Designed to be functional, window shutters seen today are a primarily a decorative feature that can be found on many homes.
Window shutters were originally intended to provide security, privacy, and to provide added protection from the elements. Thermal, low-E glass, and double and triple pane glass wouldn’t be available for years, so shutters worked to reduce drafts in colder months and to block the sun’s rays in warmer months. It allowed people a way to regulate indoor temperatures.
Depending on the size of the window opening, they could be mounted on either both or one side of the window. They could be made to fit both hung windows, fixed windows, or casement windows.
Wooden Shutter Basics
Original wooden shutters were made using either solid pieces of wood or by fastening smaller pieces of wood together. The shutters were sized to cover the entire window opening when closed. While louvered shutters were in use for years, they gained popularity during the industrial revolution when they became more affordable.
These simple
operational shutters provided the benefits of solid shutters but offered even more control of interior space temperatures. Like blinds, the slots can be adjusted to regulate air ventilation and sun exposure.
Alternative Window Shutters
Shutters for architectural shaped windows, like a half round window, are wing shaped when opened. This is so that when closed, they align with the rounded top of the window opening.
It’s not uncommon to find both solid and louvered shutters on a home. Homeowners would mount solid shutters on lower levels because they offered added security. Higher stories would get louvered shutters because they would still provide privacy, but they could be adjusted to allow warmer, rising air to escape and cool breezes to enter.
In southern and coastal regions, storm or hurricane shutters are used because the high winds and rain require added protection against the elements.
Shutter Materials
House shutters can be made from a variety of materials today. Wood, vinyl, PVC, and composite are just a few of the types of home shutters you’ll find available. Deciding which one is best for you, depends on your environment, budget, functionality, and aesthetic preferences or requirements.
Replacement Windows and Exterior Shutters
In most cases, when you get replacement windows, your home’s shutters will not have to be removed for the installation. Required removal depends on the siding material.
In some instances with aluminum siding, the shutters may be fastened in a way that makes it necessary to remove the shutters. Your Jantek representative will review this with you before quoting the project.
During your confirmation measurement appointment, our field supervisor will review if any additional work and costs are necessary. If you have questions about the cost or process, always ask before the start of the project.
Need a quote? Our online TeleEstimate form allows you to get a hassle-free, same-day quote without a sales visit.
