The Pros and Cons of Composite Shutters

Composite shutters can be a great alternative to traditional wood shutters and can significantly reduce costs on materials. However, there are a few factors you may want to consider before deciding if faux shutters are right for you.

Pros Cons
Cost is less than solid wood shutters Limited selection of louver size (only 2½" and 3½" louvers are available)
Shorter manufacturing time Standard size divider rails; no size customization available
Ideal for use in bathrooms, Jacuzzi areas, and seashore Double hung shutters are not available because of top/bottom rail size standardization
Panels can be measured down to 1/16th of an inch for both height and width Standard colors are white and off white only; custom colors available but are costly
Divider rails can be placed according to customer preference Traditional louvers, raised panels, combination panels, vertical louvers, curtain panels, etc. are not available as composite shutters
Standard finish in white and off white give the appearance of wood Mounting shutters inside window frames very difficult because of limited louver size
  Stain finishes not available
  Panels are not mortised for hinges
  Stiles cannot be overlapped with multiple panels (rabetting cannot be done)
  Limited flexibility for installation