Wood shutter vs. Composite shutter
Wood shutters are trending when it comes to window treatments. It is like window blinds that have slats but is taken to another level as it is custom made to fit exactly to your windows. This can be an interior window shutter or exterior window shutter. It can be open horizontally, vertically, bi-folds or any way you want it to be customized.
It can also suit any shape of windows and even doors. This also provides privacy and heat protection just like any window treatment. Its versatility and classic style are really elegant plus it increases value to your home as it usually stays at the window even if you resell it. But the question is what material would you use in your window shutter to make it last longer? Or what gives more aesthetic options?
Which is better, wood shutter or composite shutter?
To help you determine which is right for you, let us weigh the pros and cons of both shutters.
Composite shutters
A faux wood shutter or an engineered wood, this shutter is made of wood but coated with PVC vinyl to protect the wood layer below it. This would increase its moisture resistance and is suited for bathrooms and areas with constant contact with water.
Advantages of composite shutters
It is cheaper because it does not use pure wood.
This could withstand excessive exposure to water.
Disadvantages of composite shutters
It is heavier due to the composition of materials, making it structurally weaker. This cannot be installed in larger and wider windows because it has the tendency to collapse.
Additional divider rails and center frame posts are needed to make it stiffer which can add up to the building cost, waiving its cheap original price.
Composite shutters only come in white or off white, which is the color of its vinyl coating.
It cannot be shaped or customized to different sizes, you cannot paint nor stain it since there are no grain and cannot absorb material due to its vinyl coating.
Wood shutters
This is considered as the ultimate shutter or a real wood shutter. It has the highest strength to weight ratio as it weighs only half of the composite shutters making it structurally stronger.
Advantages of wood shutters
It is stronger and durable. This can be installed even in wide and tall windows because it is lighter. There is no need for additional support like dividers and center posts. This can also last as long as the life of the house.
It comes in many colors, from black to white and anywhere in between.
It can be shaped and customized, even from arch to circles.
It can be repainted because it is real wood and has grains and can absorb materials.
It provides better heat resistance and insulation.
Disadvantages of wood shutters
It is much expensive than its composite counterpart.
It is not advisable in areas that are exposed to excessive water as wood is a good absorber and becomes brittle when it dries.
Exterior wood shutters take longer to construct as it needs some hand finish.
Both are good for your windows and add protection to your home from harsh sunlight and weather conditions. So you might want to hire or consult an expert contractor of window shutters in Albuquerque.
