How Composite Raised Panel Shutters are Built
Construction begins with large sheets of Extira, an engineered wood product made from wood fibers compacted with marine-grade resins. Extira is specifically manufactured for moisture-rich outside applications, and it is ideal for the construction of raised panel shutters. Composite shutters are largely unaffected by extreme temperature fluctuation and humidity conditions. Individual components are milled and secured with industrial strength exterior adhesives and stainless steel staples.
The resulting raised panel shutter is virtually indistinguishable from the same style constructed from premium wood. The defining raised panel section is shaped with a central plateau with beveled edges. The elevated plane produces an illusion of depth and captivates the eye. This iconic style has been used on American homes since colonial times and is still widely utilized on new construction today.
Composite raised panels cut on a diagonal exposes the embedded wood fibers that can cause the surface to become slightly rougher than the face. This standard characteristic is universal and unavoidable. Sanding causes wood fibers to dislodge, resulting in more craters. Filling with wood putty results in an inconsistent patchy complexion, which is also not desirable. The texture difference is noticeable when handling the shutters but generally imperceptible after they are installed.
Raised panel shutters are stylistically appropriate on Colonial, Georgian, and Plantation-Plain style homes. Historically, raised panel shutters were used for room darkening, privacy on the first story, severe weather protection and security from intruders in extreme situations.
Variations of the raised panel style include both flat panel or groove panel shutters.
Configuration Options of Raised Panel Shutters
Raised panel shutters can be tailored to best match the window on which they will be installed. The width and height can be specified to the 0.25 inch. Exterior shutters under 70 inches may be made with a single raised panel from top to bottom. A divider rail, which creates top and bottom raised panel areas, is optional at any height but required for shutters taller than 70 inches for stability. If desired, a second divider rail can be added for no additional charge. Use the composite shutter measuring instructions to determine the correct dimensions to order.
Arch top shutters are manufactured with a curved top to mimic the lines of a rounded window. A springline measurement will need to be recorded to achieve the correct radius. Use the arch top measuring instructions for the best results.
Installation of Composite Shutters
Composite shutters are most often installed in a fixed position. L-shaped polycarbonate mounting brackets are included with every composite shutter order to affix shutters in place so they will not move. The installation bracket is optional and it is not required to be used. Alternatively, composite shutters can be installed to be stationary with screws through the face.
Using functional exterior shutter hardware, composite shutters can be installed to swing open and closed. Composite shutters are heavier than traditional wood shutters resulting in the need for additional hinge support. Note that Extira shutters only have one presentable side, so they will not be as attractive when rotated over the window.
Raised Panel Composite Shutter Paint Colors
Composite raised panel exterior shutters can be shipped unfinished, primed, or factory painted. The composite material can be difficult to properly prime, so is strongly recommend that they be ordered either primed or fully painted. Two or three coats of primer, with a light sanding with 220-grit sandpaper between coats, should result in a smooth, sealed surface, ready to accept paint.
On site DIY painting is relatively easy because of the large expanse of flat surface. The Extira composite material finishes equally well with water-based, oil-based or lacquer-based paint. Most paint stores will specify a combination of primer and paint that will be most effective. It is best to avoid an all-in-one combination paint-primer. A brush, roller or spray gun can all be efficient in applying the paint. We typically suggest two coats of exterior paint to ensure the shutters are well protected.
Ordering factory-painted composite raised panel shutters is a great choice for homeowners who want to receive shutters ready to install immediately. After fully priming and sealing the shutters, we professionally spray two coats of PPG Break-Through paint in a satin sheen. This paint is specially designed for excellent adhesion and gives uniform coverage for a long life in outside conditions.
We have nine standard paint colors available based on the most popular hues selected for window shutters – Charcoal Slate, Black, Black Forest Green, Chrome Green, Hamilton Blue, Country Redwood, Cottage Red, and Tudor Brown. Custom color matching is an option if none of the standard colors meet your needs. Provide the name and manufacturer of a color you wish to match and we will custom mix paint for an additional $200. White or light-base colors may require an additional $35 per shutter. The increased amount is applied because light-based colors are more difficult to apply than darker colors, and will be presented for approval before an order is processed.
Composite shutters cannot be stained because the material will not absorb the finish.
ShutterLand composite raised panel shutters are designed to enhance curb appeal. They provide a impressive architectural detail that will make a major impact. Composite raised panel shutters currently require about 3-6 weeks for manufacturing. After completion, they are shipped direct to your front door.
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