When it comes to your home’s shutters, there’s one thing we know for sure: You have options. Whether it’s adding shutters for the first time, replacing for a new look or even removing existing shutters to go without, it’s all about finding what works best for your home.
To help you decide, we’re breaking down a few of the common reasons and home styles that might have you considering each option.
ADD
If you’re debating adding shutters, here’s a good rule of thumb: Are your windows wider than they are tall? If the answer is yes, shutters might not be a good look for your particular home. The reason? Well, even if your shutters aren’t functional, they should still appear functional — meaning that they should visually be able to “close” over or cover your windows.
Now, if wideness of your windows isn’t an issue, the only other big question is whether there is enough space on either side of your windows to add shutters. Beyond that consideration, there isn’t much else that should stop you from adding shutters, if that’s what you want. . While some home styles more commonly don’t have shutters — like Arts and Craft-style bungalows or farmhouse-style home — there are still plenty of examples of these styles looking great with varying types of shutters.
REPLACE
Warped, cracked, outdated or simply just need a change? All of these and more are great reasons to replace your shutters. In most cases, replacing your shutters won’t cause a big identity crisis for your house. Sure, a new style can help switch things up, but the change won’t be as dramatic as adding or removing shutters.
However, before you totally change up your shutter style, take a moment to make sure your style of choice fits with your home’s aesthetic. For instance, a board and batten shutter might not work as well with your colonial home.
REMOVE
If you’re ready to say goodbye to your shutters altogether, pause to ask yourself one very important question: What’s underneath? For traditional siding home that have had shutters for years, you’ll likely need to repaint in order to successfully remove your shutters. Years of sunlight and weathering may have caused the siding under your shutters to stay darker than the rest of your home — and removing your shutters could cause a significant eyesore.
However, keep in mind that adding, replacing and removing aren’t your only options. There’s also refreshing or repainting. Above all, take the time to consider your choice carefully to make sure it’s the right option for your home.
Time to replace?
