Finding the Best Window Shutters for Wet Areas in Australia

Having windows in bathrooms, laundries and other wet areas brings natural light into the space but also poses some challenges. Excess moisture can damage window frames, curtains and blinds over time. Installing proper window shutters designed for wet area use is one of the best solutions.

Shutters repel moisture better than fabric treatments, and many modern materials resist warping, mold and deterioration in humid conditions. This guide covers the pros and cons of different shutter options for wet areas, plus tips for proper installation.

Benefits of Using Shutters in Wet Areas

Compared to regular window blinds and curtains, shutters offer some distinct advantages in bathrooms, laundries and pools:

• Moisture resistance – Shutters constructed from vinyl, composite and treated woods withstand humidity better than drapes or wooden blinds.
• Mold and mildew resistance – Materials like PVC vinyl, aluminum and composite resist mold growth better than natural fibers.
• Easy to clean – Shutters are easy to wipe down and keep free of soap scum and minerals.
• Privacy – Shutters block views and light completely when closed. Useful near baths or showers.
• Light control – Louvered shutters allow adjustable privacy and sunlight when needed.
• Tamper resistant – Shutters are more secure and pet/child proof than drapes or blinds.

The impervious materials and tight closure of shutters make them well suited to withstand the humidity and moisture levels common in wet areas. They maintain their appearance better over time than standard window treatments.

Tips for Installing Shutters in Wet Areas

Proper installation is key to ensure shutters work well in damp conditions:

• Select moisture resistant materials like vinyl, composite, aluminum or treated wood. Avoid plain lumber which can warp.
• Allow space between shutters and wall for airflow to prevent condensation buildup.
• Use stainless steel or coated hardware to resist corrosion in humid conditions.
• Seal around frames with caulk to prevent moisture entry behind shutters.
• Use a quality primer and paint that sheds water if installing wood shutters.
• Keep weep holes open at the shutter bottom so water can drain out.
• Consider soffit-mounting shutters for tub/shower walls to keep hardware away from direct water exposure.

Getting the spacing, sealing, drainage and materials right during installation will help prolong the life and appearance of wet area shutters. Consult manufacturers for their recommendations in high humidity applications.

Best Materials for Wet Area Shutters

There are several good shutter options suitable for spaces prone to moisture.

Vinyl Shutters

PVC vinyl is a top choice for wet areas.

Pros

• Resists moisture and won’t rot
• Easy to wipe clean
• Colors won’t fade from sun
• Economical and long lasting

Cons

• Can become brittle and crack over time
• Not as realistic looking as wood
• Limited color selection
• Prone to expansion and contraction

Vinyl is ideal for high-humidity rooms like baths and pools. Look for thicker panels and strong aluminum reinforcement for stability.

Composite Shutters

Composite shutters offer a nice mix of durability and aesthetics.

Pros

• Won’t crack, warp or rot
• Very realistic wood texture and grain
• Paintable in any color
• Resists fading and chipping

Cons

• Cost more than vinyl or wood
• Not recommended in extremely hot or cold climates

Composite can mimic real wood while still being dimensionally stable. Good for a wood look in wet areas.

Aluminum Shutters

Rust-proof aluminum holds up well in damp conditions.

Pros

• Resists corrosion and rust
• Lightweight for easy operation
• Durable and scratch resistant
• Customizable with colors and shapes

Cons

• Carries more heat than other materials
• Can dent if impacted
• Less realistic appearance than wood

With its metallic construction, aluminum is impervious to water and humidity. Best for coastal climates.

Treated Wood Shutters

Properly treated and painted wood can work in wet rooms.

Pros

• Most realistic natural wood look
• Can be painted or stained
• Environmentally friendly
• Repairable if damaged

Cons

• Still prone to warping and rot over time
• Requires more maintenance
• Difficult to thoroughly seal

Treated cedar and redwood have natural water resistance. Use marine varnish and keep well painted.

Best Shutters for Specific Wet Area Locations

The demands of different wet room locations can influence the best shutter choices.

Bathroom Shutters

• Humidity resistance essential
• Mold/mildew resistance important
• Easy to clean finish
• Match room decor – vinyl, composite or painted wood

Bathrooms need shutters that stand up to prolonged steam and condensation without developing mold or warping. Wipeable surfaces simplify cleaning.

Laundry Room Shutters

• Moisture resistance important
• Durability to withstand bangs
• Ventilation to handle heat/steam
• Muted colors due to less light

Laundry rooms need hardy shutters that can handle heat, humidity and the occasional bump from appliances, baskets, etc.

Pool Area Shutters

• Must resist chlorine degradation
• Corrosion proof hardware
• Able to withstand splashing
• Bright colors and breezy styling

Poolside shutters deal with chemical and humidity exposure. Rust-proof aluminum and vinyl stand up well in this environment.

Spa and Sauna Shutters

• Maximum moisture and heat resistance
• Condensation and fungus resistance
• Durable construction
• Light control

Spa rooms involve prolonged exposure to high humidity and steam. Stainless steel hardware and composite or solid vinyl shutters are best.

Shutters to Avoid for Wet Areas

Some shutter types are poorly suited to hot, humid conditions:

• Plain wood – Absorbs moisture and warps easily. Requires much upkeep.
• Paper or bamboo – Deteriorates rapidly with moisture exposure.
• Unsealed woods – Cedar and redwood need marine varnish for water protection.
• Iron hardware – Corrodes and rusts except for stainless steel.
• Fabric covered – Absorbs moisture and grows mildew. Difficult to clean.
• Unreinforced hollow vinyl – Can bulge or sag over time without internal supports.
• Melamine resin – Absorbs moisture and turns cloudy when wet repeatedly.

Selecting shutters made for damp conditions will help ensure they maintain their appearance and function. Avoid wood species prone to rot and cheaper grades of vinyl.

Maintenance Tips for Wet Area Shutters

Regular cleaning and care keeps shutters looking their best:

• Wipe down vinyl and aluminum shutters frequently using a soft cloth and mild detergent. Rinse well.
• Allow shutters to fully dry if they get splashed before closing to prevent trapped moisture.
• Reseal any caulking gaps annually to prevent moisture entry behind shutters.
• Lubricate shutter hinges and louvers periodically with silicone or Teflon spray.
• Use bleach or other fungicidal cleaners immediately on any mold or mildew growth to prevent spreading.
• Touch up paint on wood shutters whenever the finish seems dull, flaky or compromised.
• Avoid using abrasive cleaners or stiff brushes which can scratch the shutter surface.
• Check for debris that can clog weep holes or gaps that allow airflow.

Conclusion

Shutters are a smart choice over standard blinds or drapes in wet areas like baths, laundries and pool enclosures. Their durable materials and moisture-shedding designs allow them to withstand heat, humidity, splashes and more.

With proper installation and periodic cleaning, quality wet area shutters will maintain both their appearance and performance for many years. Our team of experts can help assess your space, recommend suitable shutters and products, and ensure proper installation for the conditions. Contact us to get started transforming your wet area windows today.