Custom Wood Shutters in New Orleans, LA
In the historic neighborhoods of New Orleans, from the French Quarter to the Garden District, homeowners appreciate the enduring beauty and practicality of custom wood shutters. Estate Millwork provides meticulously handcrafted wood shutters, built to your exact specifications and architectural style, shipped directly to your New Orleans doorstep. Our commitment to quality and American-made craftsmanship ensures that your shutters will not only enhance your home's curb appeal but also stand the test of time. Whether you're looking for louvered shutters for a classic look or Bahama shutters for storm protection, we can create the perfect shutters for your home.
New Orleans's Climate and the Importance of Wood Selection for Shutters
New Orleans presents a unique climate challenge for exterior wood shutters. The city experiences high humidity, averaging around 75% year-round, with peaks during the summer months. Temperatures range from average lows in the 40s Fahrenheit in winter to average highs in the 90s Fahrenheit in the summer. New Orleans also receives significant rainfall, averaging over 60 inches annually, coupled with a high UV index, particularly from March to October, often reaching levels of 7-9. These factors can wreak havoc on improperly chosen wood. For optimal performance in New Orleans, we recommend Spanish Cedar, Mahogany, or Cypress. Spanish Cedar's natural oils repel insects and resist rot, while Mahogany offers exceptional stability and water resistance. Cypress is naturally resistant to moisture, decay, and insects, making it ideal for Louisiana's humid environment. These species withstand the city's heat, humidity, and rainfall better than softer woods, minimizing warping, cracking, and fungal growth.
Architectural Styles of New Orleans and Complementary Shutter Designs
New Orleans boasts a rich tapestry of architectural styles, each with its own distinct charm. The iconic French Quarter showcases wrought-iron balconies and Creole townhouses, perfectly complemented by louvered shutters that offer both privacy and ventilation. The Garden District features grand antebellum mansions, often adorned with raised panel shutters that enhance their stately elegance. Shotgun houses, a common sight throughout the city, look fantastic with board and batten shutters, adding a touch of rustic charm. Bahama shutters are a practical and stylish choice for many homes offering shade and storm protection, especially popular in areas prone to hurricanes, and can be seen on many properties throughout the city. Flat panel shutters offer a clean, modern look that can suit a variety of properties, from renovated historical buildings to more contemporary homes. Estate Millwork can craft custom shutters to match any of these architectural styles, preserving the unique character of New Orleans's neighborhoods.
Top Wood Species for Custom Shutters in New Orleans
For New Orleans's demanding climate, we recommend Spanish Cedar, Mahogany, and Cypress. Spanish Cedar's natural oils provide excellent resistance to insects and rot, essential in Louisiana's humid environment. Mahogany offers superior stability, minimizing warping and cracking, even under intense sun and rain. Cypress is a locally sourced option known for its natural water resistance and durability. When finishing your shutters, use a high-quality exterior grade paint or stain with UV inhibitors. Regular cleaning and re-application of finish every few years will further extend the life of your shutters in New Orleans.
A Note About New Orleans
You can't walk more than a few blocks in the French Quarter without seeing shutters. But beyond just historical charm, they're a key element of energy efficiency here. Many older homes were designed to use shutters to control airflow and block out the intense Louisiana sun, a tradition that continues today in both restorations and new builds.
Browse Custom Wood Shutters Styles
Louvered Shutters
Board and Batten Shutters
Bahama Shutters
Raised Panel Shutters
Flat Panel Shutters
Combination Shutters
Ships Direct to New Orleans, LA
Every piece is handcrafted to your exact specifications in our Pennsylvania workshop and shipped directly to your door in approximately 4 weeks.
Frequently Asked Questions
What type of wood shutter is best for hurricane protection in New Orleans?
While no shutter is hurricane-proof without additional reinforcement, Bahama shutters offer the best combination of storm protection and everyday functionality. When properly secured, they can help protect windows from flying debris. Consider impact-rated options for maximum protection.
How does Estate Millwork ship custom wood shutters to New Orleans?
We ship our custom-built shutters directly to your New Orleans address via trusted freight carriers. Each shutter is carefully packaged and crated to ensure safe arrival. We provide tracking information, so you can monitor your order's progress.
How often should I refinish my wood shutters in New Orleans?
Given New Orleans's humid and sunny climate, we recommend refinishing your exterior wood shutters every 3-5 years. Regularly inspect your shutters for signs of wear, such as cracking, peeling paint, or discoloration, and address any issues promptly.
Get a Free Instant Quote for Custom Wood Shutters in New Orleans
Our state of the art designers allow you to design and build completely customized custom wood shutters to fit your exact needs.
Questions or concerns contact us here or via 412.641.0177.
Design Your Custom ShuttersBrowse Custom Doors & Shutters →
Need Help?
Contact Us @ 412.641.0177
Popular in New Orleans
Other Locations
- Dallas, TX
- Houston, TX
- Miami, FL
- Atlanta, GA
- Charlotte, NC
- Nashville, TN
- Charleston, SC
- Savannah, GA
- Austin, TX
- San Antonio, TX