These two photos show the same house, with correct shutter placement on the left and incorrect shutter placement on the right. There is a right and wrong when it comes to shutter placement.
When installed correctly, shutters are positioned so they would close over the opening and entirely cover the window sash. This requires them to cover most of the trim on either side of the window. The painter installed the shutters in the wrong location here after a paint job.
Historically, shutters were functional and used regularly to control the amount of light and air entering a house and to help reduce the entry of insects. Most fabrics and carpets used in homes were susceptible to fading in sunlight and shutters helped to protect them.
Window screens and color-fast textiles reduced the need for functional shutters and outside-mounted storm windows further reduced their usage. Few people use their shutters today. However, even non-functional shutters should be installed in the correct location.
“Restoring Your Historic House, The Comprehensive Guide for Homeowners” was written to help people get the details right, including shutter placement.
Signed and personalized copies of the award-winning and bestselling 720-page hardcover book are available from the author in our shop, YourHistoricHouse.com/shop/.
Want to learn more about historic house styles? “A Field Guide to American Houses” by Virginia McAlester is the classic volume on the subject. It is also available in our shop. Save on cost and shipping with our multi-book combo packs!
© Scott T. Hanson 2024.
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