Choosing Between Wood and Vinyl Plantation Shutters

Plantation shutters have a rich history and were used to protect windows long before panes of glass. These window treatments have a basic design consisting of rows of blinds, housed between support rails and stiles. While durable wood materials were originally used in the manufacturing process, more affordable materials like vinyl are now an option for savvy homeowners. Learn more about each option and its benefits.

Classic wooden shutters

Many homeowners prefer real wood plantation shutters because of their classic look and all-natural construction. Real wood brings warmth to a home and can easily be combined with existing home décor. Wood is also very versatile and can be shaped and sized to fit almost any window opening. Real hardwoods are considered the best design choice, providing unsurpassed energy efficiency, durability, and charm.

There are numerous material options for homeowners to choose from. Some of the most popular include solid basswood, maple, mahogany, cherry, knotty pine, alder, walnut, as well as more upscale options like teak and bubinga. Almost any type of wood that furniture can be made from can also be used to make these window treatments.

Homeowners have the opportunity to completely customize the look of their window coverings when using wood. Raw wood can be stained in a wide range of colors and shades to blend effortlessly with your home decor. It can also be painted or left natural for an authentic look.

modern vinyl shutters

Vinyl plantation shutters are constructed of various polyresin materials designed with durability and strength in mind. Due to the sleek, plastic-like material, vinyl requires little maintenance and is easy to clean. Problems such as cracking, fading, or peeling paint are generally not a problem when using this modern material. High-quality materials are also less likely to deteriorate over time.

Most vinyl products are noticeably less expensive than real wood, which makes them more affordable. Because it is a more stable material, vinyl is also often a good investment. As the material is fire retardant and moisture resistant, it can be used in almost any room in a house, including bathrooms and kitchens. While most commonly used inside the home, these window treatments can also be installed outside.

There are several types of vinyl window shade styles to choose from. Hollow picks are ideal for humid environments, such as in a window next to a shower stall. Other types of vinyl can be made to look exactly like real wood, giving you the best of both worlds. This material usually comes dyed or tinted directly from the manufacturer to ensure the color doesn’t fade over time.

Buying new window treatments for your home? Consider which materials would work best with your home and budget so you can make an informed decision.