Enhance your Home with Wood Shutters: An In-Depth Look

Published: July 01, 2022

By the Estate Millwork Design Team | Craftsmen since 1997

Throughout the country exterior wood shutters enhance the beauty and performance of both traditional and modern homes. Adding shutters instantly adds depth, texture, and contrast of color to the visual landscape. With the addition of hinges and hardware, our premium wood shutters can swing open or closed to help control sunlight, regulate airflow and manage privacy within your home.

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Spanish Cedar Wood Shutters

The most commonly used and recognizable wood species used in exterior construction is Cedar. Spanish Cedar ranges from a light brown to a pinkish/red brown and is an aromatic species with a condensed grain containing few knots and is naturally resistant to both rot and insects. At Estate Millwork we use what is referred to as Spanish Cedar, while this is not a true cedar it still maintains the same properties as typical cedar woods.

Cypress Wood Shutters

While cedar shutters are probably the most common among homeowners, there are many homeowners choosing cypress shutters today.Cypress has been used for exterior applications in the southern United States for many years. Like cedar cypress has similar protective qualities against bugs and decay.

Mahogany Wood Shutters

The compact warm reddish-brown grain of Genuine Mahogany creates a strong, sturdy and moisture resistant exterior wood shutter. For hundreds of years Mahogany has been viewed as a hallmark of fine woodwork and more recently has become popular as an exterior wood choice. Sapele Mahogany is denser and nearly twice as hard than Genuine Mahogany and not all of the Mahogany labeled species behave as well and they vary dramatically in density, color, and stability. However, the comparison to Mahogany as an outstanding exterior grade wood that has rich reddish-brown heartwood holds true. Sapele is most often used as a window and door material because it is so stable and almost completely rot and weather resistant. The grain and pore structure is tighter than Genuine Mahogany making Sapele a great option for painting. Sapele Mahogany is definitely the cream of the crop when it comes to African Mahogany like hardwoods. Most shutters manufacturers use Sapele (Mahogany) we at Estate Millwork offer both options.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best wood for exterior shutters?

Spanish Cedar, Cypress, and Western Red Cedar are top choices for exterior shutters due to their natural resistance to moisture, rot, and insects. Mahogany and Teak are premium alternatives offering exceptional durability and rich coloring. The best choice depends on your climate, budget, and desired aesthetic.

How long do custom wood shutters last?

With proper finishing and maintenance, custom wood shutters can last 20 years or more. Hardwood shutters built with mortise and tenon joinery are structurally superior to composite or vinyl alternatives, and they can be refinished multiple times to extend their lifespan even further.

Can wood shutters be used in humid climates?

Yes. Species like Spanish Cedar and Cypress have natural oils that resist moisture absorption and fungal growth. Proper sealing with a marine-grade exterior finish provides additional protection. Estate Millwork kiln-dries all lumber to optimal moisture content before milling to minimize warping.

What is the difference between louvered and raised panel shutters?

Louvered shutters feature angled slats that allow airflow and light control, making them ideal for ventilation. Raised panel shutters have a solid panel with a beveled center, offering a more traditional, formal appearance. Both styles are available in custom sizes and multiple wood species.

Expert Tips for Choosing and Maintaining Wood Shutters

Always measure the exact window opening before ordering. Custom shutters are built to your specifications, and accurate measurements ensure a perfect fit without costly adjustments.
Consider your home's architectural style when selecting a shutter design. Louvered shutters complement Colonial and Coastal homes, while raised panel shutters pair well with Federal and Georgian architecture.
Apply a high-quality exterior primer and paint or UV-resistant clear coat within two weeks of installation for unfinished shutters. This seals the wood against moisture and UV damage from day one.
Inspect your shutters annually for signs of finish wear, especially on south-facing and west-facing elevations that receive the most sun exposure. Touch up any bare spots promptly to prevent moisture intrusion.