Colonial Revival architecture, with its timeless elegance and echoes of America's past, captivates homeowners and history buffs alike. A key element contributing to this style's distinctive charm is the use of shutters. But understanding the nuances of shutters on Colonial Revival houses goes beyond simple aesthetics; it delves into history, function, and the preservation of architectural integrity. This guide explores everything you need to know about these important features.
What are Colonial Revival Shutters?
Colonial Revival architecture draws inspiration from the 17th and 18th-century colonial styles of the American colonies. Shutters, therefore, play a significant role in replicating the look of these historic homes. They're typically made from wood, often painted a contrasting color to the house's siding, and frequently feature raised panels or louvers. The size and placement of the shutters are crucial to maintaining the architectural authenticity. While they can be purely decorative, historically, their primary purpose was functional.
What is the Purpose of Shutters on a Colonial Revival House?
Historically, shutters served practical purposes beyond mere decoration.
Protection from the Elements: This is their most important original function. Shutters provided protection from harsh weather—intense sun, driving rain, and even snow—helping to preserve the integrity of the underlying windows and walls.
Security: In earlier times, shutters offered a degree of security, acting as a barrier against intruders. Closing them at night added an extra layer of protection to the home.
Privacy: Shutters provided privacy, allowing residents to control the level of visibility into their home.
What are the Different Types of Colonial Revival House Shutters?
Several shutter styles complement Colonial Revival homes. The most common include:
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Board and Batten Shutters: These shutters feature wide vertical boards separated by narrower strips of wood called battens. They're a classic and enduring choice, reflecting the simplicity of early colonial design.
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Louvered Shutters: Louvered shutters consist of horizontal slats, allowing for air circulation while still offering some degree of shading and privacy. They are often seen on slightly more ornate Colonial Revival homes.
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Raised Panel Shutters: Raised panel shutters feature recessed panels, adding a touch of elegance and sophistication to the exterior. These tend to be more common on larger, more formal Colonial Revival homes.
How to Choose the Right Shutters for Your Colonial Revival Home?
Selecting the appropriate shutters involves considering several factors:
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Architectural Style: The style of your home dictates the appropriate shutter style. Research historical examples of similar homes to gain inspiration.
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Scale and Proportion: The size and number of shutters must be proportionate to the windows and the overall size of the house. Overly large or small shutters can disrupt the visual balance.
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Material: Wood remains the traditional material, offering authenticity and durability. However, vinyl or fiberglass alternatives offer lower-maintenance options.
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Color: The color of your shutters should complement, rather than clash with, the exterior paint color of your home. Contrasting colors are often chosen to create visual interest.
What Size Shutters Should I Use on My Colonial Revival Home?
The size of your shutters should be carefully considered to ensure they are proportionate to your windows. Ideally, shutters should be slightly wider than the window frame itself, extending a few inches on either side. The height should typically match or slightly exceed the height of the window.
How Much Do Colonial Revival Shutters Cost?
The cost of Colonial Revival shutters varies depending on several factors, including material, size, style, and whether you purchase pre-made or custom-made shutters. Custom-made wood shutters will typically be more expensive than pre-made vinyl or fiberglass alternatives.
Are there Modern Alternatives to Traditional Colonial Revival Shutters?
While traditional wood shutters remain the most authentic choice for a Colonial Revival home, modern alternatives such as vinyl or composite materials provide durable and low-maintenance options. However, always consider how these materials might impact the overall aesthetic and historical accuracy of your home.
By carefully considering these factors, homeowners can select shutters that enhance the beauty and historical accuracy of their Colonial Revival homes while providing practical functionality. Remember, authenticity and careful attention to detail are key to preserving the integrity of this timeless architectural style.
