Thinking about sprucing up the look of your place? Exterior shutters can be just the thing to give your home a fresh new vibe. They’re not only about aesthetics but also serve a practical purpose. 

To help you out, here are some simple tips for choosing the perfect exterior shutters for your humble abode.

 

Match the Style to Your Home’s Architecture

Now, let’s talk style. Your house has its own unique personality, right? So, you’ll want your shutters to complement that personality. If your home’s got a classic vibe, think about louvered or raised-panel shutters in classic colors like white or black. They’ll blend seamlessly with traditional designs. 

But if your house is all about modern chic, sleek and minimalist shutters in bold colors or natural wood finishes might be more your jam.

Just take a good look at your house’s roof, siding, and overall design. Your shutters should be a sidekick, not a scene-stealer.

 

Determine the Right Size and Placement

Size matters. You don’t want shutters that look like they’ve been borrowed from a dollhouse or ones that could double as garage doors. Measure your windows properly. Each shutter’s width should be about half the width of the corresponding window. And when you’re hanging them up, make sure they frame your windows neatly and don’t hide any cool architectural stuff.

 

Choose the Right Material

Let’s talk materials. There’s wood, vinyl, composite, and aluminum to pick from. Each comes with its own perks and quirks.

Wood: Wood shutters are classic and can be painted or stained to match your home. But remember, they need some TLC to prevent rot and warping.

Vinyl: Vinyl shutters are low-maintenance and can handle moisture and pesky insects. They come in various styles and colors, but they might not have that rustic charm of wood.

Composite: Think of composite shutters as the best of both worlds—wood’s looks and synthetic materials’ durability. They’re moisture-resistant and don’t need much fuss.

Aluminum: Aluminum shutters are tough cookies, perfect for coastal or humid places. They’re not as cozy as wood but will weather any storm.

The material you choose should fit your climate, your wallet, and your willingness to do upkeep.

 

Explore Color Options

Picking the right color is where the fun begins. Classic colors like black, white, or earthy browns are always safe bets. But hey, don’t be shy to experiment with bolder colors to make your house pop. 

Before you make your mind up, grab some paint samples or color swatches. See how they play with your home’s siding or brick. You want a color that complements what’s already there. Your shutters can be the splash of personality your home’s been waiting for.

 

Budget Wisely

Last but not least, let’s talk dollars and cents. Exterior shutters can have a price range as diverse as their styles. While it’s tempting to go all out on designer shutters, remember to stay grounded in your budget.

Shop around, get a few quotes from different places. And don’t forget to factor in installation costs if you’re not a DIY superstar. With some savvy budgeting and exploring different options, you’ll find the perfect shutters that will jazz up your home without emptying your wallet.