As a homeowner or business owner, it’s important to make the right decisions when it comes to improving the aesthetic appeal and functionality of your property. One of the decisions you might be considering is the installation of custom window shutters, but it’s important to consider the material composition before making a final choice.
In particular, custom composite shutters may seem like a good option due to the cost savings and custom color options, but in reality, they come with several drawbacks that make them a poor choice for your property. In this article, we’ll explore what custom composite shutters are made of and why they’re not a good choice.
Defining What Custom Composite Shutters Are
These shutters are typically made from medium-density fiberboard (MDF) or high-density fiberboard (HDF), which are composite materials created by binding sawdust, wood shavings, and other wood particles with a resin or glue. While composite shutters resemble real wood shutters, they are not made from real wood and lack the quality and durability that real wood provides.
Vinyl shutters are a great option for homeowners who are looking for an affordable window treatment solution. Unlike composite shutters, which are made from a mixture of materials, vinyl shutters are constructed from a durable, high-quality plastic material that is able to withstand the wear and tear of everyday use. In addition to their durability, vinyl shutters are also resistant to damage from moisture and UV rays, which makes them an ideal choice for use in high-humidity areas, such as bathrooms and kitchens. Furthermore, vinyl shutters require very little maintenance and can be easily cleaned with a damp cloth, making them a practical and convenient option for busy homeowners. Overall, vinyl shutters offer a great combination of affordability, durability, and ease of use, which make them a superior choice to composite shutters.
One of the biggest selling points of custom composite shutters is the option to choose a custom color. While this may seem like an attractive choice, keep in mind that composite shutters cannot absorb stain as a real wood does. The color of composite shutters can fade and appear dull. Additionally, custom color options may be limited for composite shutters due to their material composition.
Which is better vinyl or composite shutters?
Another major drawback of custom composite shutters is their susceptibility to moisture. Because composite shutters are made from wood particles and resins, they are prone to warping, swelling, and cracking when exposed to moisture. This can happen even in low-humidity environments, and can lead to costly repairs or replacements. In contrast, poly shutters are much more resilient to moisture and can last for many years without issues.
When it comes to aesthetic appeal, composite shutters may seem like an affordable alternative to real wood shutters, but they lack the depth and warmth that real wood shutters provide. Additionally, composite shutters typically feature raised panels that are mechanically applied, rather than hand-carved like real wood shutters. This lack of handcrafted detail can make composite shutters appear cheap and artificial.
Are composite shutters environmentally friendly?
The production process for composite materials involves the use of non-renewable resources, and these materials cannot be recycled at the end of their lifespan. In contrast, real wood shutters are sustainably sourced from forests and can be repurposed or recycled at the end of their life.
While custom composite shutters may initially seem like an affordable and attractive option, they come with several major drawbacks that make them a poor choice for your property. Composite shutters lack the durability, moisture resistance, aesthetic appeal, and environmental sustainability that real wood shutters provide. When making a decision about window shutters, it’s important to consider the long-term value and quality that real wood shutters offer.
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