Are you dreaming of transforming your windows with a touch of timeless elegance? Custom wood shutters offer style, privacy, and energy efficiency, but figuring out how to get started can feel overwhelming.
Understanding how custom wood shutters work and how to get them made or installed helps you avoid costly mistakes and ensures you achieve the perfect look.
In this article, we’ll walk you through the essentials—from design choices and measuring tips to expert installation advice—so you can confidently enhance your space.
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How To Order Custom Wood Shutters: A Comprehensive Guide
Custom wood shutters offer timeless beauty, exceptional durability, and incredible curb appeal for your home’s exterior or interior. If you’re considering upgrading your windows with handcrafted wood shutters, understanding the process from start to finish is key to getting the perfect look, fit, and function. This guide breaks down everything you need to know about custom wood shutters—from choosing materials to ordering, installation, and care.
What Are Custom Wood Shutters?
Custom wood shutters are window coverings tailored to your precise specifications. Unlike standard sizes, they are crafted to fit your windows or doors exactly, using your choice of wood species, style, finish, and hardware. Customization means you can match unique architectural details or personal design preferences, whether you want a traditional, modern, rustic, or classic aesthetic.
Why Choose Custom Wood Shutters?
There are several reasons homeowners prefer custom wood shutters:
- Perfect Fit: They are made to your window’s exact measurements, resulting in a seamless and professional appearance.
- Endless Style Options: Choose from louvered, paneled, board and batten, Bahama, or combination designs, customized to match your home’s style.
- Superior Quality: Custom shutters are usually handcrafted by skilled craftsmen, using high-grade materials not typically found in off-the-shelf products.
- Value Addition: They boost the value and curb appeal of your home by blending aesthetics with functionality.
- Long-lasting: With proper care, quality wood shutters can last for decades.
Step-By-Step: The Custom Wood Shutter Process
Ordering and installing custom wood shutters involves a few key steps. Here’s a breakdown to make the process easy to follow.
1. Assess Your Needs
Start by identifying:
- The location: Interior or exterior?
- The main purpose: Privacy, light control, weather protection, or aesthetics?
- Your preferred style: Louvered, paneled, solid, Bahama (top-hinged), or plantation shutters?
2. Measure Your Windows
Accurate measurements are crucial. Here’s how you can do it:
- Width: Measure from jamb to jamb at the top, center, and bottom of the window. Use the smallest measurement.
- Height: Measure from the sill to the top on both sides and the center. Again, use the smallest height.
- Depth: Note the window recess, especially for interior shutters.
- For arched or specialty shapes, trace the opening or note detailed dimensions.
Most custom shutter companies provide guides and support to help you measure correctly. Some even offer professional measuring services for a fee.
3. Choose Your Wood Species and Finish
There are several wood types commonly used:
- Pine: Affordable and lightweight; best for painting.
- Cedar: Naturally resistant to insects and rot; ideal for exteriors.
- Mahogany, Sapele, or Teak: Premium hardwoods if you want superior durability and beautiful grain.
- Basswood: Popular for interior shutters due to its fine grain and stability.
Next, select a finish:
- Paint (in a color of your choice)
- Stain (to highlight natural wood grain)
- Unfinished (if you prefer to apply your own finish)
4. Select Shutter Style and Configuration
Custom wood shutters come in various designs:
- Louvered shutters: Feature adjustable or fixed slats for ventilation and light control.
- Raised/flat panel shutters: Provide a solid, classic look with enhanced privacy.
- Board and Batten: A rustic style with vertical boards and horizontal battens.
- Bahama shutters: Hinged at the top, great for tropical climates and sun control.
- Combination styles: Mix panels and louvers for unique flair.
Think about:
- Shutter operation: Functional (can open/close) or fixed (purely decorative).
- Mounting: Inside or outside the window frame.
5. Customize Hardware and Accessories
The finishing touches make a big difference:
- Hinges: Choose from standard, hidden, or decorative strap hinges.
- Latches, pulls, and holdbacks: Ensure shutters are secure and add style.
- Storm bars: For extra protection on exterior shutters.
6. Place Your Order
Once you’ve made your selections:
- Review all specifications, including measurements, finish, hardware, and quantity.
- Place your order with a reputable manufacturer or store that specializes in custom wood shutters.
- Many companies provide instant quotes and detailed order forms.
- Custom work may require a deposit before production begins.
7. Shipping and Delivery
- Confirm shipping options. Some providers offer free shipping, while others may charge based on size and distance.
- Check the estimated production and delivery times; custom shutters can take several weeks to craft and ship.
