Comparing Vinyl vs Wood Shutters
When it comes to comparing materials for plantation shutters in San Carlos, CA, you have to go beyond the price tag. You need to think about style, maintenance, and performance. Both materials have advantages and some disadvantages. To help you choose the right shutter material for your home, here is a point by point break down. These are the pros and cons of both vinyl and wood shutters from San Francisco Shutters Co.
Pros of Vinyl Shutters
Polyvinyl chloride (PVC) is a widely used construction material. It is light weight, durable, and definitely worth considering. Typically a high quality vinyl shutter will cost less than natural or composite wood. But even more important are the practical advantages. Vinyl is water resistant. These shutters are perfect for use over a bathroom or kitchen window. They are also a great choice for humid areas like shower enclosures, solariums, or near Jacuzzis. Your shutters will not warp, flake, or mold. This material is also better insulator, and is flame-retardant.
Cons of Vinyl Shutters
Like Polybilt shutters, vinyl comes in limited color choices. Typically you can choose white or off-white, with a limited selection of other neutrals. Sometimes this is just what customers are looking for. But if you want to match an existing color in your home or customize, then vinyl might not be the right material choice. You cannot paint, stain, or refinish vinyl shutters. Also, PVC shutters have a plastic, shiny look that might be appealing to you in all your living areas. Lastly, vinyl shutters do not come in wider slat sizes and can’t cover an area larger than 29 inches wide. Vinyl is too flexible, and requires other support materials to prevent sagging.
Pros of Wood Shutters
These are perfect if you want a natural, traditional, and authentic look. Natural wood allows for rich color variations and the esthetic of real wood. The most common woods used in shutters include poplar and basswood. Not only are these beautiful, but durable. In choosing real wood shutters you have unlimited color choices. You can match your interior trim or use natural stains that bring out the beautiful grain. These woods are also lightweight, which allows for greater versatility and easy operation. Wood shutters can also have wider slat sizes, because they are not as likely to sag on the hinges.
Cons of Wood Shutters
While beautiful and versatile, wood shutters are often the most expensive choice in window coverings. Fortunately you can often wrap the cost of shutters into the purchase of your home, because if you sell, the shutters would remain in the home. Wood shutters, which are oftentimes called plantation shutters, are also susceptible to moisture, mold, and pests. You want to be sure to routinely clean and maintain shutters to keep them looking like new.
Whether vinyl or wood shutters, you are likely to be completely satisfied with the beauty and function of these installations. Both maintain their value in San Carlos, CA, better than any other window coverings. Do you have concerns or questions about vinyl and wood shutters? Do not hesitate to call us at (650) 552-9020 or visit us at 1676 Gilbreth Rd. Burlingame, CA 94010.