Because wood shutters are natural insulators they can be used to lower your energy costs by keeping the elements out. That was their original purpose and why you almost never see a historic house that does not have shutters. Shutters are not just decorative any more than ceiling fans are only decorative. Many now use ceiling fans to reduce the costs of heating and cooling their homes and shutters are even more effective.

Shutters and ceiling fans became less essential because of the introduction of heating and air conditioning. Just as ceiling fans made a comeback to save energy, it would be wise to start using shutters again to save money by moderating temperatures in our homes.

Stand near a window when the sun is shining on it and touch it with your hand. No matter how cold it is outside that window will be extremely warm. On cold days and especially when the wind is blowing directly on your windows, the area near them will be colder than other areas.

When you have exterior shutters you can open and close them selectively. Just close the shutters during the winter on the window where the north wind howls the strongest. In the summer leave the shutter closed on the window where the sun shines the strongest as it rises or sets. Adjust your shutters daily, seasonally, or only when a storm is on the way.

Besides lowering the cost of heating and cooling your home, shutters also protect your draperies, furniture, flooring and carpeting from UV damage from sunlight. Did you know that three of the four most commonly used types of carpet (wool, nylon and olefin) have poor resistance to sunlight? Only polyester has good sunlight resistance and even it can be damaged.

Draperies deteriorate continually when exposed to sunlight. Dark and bright colors fade and streak faster and eventually the fabrics dry rot. Even though acrylic and polyster hold up better than cotton, rayon and acetate, all are damaged by exposure to the sun.

Sun damages your furniture just as much as it does your draperies and carpets. Wood dries out, upholstery fabrics fade, streak and rot, and leather furniture is especially susceptible. Furniture should be positioned out of the direct sun or protected by closing your shutters.

By reducing your heating and cooling costs and protecting the investments you have made in furniture, flooring, carpeting and draperies, shutters are extremely beneficial. The next step is to decide what shutter styles you prefer and where to buy them. The lowest prices and best quality come from buying direct from the manufacturer – but they can be a real challenge to locate. Visit our Pricing Exterior Shutters Hubpage to see a photo slideshow of types of shutters and find manufacturers who sell directly to the public.

Spend less and buy better quality Exterior Wood Shutters by buying directly from the manufacturer. Manufacturing plants can be challenging to find so go to Frank Wright’s Hubpage for more details and where to buy Wooden Shutters. Don’t miss the beautiful photograph slide show there.