Traditional (louvered) shutters on the sides of doors and window openings may be designed to close when additional weather protection is needed. Such shutters add to the exterior elegance of the home, and they are functional as well.

While many shutters are made of wood products (redwood, pine and cedar) they are also available in vinyl and plastic. If you want the wood grain to show through on wooden shutters, choose a stain finish. Otherwise stick with a painted finish. In either case, you can have a wide selection of colors. For extreme weather, louvered awnings or shutters can be manufactured in strong materials such as aluminum alloys.

Security storm shutters serve several purposes with one installation. Like storm windows they insulate your glass areas both winter and summer, cutting your heating and cooling costs. Like blinds, they adjust to control light and excess sun -- thus protecting your carpet, drapes and furniture from fading. They protect your privacy and can add an attractive accent to your windows. Like bars, heavy screens and expensive alarms, they protect against burglary, break-ins and intruders. For folks living in hurricane and high wind areas, they are excellent protection against devastating storms.

-- Tips courtesy of HomeAdvisor.com