If you own a condo or home in Montgomery County Maryland, chances are good that you already have some type of window coverings installed, like blinds, shades or curtains but did you ever stop to consider adding shutters to that same collection? If you haven’t yet started considering installing them, then this article will help get you thinking about it. We’ll walk through everything you need to know starting with research and buying options available, including both manufactured products and custom made. Once you’ve decided which direction you’d like to go with the project, we talk about selecting the correct size and configuration for each individual space in your home while also covering basic install methods and troubleshooting tips. Lastly, once they’re hung we take a brief tour around your windows and explain why they really work great for residential applications as well as offering our recommendations for other types of furniture you could put underneath them.

California weather is known for being unpredictable—and sometimes harsh. Even in some of the mildest regions throughout the country like Minnesota, Wisconsin and Michigan, winters can be cold enough to freeze pipes. For homeowners in these regions who have already invested in beautiful home improvements but still haven’t gotten around to installing shutters, they’re definitely feeling the pain when winter arrives. While many people believe shutters only work well in climates colder than 70 degrees Fahrenheit, this isn’t true; they also provide energy conservation benefits year round. Plus, many areas have high humidity levels year round which cause condensation issues. So whether or not you live somewhere warm or cool or anywhere in between, shutters will help keep the air inside your home nice and dry and reduce energy costs while providing privacy and protection against light trespass. In general, most homes built today use aluminum or vinyl exterior siding. Vinyl siding lasts longer than painted brick or stone, however, paint tends to fade away after years of exposure to UV rays, sunlight and moisture. Vinyl siding won’t peel away from wooden trim boards and it’s waterproof and resistant to insects and pests, making it ideal for all parts of your house including bedrooms, porches, patios and basements. Aluminium is great because it offers durability and insulation qualities similar to glass windows without giving your space an expensive windowless appearance. However, aluminium does come with drawbacks that include needing regular maintenance and requiring proper ventilation to prevent corrosion. Aluminum siding comes in several colors, patterns and textures to suit every style and taste, offering options for those seeking modern contemporary looks or traditional colonial styles. When it comes to choosing which type of material should go on top of windows and doors, metal siding is usually preferable due to its ability to resist rusting, chipping, peeling, flaking and warping and withstand extreme temperatures ranging from freezing down to 120°F plus humidity changes. Wood siding is another popular choice since it’s extremely affordable, lightweight and durable. Some types of wood used specifically for shutters include redwood, cedar, cypress, poplar or pine.

This article will cover both vinyl and real wooden shutters which offer some significant advantages and drawbacks… Vinyl California Shutters are made from 100% recycled materials. They come in various sizes and styles with attractive graphics that match every décor perfectly. However they cannot be used outdoors because they’re vulnerable to harsh weather conditions like snow and ice buildup. Unlike traditional wood shutters which can be installed outside under certain circumstances, vinyl shutters must always remain indoors due to this limitation. However vinyl shadings can be applied to window frames or other surfaces easily and without hassle. This fact makes them ideal for use anywhere around the home, unlike true wood products which should only be mounted inside walls or windows during installation.
Vinyl shutters are easier to install. They simply snap onto frames and most vinyl models include hardware kits for easy mounting onto drywall, siding, brick and stone. Some vinyl shutters even feature hanging brackets for easy wall mounting. Their ease of installation gives homeowners a great advantage when considering purchase decisions. In addition to ease of installation, another positive aspect of vinyl is affordability. Many manufacturers provide great discounts on multiple blinds to encourage customers into making multiple purchases. If you already own some beautiful wood shutters, then vinyl could fit right in next door. No matter whether they stay in rooms or move outside, vinyl shutters are durable and reliable. Because they won’t rot, warp, crack, chip or splinter, they’re suitable for outdoor installations for those who worry about weather fluctuations. Vinyl panels protect against moisture damage thanks to an internal water barrier. Since vinyl shades are manufactured with UV filtering material, these products help shield your family from harmful rays while reducing heat gain in summer months. Additionally, you’ll enjoy energy savings since they block sun penetration from behind glass surfaces rather than having to paint entire exterior sides. A wide range of colors and designs ensure that whatever style you’d prefer matches your existing decor. Vinyl offers many benefits but still lacks weather resistance. Weather resistant shutters offer better protection against rain, wind and dust storms. For example, high quality aluminum clad wood shutters perform admirably to withstand heavy winds and prolonged exposure to salty environments.

