Shutter Materials Comparison Guide

Choose the perfect shutter material for every room in your home.

MDF Shutters (Medium-Density Fibreboard)

Best for: Living Rooms • Bedrooms • Home Offices • Hallways

Cost:
Budget-friendly and excellent value for everyday living spaces.

Durability:
Strong, dense and stable, though heavier than hardwood shutters.

Moisture Resistance:
Low to moderate. Suitable only for dry rooms.
Not recommended for bathrooms, wet rooms or areas with high humidity.

Aesthetic / Finish:
Smooth painted finish with a clean, modern appearance.
No visible wood grain.

Hybrid / Composite Shutters (MDF + ABS)

Best for: Large Windows • Busy Family Areas • Utility Spaces

Cost:
Mid-range – positioned between MDF and hardwood.

Durability:
Lightweight, long-lasting and ideal for wider openings where stability is essential.

Moisture Resistance:
Good. Suitable for rooms with everyday moisture or varying temperatures.

Aesthetic / Finish:
A smooth painted finish designed to replicate the appearance of natural timber.

Waterproof Shutters (PVC / ABS Composite)

Best for: Bathrooms • Kitchens • Wet Rooms • Coastal Homes

Cost:
Mid to high. More than MDF, but highly competitive versus hardwood.

Durability:
Exceptional. These shutters will not warp, crack, peel or absorb moisture.

Moisture Resistance:
100% Waterproof, making them the safest and most reliable choice for humid rooms.

Aesthetic / Finish:
Sleek, modern and available in a wide range of colours.
Designed to imitate the look of painted wood.

Hardwood Shutters (Paulownia, Basswood, etc.)

Best for: Bay Windows • Feature Rooms • Period Homes

Cost:
Premium material with the highest aesthetic finish.

Durability:
Lightweight, strong, and perfect for large or bespoke-shaped shutters.

Moisture Resistance:
Moderate. Wood can expand or contract with humidity, so it’s not ideal for bathrooms or very steamy environments.

Aesthetic / Finish:
Authentic natural wood grain with the option of painted or stained finishes.
Offers the most elegant, traditional and high-quality appearance.

Need Help Choosing the Right Material?

Every home is unique. Whether your priority is cost, durability, moisture resistance or aesthetic appeal, our experts can help recommend the ideal shutter material for each room.

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