3 Mistakes Homeowners Make When Choosing Exterior Shutters

Exterior shutters are one of the easiest ways to elevate the look of your home. Whether you’re aiming for a touch of Southern charm, a clean modern upgrade, or timeless traditional style, the right shutters can completely transform your exterior. But with so many options available, it’s easy to make a decision you’ll regret.

At Advantage Shutters, we’ve worked with hundreds of Middle Tennessee homeowners over the past 30+ years, and we’ve seen the same mistakes pop up again and again.

If you’re in the market for new exterior shutters, here are the top three missteps to avoid.

Choosing the Wrong Size

One of the most common shutter mistakes is selecting the wrong size. Many mass-produced shutters are too narrow or too short for the windows they’re meant to frame. This throws off the proportions of the entire facade and makes even high-end homes look out of balance.

Shutters should be sized so that if they were to close, they’d cover the window opening entirely. Even if your shutters are decorative, proper sizing is essential for symmetry and curb appeal. Custom-built shutters ensure each piece is made to fit your home’s exact window dimensions, which results in a more intentional and polished look.

Prioritizing Price Over Quality

We understand the temptation to save money with big-box or online shutter kits, but low-cost options often sacrifice long-term quality. Materials like thin vinyl or hollow plastic may look decent for a year or two, but they tend to warp, crack, or fade quickly—especially in Tennessee’s hot, humid summers.

Investing in high-quality wood or composite shutters pays off in durability, appearance, and overall value. Custom wood shutters offer natural beauty and strength, while premium composite materials can be ideal for moisture-prone areas. Your shutters are exposed to the elements year-round, so quality should always be a top priority.

To support your investment, consider working with local exterior specialists who can maintain or refresh your siding, trim, or paint. For example, Allbright Pro Painting in Tennessee offers expert exterior painting services that complement long-lasting shutter materials.

Overlooking the Home’s Architectural Style

Not every shutter style works for every home. We often see homeowners pick a design they love in isolation, without considering how it pairs with their home’s architecture. For example, board and batten shutters tend to suit farmhouse or rustic-style homes, while raised panel or louvered styles often complement colonial or traditional exteriors.

The best approach is to choose shutters that feel like a natural extension of your home’s character. A professional shutter specialist can guide you in selecting a style that enhances your existing trim, siding, and window shapes.

Ready to Get It Right?

Avoiding these common mistakes is easier when you have an experienced team by your side. At Advantage Shutters, we custom-build every shutter in our Murfreesboro shop and help you make selections that fit your home and your goals.

Contact us today for a free quote and design consultation. Your home deserves shutters that are built to last and made to match.