Installing your own custom made wooden shutters is no small task. If you aren’t experienced there is nothing worse than spending thousands of dollars installing bad windows only to find out they are unusable once installed because they leak water behind them. We understand this frustration and can help eliminate those headaches! When selecting windows & doors it should be noted that California window shutter installation companies often charge anywhere from $1,500-$4,000 per door set depending on many factors which include size, location, material selection, trim options, color schemes, hardware selections, design details, etc. Some home improvement stores offer discounts however these prices will still apply for most of the above mentioned considerations. For example, some homeowners have paid approximately $3,000 for 1×6 interior panels from various manufacturers which would mean each panel costs over $30/panel on average (assuming this price does not include labor, shipping or other applicable fees). While this cost of entry is high, it is definitely worth it considering California Shutters come in several different styles and sizes. Below are some general guidelines regarding materials used in building, installing, maintenance and overall quality of California shutters which may help you determine whether installing your own shutters instead of paying someone else’s bill sounds like something you could get excited about doing today.
What Are Wooden Shutters Made Of?: One big factor that separates the majority of California window shutter products available from a high end product is that most of the cheaper windows have plastic rather than wood frames. Most people assume all shutters are constructed completely from solid wood; but while they may be built entirely of wood, sometimes less expensive ones use thinner composite lumber (often treated pine), particle board, plywood or MDF to hold together the frame, glass and mounting hardware. A typical California Shutter will usually consist of 5 parts (aside from the screen assembly); the weatherization system, weatherstripping components, exterior cladding pieces (usually aluminum), frame rails, panels and screen assemblies. The weatherstopping component includes either metal clips, vinyl tape strips, foam seals or caulking applied around the entire perimeter of the opening.

There’s something amazing about watching a beautiful movie projected onto screens suspended high above the ground’s surface–and this experience can be enhanced further when motorized curtains open in sync with scene changes. At Shutterboys, we’ve seen firsthand just how dramatically people enjoy having these kinds of experiences in their homes and offices across Maryland, Virginia and DC. We’re proud to offer a wide range of motorized shutters to meet everyone’s needs—including both classic window treatments like roller shades and pleated curtains. And with state incentives available through Montgomery County and Prince George’s county and special programs offered through Loudoun and Fairfax counties, residents are able to save thousands of dollars on energy bills while simultaneously taking advantage of tax rebates and other financial benefits provided. Our team of experts will provide you with a consultation/estimate to help determine which model is most suitable for your home or office building(s). Whether you’d prefer a fixed panel shade paired with automated blinds, traditional wooden slats, motorized vertical sheer panels or perhaps some combination thereof — no matter what style suits your preferences best, our selection is boundless. All models come equipped with sophisticated motors, custom built hardware and top quality fabrics, ensuring years of durability and beauty. So, whether you live, work or play in Rockville, MD, VA & DC, please reach out to us today to learn more about options available — and get started saving big bucks without being burdened with unnecessary maintenance costs.

What should I buy? Well, this depends entirely upon how many windows you will be covering, but in general terms, most homeowners and home improvement companies spend anywhere from $1-$6 per square foot just for blinds. For California shutters, which can range in price from roughly half to twice that amount depending on the model. The cost increases the closer to the ceiling they go.
If my roof slopes, would shutters work better than other types of window treatments like storm/drapes or shades? Yes, because they won’t get hung at odd angles due to slope. They’re typically designed specifically for homes with sloping roofs. Storm drapes and curtains often become awkward to use and install and sometimes don’t come without some extra material or construction costs. If your house already has them installed, ask whether the company uses special high quality materials to keep them secure while still allowing adequate air circulation.
Should I DIY or hire someone else? You could certainly try doing it yourself, but there’s actually no reason why you couldn’t find a professional installer who’ll put in a few hours’ worth of skilled labor as well. However, if you take advantage of the savings offered on average by installing through a contractor, chances are pretty good that you could save hundreds of dollars in labour costs. And then you get something installed professionally that looks great, lasts forever, adds value, keeps warm in winter and cool in summer…
When should I expect delivery? We offer in store pick up service for orders under 5 yards and 3 days in transit times for larger projects, however, as soon as we receive your order, we’ll contact your preferred installer or contractor immediately who will schedule a date & time that fits around your needs. Then once everything gets finalized, we ship it directly to you within 7 business days through FedEx Ground shipping. Once shipped, please allow 48 hours in transit time before checking package status. If you’d prefer 2nd day express shipping, check out our Express Shipping options above. Note: You must provide us with phone numbers for both your contractor and their main contact person prior to ordering.

