What Shutters Should I Buy?

Wondering what shutters you should buy? It depends on your space and priorities. MDF shutters are great for affordable style in dry rooms, ABS shutters offer waterproofing and durability for kitchens and bathrooms, and hardwood shutters provide a luxurious, long-lasting finish for statement spaces. Match the material to your needs for the best results.

In this guide we’ll walk through the pros and cons of each material, explain which rooms they’re best suited for, and help you choose a type of shutter that suits your needs.

MDF Shutters – a practical option for everyday living

Made from medium density fibreboard, MDF shutters are engineered for strength and coated with a durable polymer finish that resists everyday wear and tear.

Pros of MDF Shutters

Cost-effective

MDF shutters are among the most affordable shutters on the market. They’re an ever-popular choice for budget-conscious homeowners.

Durable

The polymer coating of MDF shutters provides a tough, low maintenance surface that can be wiped clean.

Stylish

Available in a variety of colours to complement different interior design styles.

Versatile

MDF shutters are suitable for many rooms in the house and, like all other shutters, they have an ageless quality that outlasts changing interior design trends.

Cons of MDF Shutters

Lacks water resistance

MDF is vulnerable to moisture, so it’s not suitable for high-humidity areas like bathrooms and kitchens.

Heavier than wood

If you’re installing multiple shutters in one space or you have extra large windows, the weight of MDF shutters might be something you need to take into consideration.

What are the best rooms for MDF shutters?

Living rooms, bedrooms, home offices, hallways and other high-traffic areas are all suitable for MDF shutters. Basically, anywhere in your house except the kitchen and bathroom, as these shutters aren’t the most water-resistant.

If you’re renovating on a budget or looking for a low-maintenance window treatment that doesn’t require constant upkeep, MDF shutters are a great choice. Their robust design and easy-care finish make them extra appealing for busy family homes.

ABS Shutters – a waterproof shutter for high-humidity areas

When moisture is a concern, ABS shutters are the go-to solution. These shutters are crafted from Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene, a type of high-grade plastic. They are known for their waterproof construction and exceptional durability.

Pros of ABS Shutters

Water-resistant

ABS shutters won’t crack, warp or peel, even in bathrooms. They’re built specifically for wet and humid spaces.

High durability

These shutters are ideal for everyday use. They resist dents, chips and scratches

Lightweight but strong

ABS shutters are easier to handle and install, even if you have extra large windows in your home.

Range of finishes

We have 18 different colours to choose from. If you want something more specific and personalised, we also offer custom colour options.

Cons of ABS Shutters

Higher price point

ABS is more expensive than MDF. However, it is cheaper than Hardwood.

Limited textures

Since ABS is plastic-based, it doesn’t offer the same woodgrain effect as timber.

What are the best rooms for ABS Shutters?

Bathrooms, kitchens, and utility rooms are all perfect for ABS shutters. If you live on the coast or in a humid climate, you may want to consider ABS shutters for more of the rooms in your home.

Want shutters that look great and stand up to steam and accidental splashes? ABS shutters offer the peace of mind you’re looking for.

Hardwood Shutters – a luxury shutter for design lovers

If you’re looking for a premium window treatment, hardwood shutters are difficult to beat. They’re constructed from solid basswood panels with engineered frames, giving them excellent structural integrity.

Pros of Hardwood Shutters

Natural beauty

With their unique grain patterns from the timber, hardwood shutters are undoubtedly the most beautiful of the three options.

Lightweight and strong

Hardwood is a surprisingly light material, so it’s perfect for wide or tall windows.

Great insulation

These shutters can help you maintain a comfortable indoor climate even in the cold winter months or the heat of summer.

Fully customisable

We offer 18 standard finishes, or you can create your own bespoke colour.

Cons of Hardwood Shutters

Premium pricing

Hardwood is the most expensive of the three materials.

Sensitive to moisture

While hardwood shutters are sealed for protection, it’s not recommended for very humid rooms. Wood is prone to warping in high moisture environments.

Maintenance required

Requires a little more care than MDF and ABS, especially in homes with high humidity. It is not recommended to wipe your hardwood shutters with a wet cloth as you would with MDF or ABS.

Which rooms are best for hardwood shutters?

Hardwood shutters fit right in wherever you want to make a statement; lounges, master bedrooms, and dining rooms. They look especially good on bay windows. If you have irregular or unusually shaped windows, hardwood shutters can often be custom made to fit where other shutters would not do the trick.

So… What shutters should you buy?

The right shutters for your home depend on a few key things:

Is the room humid? Choose ABS for unbeatable water resistance.

Need something budget-friendly? MDF offers great value and easy maintenance.

Want more of a luxurious finish? Choose Hardwood to make a lasting impression.

Ultimately, there’s no one-size-fits all answer to this question. Each material offers its own pros and cons. Think about your lifestyle, budget, and where the shutters will be installed.