Louvered Shutter Buying Guide
Louvered shutters are the most recognizable style of exterior window treatment in American architecture. Their angled wooden slats allow air and light to pass through while shedding rain and providing shade. From colonial Williamsburg to modern coastal homes, louvered shutters add depth and character to any facade. They also serve as functional protection during storms when built with operable hardware.
Choosing the Right Wood
Wood selection is the single most important decision when ordering exterior louvered shutters. Mahogany leads the field for its dimensional stability, natural resistance to rot and insects, and gorgeous aging characteristics. Spanish cedar is another top performer, prized for its aromatic oils that naturally repel moisture and pests. For painted applications, poplar offers a smooth grain that takes paint exceptionally well at a lower price point.
White oak and cypress are strong regional choices, particularly in the Southeast where humidity demands the hardest-working wood species. Every Estate Millwork shutter is crafted from solid wood with true mortise and tenon joinery, not the finger-jointed or composite alternatives found at retail stores.
Interior and Exterior Configurations
Exterior louvered shutters mount beside windows to frame the opening and add architectural detail. When sized correctly, they should be half the width of the window and match its full height. Functional exterior shutters include operable hardware that allows them to close over the window for storm protection or privacy.
Interior louvered shutters work beautifully as window treatments, room dividers, and closet enclosures. They mount inside the window casing and typically feature adjustable louvers for precise light control. Interior applications allow for a wider range of wood species since weather resistance is not a factor.
Measuring and Ordering
Accurate measurements are essential for shutters that look proportional and professional. For decorative exterior shutters, measure the height and width of the window opening. Each shutter panel should be exactly half the window width. For functional shutters that close over the window, add overlap to each side.
Our online designer lets you specify exact dimensions, choose louver size and spacing, select your wood species, and see instant pricing. You can order shutters primed, stained, painted, or unfinished. Most orders ship within three to four weeks. Use the Customize button on any style above to start designing your shutters now.