This post will discuss how and why people install shutters in their home or condo. We’ll then show examples of different types of installations. Finally, we’ll talk about some things to consider before buying shutters. If you have questions after reading this post, please feel free to reach us via email or phone.
In this day & age, most homeowners are choosing the “do-it yourself” route whenever possible. But, if you’d rather hire someone else, you should be prepared to have them take care of a few details. Here are five tips to help ensure everything goes smoothly.
1. Make sure they provide written quotes for each project. Most companies offer free estimates, but that doesn’t mean anything unless it includes a price tag. You want to get a firm idea of what your final cost will be so you aren’t surprised once work begins. Also ask if the quote covers multiple locations. Many installers won’t cover multiple jobs because it can become costly.
2. Have them send photos along with every estimate. A lot of DIY projects involve lots of measuring and cutting, which makes estimating easier. If they only include drawings or floorplans, they may miss something like door widths, windows sizes, or other measurements. Having pictures helps you visualize exactly what they’re talking about.
3. Ask how long they expect the job to take and whether there will be additional costs due to unforeseen conditions. If you need the window shutters installed ASAP, ask if there will be rush fees. Some contractors charge extra when working under pressure, while others will only bill for the amount worked during normal business hours.
4. Check references. Ask who they recommend, what kind of customer service they received, and how satisfied customers are overall.
5. Do a walkthrough. Once they arrive, check that the workers are doing things correctly and that nothing is left undone. They shouldn’t leave without signing the paperwork and leaving you with a clear understanding of how everything was handled.
If you decide to go the self-installation route, these 5 tips will save you headaches down the road.

In this post I will be discussing some of the most popular trends in both exterior home shuttering and interior window shading products. As always, these changes are subject to change in the months ahead. But, here they are:
Window Shading Trends for 2022:
1. Shades that can easily move. These shades offer a great deal of flexibility in terms of being able to adjust them from the outside of your property. They come in many shapes and sizes. Some are retractable while other are fixed. They can either slide along rails, roll up like a roller shade, fold up like Venetian blinds, or pivot around a hinge.
2. More natural light control. There are several ways that you can achieve this. One way is using louvers to allow sunlight in but prevent heat gain. Another approach would be using light filters which help regulate the amount of light coming through the windows and doors. Filters work well in rooms with high ceilings because they block glare from overhead lights.
3. Larger than average windows. We are seeing larger windows becoming increasingly popular. These include double hung and sliding glass windows. The reason why people love large windows is because they allow lots of natural light and also provide privacy when desired.
4. New styles and finishes. The trend toward new designs continues. Many homeowners are opting to go beyond traditional options and opt for something different. For instance, instead of installing a single pane of glass that covers the entire window, there are now double glazed versions available.
5. Customized solutions. People who install custom made shutters often use them as part of a total design solution. For example, they could be installed on an existing door frame. Or, they could be added onto a patio cover. Whatever the case, shutters should enhance the overall appearance rather than replace the original structure entirely.
6. Smart technology. There is also increasing interest in integrating smart devices into our homes. For instance, some people have connected garage door openers to their smartphones, making opening their garage easier. Others use motion sensors to automatically activate lighting or heating systems when someone leaves a house.

California shutters are window coverings made from vinyl material often found around the world. They come with various patterns and colors which include modern design choices and traditional materials. When choosing a California shade be mindful of the following;
Wooden frames are most commonly used in order to provide insulation, reduce heat loss and increase energy efficiency while adding beauty to any home or office setting. Wooden shades offer warmth during cool months thanks to their natural insulating characteristics, but they lose this capability during hot and humid summer days because of the tendency of wooden frame’s expansion causing gaps around the windows. However, some brands use metal framing instead of wood in order to stay warm throughout the seasons.
Metal blinds are typically chosen by homeowners who prefer light weight and affordability but find themselves needing more privacy than standard opaque shades allow. These types of blinds are easier to install since they’re lighter than other styles.
Aluminium framing uses aluminium rather than steel or timber but retains its lightweight qualities. Aluminium framing does however cost more than both wood and iron framing due to the higher price associated with raw aluminum.
Most manufacturers offer customisable options including colour schemes and sizes to ensure each style looks unique. Most of these options are available through the internet and installation companies. Some brands feature multiple products ranging from decorative window valances and panels to roller shutters and storm screen protection. While it’s recommended to purchase a complete package deal like those offered by Shutterboy, customers can save by buying individual pieces individually according to preference. Be sure to check with your installer regarding potential warranty coverage for California shingles especially if you purchased them elsewhere than the company selling them. Your installer will usually carry a full replacement policy during the initial period of your contract, but after this point coverage varies depending upon whether they continue working under your original terms or switch carriers. If your installer refuses to guarantee the integrity of the workmanship then you should reconsider hiring him/her in general. A good service provider will always go above and beyond the minimum requirements to protect customer satisfaction.
Customisation Options
For the ultimate experience consider upgrading the following items within your shutter package.
Roller Shades Roller shades offer many attractive benefits and can easily complement almost every type of building.