- Inspect your shutters upon arrival for any shipping damage.
8. Installation
You can choose:
- Professional Installation: Recommended for the best fit and finish, especially with large or complex shutters.
- DIY Installation: Many shutter kits come with detailed instructions and all necessary hardware.
Tip: Have an extra set of hands—shutters can be heavy and awkward to lift alone.
Benefits of Custom Wood Shutters
- Energy Efficiency: Adds insulation and can reduce heating/cooling costs.
- Versatility: Works for both modern and historic homes.
- Protection: Shields windows from storms and harsh sunlight.
- Noise Reduction: Especially with thicker panels.
- Timeless Style: Never goes out of fashion.
- Increased Property Value: Attracts buyers and can be a key selling point.
Challenges and Considerations
Ordering custom wood shutters comes with a few challenges:
- Higher Cost: Custom work and quality materials come at a premium price compared to standard shutters.
- Longer Wait Times: Handcrafting takes time—expect several weeks from order to delivery.
- Maintenance: Real wood shutters require periodic refinishing or repainting, especially outdoors.
- Complexity: Precise measuring and installation are critical—there’s little room for error.
Money-Saving Tips and Shipping Advice
Getting the best value means being smart about your purchase:
- Order in Bulk: Many manufacturers offer discounts for multiple shutters.
- Compare Quotes: Get detailed quotes from several reputable providers.
- Look for Sales: Some stores offer seasonal discounts or free shipping promotions.
- Combine Shipping: Ship all shutters together if possible to reduce per-item cost.
- Read Reviews: Ensure the manufacturer’s quality and customer service meet your expectations before ordering.
- DIY Finishing: If you’re handy, ordering unfinished shutters and painting/staining them yourself can save money.
Practical Tips for the Best Results
- Measure Twice, Order Once: Double-check every measurement before finalizing your order.
- Consult Experts: If unsure, ask your chosen supplier for advice or clarification.
- Think Long-Term: Choose hardware and finishes designed to last in your local climate.
- Plan for Maintenance: Regular cleaning, and periodic sealing or painting, will extend shutter life.
- Store Properly Pre-Installation: Keep your shutters in a dry area until you’re ready to install them.
Caring for Your Custom Wood Shutters
Proper care ensures your investment lasts:
- Regular Cleaning: Dust or wipe down with a damp cloth. For exterior shutters, wash gently with mild detergent and water.
- Check for Damage: Inspect annually for cracks, peeling paint, or loose hardware.
- Refinish as Needed: Sand and repaint or restain exterior shutters every few years depending on exposure.
- Lubricate Hardware: Keeps hinges and moving parts working smoothly.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Measuring windows inaccurately.
- Forgetting to specify left/right hand openings for functional shutters.
- Choosing the wrong wood species for your climate.
- Overlooking the need for weather-resistant hardware for exteriors.
- Skipping maintenance, leading to premature aging or damage.
Conclusion
Custom wood shutters are both a stunning and practical window upgrade. From unparalleled customization to tangible energy benefits, they are a worthwhile investment for any home. While the journey from design to installation involves several steps, careful planning ensures beautiful shutters that last for years. Whether you opt for a classic louvered look, charming board and batten, or bold Bahama style, your home will stand out with elegance and character.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. How long does it take to receive custom wood shutters after ordering?
Custom wood shutters typically take 4 to 8 weeks from order to delivery. The time depends on the manufacturer’s production schedule, the complexity of your order, and shipping logistics.
2. Are real wood shutters better than composite or vinyl alternatives?
Wood shutters offer unmatched beauty and can be customized with many finishes. While composites or vinyl are lower-maintenance and less expensive, they may not match the authentic look, feel, or longevity of high-quality wood.
3. Can I install custom wood shutters myself?
Yes! Many handy homeowners install shutters themselves. Make sure to follow the manufacturer’s instructions and have accurate measurements. Heavy or oversized shutters may be easier to manage with professional installation.
4. Do wood shutters need a lot of maintenance?
Wood shutters do require occasional maintenance—especially for exterior use. Plan to clean them regularly and refinish or seal them every few years to prevent weather damage and keep them looking fresh.
5. Is it possible to get custom-shaped shutters for arched or round windows?
Absolutely! Custom shutter manufacturers can craft shutters for arched, oval, and other specialty-shaped windows to your exact measurements. Provide a template or detailed measurements when ordering for the best fit.
By following these guidelines, you’ll be well-prepared to choose, order, and enjoy the timeless beauty of custom wood shutters for your home.