Wood or Faux Wood?

For many years, wood was the standard material used in the construction of shutters. These traditional shutters gave a classic elegance to the home. They offered light control and privacy and could be painted to match the home’s décor or existing trim color. However, wood shutters were not without their drawbacks. They were not always the best window treatment choice for every room. In addition, homeowners found that wood shutters were not maintenance free. They required refinishing or repainting every few years. In recent years, faux wood shutters have gained popularity with consumers. Shutters constructed from lightweight yet durable materials can provide the timeless beauty and look of traditional painted wood shutters, but with some distinct advantages. 

shutters made from wood can warp and crack if exposed to high levels of moisture. Manufacturers and decorators often did not recommend them for kitchens and bathrooms. The advantage of some faux wood shutters is that they are made from non-porous materials that will resist moisture, mold, and mildew. These types of shutters are the perfect choice for high humidity areas like kitchens and bathrooms. They can easily be wiped clean with a damp cloth and mild soap.

Painted wood shutters may fade, yellow, chip, and peel over time. The surfaces may need to be scraped and sanded before refinishing can occur. Some of today’s faux wood shutters have special finishes that will not yellow, and will never need to be repainted or refinished. In addition, many of these polyresin materials are extremely durable, fire retardant, more energy efficient, and provide UV protection for the home’s furnishings.

Depending on the quality of the manufacturing process and the materials used,  shutters can last for many years with proper maintenance. Homeowners should definitely consider the manufacturer’s warranty on shutters before making a purchase.