Decide where you'd like to place your window shutters

An exterior window shutter can be purely decorative or it can protect your windows from the elements. Interior shutters can be part of your interior decorating scheme or also be used to control the amount of light. If needed, you can use both interior and exterior shutters in some circumstances.

I recommend: Shutter Land sells wood interior and exterior shutters. Architectural Depot has a range of shutters available, including Bahama shutters for window protection.

Choose the material for your window shutters

Wooden shutters are a popular choice for interior shutters, particularly in a plantation shutter style. Vinyl shutters are a durable, easy to clean choice for the exterior and advances in technology have made them more attractive than ever. From a distance, the average eye won't be able to tell vinyl exterior shutters from more expensive wood ones.

I recommend: Shutter Directory can help you find a manufacturer for the type of window shutter material that you want.

Consider how much work you want to do on a window shutter

You may be able to purchase unfinished shutters for less money than finished ones, if you're willing to do the work. Likewise, you'll need to decide whether you want to have the shutters hung professionally or if you feel comfortable doing it yourself.

I recommend: If you buy from a local source like Lowe’s, ask about installation services.

Order custom shutters if your windows are an unusual size or you need other customization

For some windows, depending on size and shape, you may need to order custom shutters. If you order online, the site should provide measuring instructions to get your windows the proper fit.

I recommend: Horizon Shutters customizes each interior shutter that they construct for your windows.