If you’re interested in installing new window shutters in your home, you’ve probably done some research and with so many choices available, you likely have some questions on some things such as the terminology.
That’s why we put together a glossary of common window shutter terms to help you get a better understanding.
Window Shutter Materials
An important factor when buying window shutters is the material. The choice of material should be determined by where they’ll be installed in your home. Below is a list of the most common window shutter materials to choose from.
Wood – There are many types of wood used when manufacturing shutters including:
- Alder
- Basswood (which is the type of wood Avalon Shutters uses)
- Cedar
Composite – Made from a mixture of compressed hardwood, sawdust, and synthetic materials.
Hollow Vinyl – The edges are unfinished and usually capped. Hollow vinyl window shutters have a plastic finish.
Poly (polypropylene) – Made from a solid polyurethane synthetic material. They’re moisture resistant and thought to be the best choice for a synthetic shutter.
You can read more about the different types of window shutter materials.
Window Shutter Parts
There’s more than meets the eye with window shutters. All of the parts big and small play an important role in the overall form and function. Read on to get a basic understanding of the various parts of a window shutter.
Louver (slats) – The moveable horizontal pieces of wood that make up the majority of the shutter.
Panel – Used to cover the window opening and is made up of at least two rails and stiles, one tilt rod, and any number of louvers.
Mid-rail – The piece of material that runs horizontally between the top and bottom rails and acts as a divider between the louver sections.
Top & Bottom rails – Finish off the top and bottom of the window shutter panel and create the frame of the window shutter.
Stiles – Vertical, upright sections of the window shutter. Each window panel has two stiles with moveable louvers that are fitted for plantation shutters and solid wood that are mounted in solid panels.
Tilt Rod – Visible rod on the front of the shutters that moves the louvers (slats) up and down in unison.
Other Window Shutter Terms to Know
During your research, you’ll see and hear terms that refer to the style and/or structure of the window shutter. We’ve listed some of the most common below.
Arch Top – The curved top of a shutter.
Cafe-style shutters – These shutters cover the lower portion of the window.
Casement – The frame around the window sash.
Full Height – Creates a clean, sleek look as the shutters cover the entire window.
Plantation Shutters – Characterized by its titled wooden louvers. Plantation shutters are fitted to the window frame and can open like a door.
When you work with Avalon Shutters, one of our expert design consultants will collaborate with and educate you on the ins and outs of the process, what style of window shutter works best for your home, as well as what goes into the custom wooden window shutters of your dreams.
Take the guesswork out of window shutter shopping and schedule an in-home consultation today.
