at a much lower cost. This simple adjustment can help trim your budget without sacrificing the visual appeal of the shutters.
3. Paint Yourself
Factory painted shutters often come with a higher price tag due to the labor and materials involved in the painting process. Save money by purchasing unfinished or primed shutters and painting them on site.
Because shutters are often replaced as part of a larger exterior renovation project, a painting contractor may include the cost of painting shutters with the rest of the house. This can reduce overall project costs and ensure color consistency with other exterior elements. Be sure to allow adequate time for production and delivery of the shutters. ShutterLand provides up-to-date production times online so you can plan accordingly.
Other homeowners opt to paint their own shutters to save money and maintain control of the finished product. Not only does this option allow you to customize the color to your preference, but it also gives you a sense of accomplishment knowing you’ve contributed to the beautification of your home while keeping costs down.
4. Shutters Only on One Story
If budget constraints are tight, consider installing outdoor shutters on only one story of your home. While shutters on all windows create a uniform look, focusing on the lower level can still enhance curb appeal without the need for a substantial financial investment.
Many historic homes included shutters only on the first story for privacy and security, but did not have any shutters on the second story. This practice has continued into modern times, especially for homes built in the Federal and Colonial styles. Occasionally, roof lines and dormer windows on the second floor negate the need for shutters. This strategic placement of shutters only on the first floor draws attention to the main entrance and provides a budget-friendly solution for updating your home’s exterior.
Alternatively, some homes have architectural elements on the first floor, while the second story is more suited for shutters. Large picture windows or bay windows can fill much of the first story and make shutters unnecessary. Often, stone or brick work on the first floor are visually interesting enough to eliminate the need for window shutters. On such homes, installing shutters only on the second story makes perfect sense and provides a significant cost savings.
5. Order Shutters Online and DIY Installation
ShutterLand manufactures shutters to order and ships nationwide directly from the factory. By ordering shutters online directly from ShutterLand, you take advantage of competitive prices and a wide selection of styles. Additionally, opting for do-it-yourself (DIY) installation can further reduce costs by eliminating the need for professional labor. ShutterLand provides step-by-step guides and video tutorials to help you tackle the measuring and installation process with confidence.
In conclusion, don’t let inflation deter you from enhancing your home’s exterior with stylish window shutters. By implementing these five cost-cutting strategies, you can achieve the look you desire without draining your wallet. From choosing budget-friendly materials to embracing DIY techniques, there are plenty of ways to achieve a high-end aesthetic on a shoestring budget. So go ahead, give your home a makeover and watch as those exterior shutters transform your curb appeal without breaking the bank.
