What Are Bahama Shutters?
Bahama shutters -- also called Bermuda shutters -- are top-hinged exterior shutters that mount above the window and prop outward at an angle. Originally designed for Caribbean and tropical architecture, they serve a dual purpose: shading interior spaces from intense sun while allowing ocean breezes to flow through the angled louvers. When a storm approaches, Bahama shutters swing down and latch flat against the window frame, providing an immediate layer of wind and debris protection.
Estate Millwork builds every Bahama shutter from solid hardwood using mortise and tenon joinery with double-pegged tenons for maximum strength. Our four Bahama styles -- Governor, Island Breeze, Kingston, and Saint George -- differ in rail width, sub-stile configuration, and maximum span. The Kingston model accommodates windows up to fourteen feet wide, making it one of the largest single-panel Bahama shutters available from any manufacturer.
Choosing the Right Wood for Bahama Shutters
Because Bahama shutters are always exterior-mounted and fully exposed to weather, wood selection is critical. Spanish cedar is the most popular choice, offering natural resistance to rot, insects, and moisture at a moderate price point. Mahogany delivers exceptional dimensional stability and a rich grain pattern that accepts both stain and paint finishes beautifully. For coastal installations where salt spray is a concern, teak provides the ultimate in weather resistance and can be left to develop a natural silver patina without any finish at all. Western red cedar and cypress are also excellent choices for exterior applications.
All Bahama shutters can be ordered unfinished, primed, or factory painted. Use our online Bahama shutter designer to select your style, wood species, dimensions, and finish, then see an instant 3D rendering with pricing. For questions about sizing, mounting hardware, or custom configurations, call 412-641-0177.