We believe the true artistry lies in choosing the perfect material
and applying unique finishes with the proper color palettes
that complement each other perfectly. Our mission with every project is to bring a timeless design aesthetic to life. Every shuttered window will be built according to these standards and expectations. And, most importantly, when we say “we guarantee this,” we mean it. We stand behind the quality craftsmanship of each job we complete. If anything happens during the construction of your home or office building, we promise to correct it. No matter how big or small your remodel is, if something goes awry on our end, just pick up the phone or send us an email; and we’ll work around your schedule to get things back running smoothly again.
Our Guarantees:
1 Year Warranty: All products sold through ShutterBoy.com come backed with a 1yr warranty against defects in materials & workmanship.
Installation Services: Each order includes FREE professional installation service, no questions asked. Installation is available anywhere across the U.S.. This way, you won’t ever worry about getting stuck installing them yourself after hours while trying to save some cash.
Free Shipping/Return Policy: Free return shipping for all online orders. Orders must be shipped within 30 days of purchase.
2 Year Limited Warranty: For additional peace of mind you’ll receive 2 years of coverage under our standard residential replacement policy for your windows & doors.
What does that really mean? When a storm hits, you’re covered. A tree falls in the yard, you’re protected. Your home could take a fire, well then your home’s insured. But with a commercial property insurance claim you’d still only receive $100k worth of coverage per incident — which isn’t nearly enough! So why should your business’ liability coverage be different? Because that extra $500-$600 you pay could cover thousands of dollars worth of repairs, replacing damaged inventory or equipment, hiring temporary help, reworking lost productivity…it’s the cost of doing business!
If you’ve got multiple buildings or locations, a multi-location package makes sense.

In this post I will provide you with my top 3 picks for 2020 and my Top 5 picks for 2021. If you aren’t familiar with them they’re great products that offer superior quality and craftsmanship. They come from reputable manufacturers and feature amazing materials like solid wood, metal, bamboo & cedar and many other options including vinyl.
I hope these tips help you get started when choosing which shutters you need for your home.
If you’re interested in reading some reviews about each type of shutter check out my past posts below…
Best California Shutters For Your Home:
Top 10 California Exterior Shutters Reviews, Reviews And Buying Guides | How To Install A Wood Door | Vinyl vs Timber Cladding
California Shutter Buyer’s Guide Part 1: Types Of Shutters | DIY Wooden Window Treatments For Interior Design Ideas
California Best Sellers 2019 – The Most Popular California Shutter Brands! (Best Selling Vinyl Shutters 2019!)
1. Bamboo Veneers
2. Solid Oak Slats / Boards
3. Cedar Clad Wood Panels
4. Aluminum Shutters
5. Wrought Iron Shuttered Doors
6. Wood Door Frames / Stiles
7. Metal Window Coverings
8. Aluminium Blinds & Roller Shades
9. Custom Made Glass Windows
10. Fiberglass Doors / Double Hungs
11. Casement/Climbing/French Doors
12. Wood & Steel Framed Window Treatments
13. Venetian Shutters
14. Roll Up Blinds
15. Vertical Blinds
16. Casement/Baywindows
This guide covers everything you need to consider while selecting the perfect door style for yourself.

For most people, buying a home is an exciting and life changing event. But for those who live in areas prone to severe weather events, buying a home could be devastating. These storms bring heavy rains and winds causing water damage and destruction. As soon as flooding occurs, most homeowners try to protect themselves but sometimes flood waters can cause structural damages making a house uninhabitable.