Shutter In The South
Exterior shutters have long been a defining characteristic of homes in the South, from sprawling plantation homes to quaint five-story city apartments. Perhaps the heartbeat of the exterior staple comes from Charleston, South Carolina where centuries of classic homes have proven shutter’s functionality and full decorative abilities. Here, the most common style is in fact, the Charleston, a simple yet elegant two paneled shutter typically painted a glossy jet black contrasting a whitewashed exterior. They speak a bold statement declaring the status of the home. It seems as though as long as the shutters are in order, the house stands, and the owner takes pride in his establishment.
Despite their tremendous aesthetic value, shutters used in the South are not merely for decoration. The vast majority are fully functional, serving to ventilate by allowing a breeze in and stale air out when engaged, and to repel attention from passer-byers, birds, and beating sun rays when closed. In the event of a hurricane or tropical storm, shutters act as a shield, protecting your windows and interior from flying debris and heavy rain.
To hold the shutters in place, either open or closed, “shutter dogs” are used. In Charleston, SC, these come in all shapes and sizes. From anchors to butterflies, these cast-metal decorative pieces of hardware are pivotal in setting a unique tone or theme. Traditionally, the “S-holdback” is a popular solution as the S shape hooks on both ends, serving to both latch the shutters shut and hold them to the exterior wall when open.
Because of their age, almost exclusively, shutters found in the South are constructed of solid wood, often western red cedar or mahogany. Because of their solid construction, they are surprisingly durable and last for ages if properly maintained. A simple repainting every few years keeps them looking their best and doubles in protecting from potential termite damage.
On the plantation, shutters are often set inside the home. They are louvered to give the best of both worlds providing both sanctuary and ventilation when shut. Louvered shutters often have tilt rods to draw them open or closed evenly. These are also called blinds and are typically constructed of cedar and painted white.
Whether looking to buy a home, or renovate your exterior, pay special attention when selecting your shutters. As witnessed in the South, they not only extenuate your home’s curb appeal, but truly define its character.
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