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The Different Types of Shutter Materials Available Today

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As Australia's summers become hotter and longer, you have to find ways to insulate your house against the heat. One of the best ways to accomplish this goal is to install window shutters. 

Window shutters have louvres (individual slats or blades that go across the shutters) that can be adjusted to regulate the amount of natural light that enters your house interiors, allowing you to stay cool and comfortable in hot weather.

While window shutter installation is an excellent way to protect your home against the freakishly hot days that have become the new norm of Australia's once-loved summers, not all shutters are created equal.

Shutters come in a range of material options to suit the requirements and budgets of different homeowners. Check out these popular shutter materials used in homes.

Wood shutters

Wood shutters are the traditional choice for homes, and for good reason. Wood is a natural insulator, meaning it can provide some of the world's hottest climates with cool and comfortable dwellings. It lends itself to passive house designs.

Wood also possesses a natural and authentic beauty that other shutter materials can only try to imitate. The wood grain and pattern on every product are unique, thus making your shutters stand out from the rest.

On the downside, wood shutters require a high level of care and upkeep to retain their beauty and strength. They may not be a suitable choice if you want low-maintenance shutters for your home.

Aluminium shutters

Lightweight yet strong, aluminium shutters are perhaps the most durable shutters available on the market today. Unlike steel, aluminium offers a high level of resistance to corrosion, meaning it is a suitable choice for homes located in coastal regions and other corrosive environments.

Since they are strong and weather-resistant, aluminium shutters can be installed indoors or outdoors. Plus, they can significantly beef up your residential security.

The biggest drawback of aluminium shutters is their high price tag. These window shutters generally cost more than other types of shutters available today but are a cost-effective choice in the long run.

Vinyl shutters

If you are in the market for window shutters that can provide the practical advantages of conventional wood shutters at a cheaper price, look no further than vinyl shutters. These plastic- or polymer-based shutters can block out unwanted heat and light and provide privacy without requiring too much maintenance.

Vinyl is impervious to moisture, so you don't have to worry about rain or humidity ruining your window coverings. Although vinyl shutters are hard-wearing and can provide a long lifespan, they usually cannot be repaired and will require replacement if they become damaged.

Need shutters for your new home construction or residential renovation? Contact a shutter specialist to learn more about your options.


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