QA

How To Build Shutters For Exterior Windows

What kind of wood should you use for exterior shutters?

Cedar is the most common material for construction of exterior shutters because of its resistance to both insects and decay. It is a straight wood that finishes very well and can withstand harsh outdoor conditions well.

What kind of wood do you use for board and batten shutters?

Western Red Cedar is the most common material for building exterior board and batten shutters in the industry. Cedar has many of the same qualities as Redwood, yet is less dense, making it easier to sand and finish.

Should shutters be the same size as the window?

For the most authentic look, we recommend measuring only the window opening not including any frame or trim around it. Typically, the width of your shutters should be half of your total window width. Keep in mind that the shutters should look like if they could close to cover the window.

How thick should wood shutters be?

Thickness, Width, Height Our default standard thickness is 1 5/16″, but that can be varied from 7/8″ to 2 1/4″ to match existing exterior shutters. The length and height can be specified to the nearest 1/16″ inch.

Can you use untreated wood for shutters?

There are definitely more than one way to construct and hang shutters – I am simply sharing how we did it! Supplies needed to build shutters: Untreated Pine (we used 1.5 inch thick pine wood for the backboards and 3/4 inch thick pine for the cross board)Sep 21, 2016.

How long will pine shutters last?

The takeaway: Wood shutters are relatively long-lasting AND they can be repainted. Generally speaking, you may get anywhere from 10 to 20+ years out of use out of your shutters. However, they are more vulnerable to rot, termites and moisture damage comparatively.

Can you make your own plantation shutters?

Creating your own custom shutters is easy! Whether you’re a hobbyist or a professional woodworker, Rockler’s Louver Shutter Template Set makes building your own Plantation-style Shutters easy and affordable. Build movable louver style or fixed louvers and save up to 75% over the cost of custom ordered shutters!.

How wide should board and batten shutters be?

Building Board and Batten Shutters Go ahead and cut all of your boards to length on a miter saw, and then make any rips that you need to accommodate the width of your window. Each batten will run diagonally across the boards and should be just shy of the width of your shutter.

Are board and batten shutters popular?

Existing on historical cottages, European homes, and early American colonials for centuries, these classic shutters continue to be a popular choice, especially when the homeowner wants to create a rustic or modern farmhouse feel.

How wide should board and batten be?

The battens should butt tightly against the top trim board and be flush at the bottom with the wider vertical boards. While the width of the battens is your choice, they should be wide enough to overlap the edges of the larger boards by at least ½ inch on both sides.

How far should shutters be from window?

In most cases, the height of decorative shutter that is most appropriate is from the top to the bottom of the window trim. If there is a sill at the bottom of the window and you are installing vinyl shutters, it is important to leave a gap of at least 1/4 inch to allow the vinyl material to expand and contract.

How do you measure for functional exterior shutters?

Measure for the shutter height at the left side, middle, and right side of the window opening from the top of the window to the bottom excluding any window sill. If the heights vary at each of these points, use the smallest of the three measurements. This measurement will be the height of the shutter you need to order.

How wide can a plantation shutter be?

Warm Transitional Living Room With Wood Shutters Plantation shutters, sometimes called plantation blinds, are interior shutters with wide louvers, usually 3-1/2 to 4-1/2 inches wide. They’re the most popular type of shutter across the country, but particularly in the warmer Southern and Western states.

Is MDF good for shutters?

MDF is a much cheaper material than “real” wood, and therefore MDF shutters cost much less than wooden shutters. The robustness of MDF window shutters also make them particularly suitable for playroom or children rooms. MDF shutters are less prone to dent and scratches.

What is polymer shutters?

Housing an aluminium core that provides increased strength and durability, these blades won’t crack, split, chip or warp. Allure Polymer Shutters have the aesthetic appearance of real wood, they’re fire retardant and are made from a solid, non-toxic, recyclable material.

What are basswood shutters?

Basswood shutters are a natural product built to bring warmth and character to fine homes. Like marble baths, granite countertops, oak floors and fine wool rugs, basswood shutters are deep and rich materials that create an authenticity and sense of permanence synthetic materials cannot duplicate.

Why are wood shutters so expensive?

Why are plantation shutters expensive? Plantation shutters cost more because they are a long-lasting window treatment. Their materials are often pricier than those used for blinds and curtains. They take much longer to install as well.

Do I need to seal wood shutters?

Use an adhesive exterior caulking sealant to secure the cap to the top of the shutter and to weatherproof. Exterior wood shutters must be primed before they are painted. Applying exterior latex paint to your wood shutters will ensure that they do not chalk or fade as they would with an oil-based paint.

Do you have to seal cedar shutters?

Cedar offers a durable option for exterior and interior building projects with natural resistance to rot and decay, so a protective finish is optional. If you’re using cedar for an outdoor project, give it a light seal coat to guard against moisture and sunlight.