Bahama Shutters - Adding Elegance and Curb Appeal to your Home:

Bahama Shutters, also called Bermuda Shutters, are gaining popularity across the country. Originally used in the Caribbean, they were designed for added protection from hurricanes. Bahama Shutters no longer appear exclusively in coastal areas. Many other parts of the country are discovering their unique advantages. Although they function as storm shutters, Bahama Shutters add an elegant touch to homes, increasing the curb appeal. The distinctive feature of Bahama shutters is that they are hinged from the top, rather than the sides. They attach above the window (on the outside of the structure), and may be propped open to give shade to the window. The hinges allow for the shutters to be opened at varying degrees, allowing the homeowner to take advantage of breezes to cool the home. Because there is only one shutter per window, Bahama Shutters are much wider than other outdoor shutters.

Installation on most homes is fairly simple, and Bahama Shutters come in a variety of materials, including wood, aluminum, and fiberglass. Wood is the traditional favorite because it presents an authentic, historical look, and is generally more affordable than other materials. Wood is extremely durable. Because it is easy to repaint, you can change the appearance of your home easily. The most common are made of western red cedar and redwood. The major drawbacks to wood (rotting, insects), are minimized with proper maintenance.

Fiberglass shutters are the most expensive, and may be the best choice if you live in an area with extreme weather conditions. Fiberglass shutters may be washed easily and they can even have the look of wood. Cleaning is as simple as hosing them down, or simply wiping with a rag. Because they are so durable, they often come with lengthy warranties. Fiberglass shutters come in a variety of colors, but they are more difficult to paint than wood.

Aluminum shutters are extremely lightweight, and easy to close, but they are not as durable as wood or fiberglass. The finish is does not fade easily, and resists corrosion and peeling.

Advantages of exterior shutters include:

• Easy to install
• Decorative appearance
• Insulation protection from heat or cold
• Protection from storms
• Privacy
• Make windows appear larger
• Security
• Noise filter
• Protection from fading
• Fast and easy to close

When choosing outdoor shutters, the region of the country determines the benefits most important to the consumer. Those who live in coastal regions are concerned about protection from storms, while those who live in the Midwest are more interested in insulation, privacy, security and curb appeal. Those who live in extreme regions such as the Deep South or the North/Northeast will notice huge savings on electricity. Additional savings include decreased fading of drapery, furniture, and flooring due to sunlight.

The primary complaint about Bahama shutters is that the room is considerably darker due to the lack of sunlight coming through. Even when the shutters are open, the amount of sunlight is greatly diminished. Although some sunlight will come in while the shutters are open, additional lighting may be needed.

Without a doubt, Bahama shutters increase the curb appeal of your home. But the price spent on this improvement more than pays for itself in energy savings, extra security, and storm protection as well as the decorative aspect. Whether you live in a coastal region or in the heartland, this is one home improvement you will be glad you did!