When you start looking for exterior window shutters you will soon find that there are many different types of shutters. Some are used for functional purposes while others are used as decoration only.

Decorative exterior window shutters tend to be made of wood or faux wood. These are usually attached to the side of the exterior windows and painted to match the trim or the door of the house. These shutters consist of one panel on each side of the window. These panels does not open or close, but remain affixed to the side of the window. These are often added to houses to increase the curb appeal of the house.

Solid exterior window shutters can look the same as the decorative windows, only they're built to shut. These shutters are made of wood panels. Many of them also contain decorative outside panels to add a little pizzazz to the shutter. These shutters are very effective at keeping out the cold in the winter and the heat in the summer.

Roll-down metal shutters and Bahama shutters are two types of exterior window shutters that are used as emergency shutters. These shutters are not used on a daily basis because they block all sunlight from the house. They also don't keep out the heat because that's not what they're meant to do.

Emergency exterior window shutters are used when a massive storm such as a hurricane or a tornado is en route. These shutters are made of sturdier materials such as metal or steel and they are not attractive. However, they will prevent your windows from breaking during a natural disaster. This will keep you and your family safer.

Shutters To Go in or Out?

So how do you know if you need interior or exterior window shutters? For starters, you don't have to choose one or the other. People who have exterior shutters also have interior shutters. Each type of shutter serves a different purpose.

As we discussed, outside shutters are primarily used for decoration and protection from wild storms. Some of them are also used to insulate the house. Inside shutters are used solely to protect the house from the elements and to create an element of privacy in the home.

Some people find outside shutters very unattractive, but they may like the look of inside shutters. The nice thing about both inside and outside shutters is that they can be used in conjunction with other window coverings such as curtains.

Whether you decide to use inside or outside shutters, make sure to do a little research before you buy your shutters. If you shop around, you'll be able to find exterior window shutters at a discount.