Bathrooms and other damp locations need shutters able to withstand moisture. Consider these factors when selecting ideal shutters to handle humid environments.

Moisture-Resistant Composite Shutters

Composite shutters made from water-resistant plastics or resins are ideal for wet areas. They prevent warping, swelling and mold growth caused by moisture exposure.

Composites like PVC and vinyl stay stable despite changes in humidity and steam.

Rust-Resistant Aluminum Shutters

Aluminum is a smart metal shutter choice for bathrooms as it does not corrode or rust from water and condensation like steel products. The stable metal withstands dampness.

Powder-coated aluminum shutters add further waterproofing by sealing the surface.

Avoid Unfinished Wood Shutters

While beautiful, unfinished wood easily warps and rots when exposed to leaks, splashes and high humidity present in bathrooms. Only wood shutters with marine grade water-resistant finish should be considered.

If selecting wood, be prepared to re-seal shutters annually to preserve the waterproof finish.

Water-Tight Shutters That Seal Properly

Ensure shutters close tightly and seal properly to prevent water seepage behind them. Weatherstripping along the perimeter blocks moisture penetration from gaps.

Louvers should also seal when fully closed. Any openings or cracks leak humid air and liquid.

No Exposed Shutters Behind Wet Wall Areas

Don’t install shutters directly behind showers, tubs or sinks where water will splash the back of shutters often. The moisture trapped behind will quickly damage materials.

Locate shutters on drier walls away from plumbing fixtures and water sources if possible.

MRI-Resistant Shutters Without Ferrous Metals

Avoid standard shutters with ferrous metals near showers and tubs. The iron can corrode from moisture and attract dangerous mold growth. Also, metal near plumbing can cause MRI safety issues.

Use composite, aluminum or stainless steel shutters that are MRI-safe and non-corroding in bath environments.

Condensation-Resistant Glass for Humid Rooms

Standard glass fogs up, drips and promotes mold in humid bathrooms. Upgrade to special low-E coated glass designed to discourage condensation so vision stays clear.

This glass prevents damage, unsafe slick conditions and maintenance hassles due to constant condensation.

Hidden or Internal Hinges Resist Rusting

Exposed hinge hardware corrodes quickly in wet bathroom air. Choose shutters with hinges hidden within frames or pivot rods instead of standard external hinges.

This prevents rust debris from staining tile or tubs. Check hinge material is non-corroding as well.

Vents or Louvers for Airflow to Deter Mildew

Stagnant humid air promotes mildew and moisture damage. Add vents or keep louvers open to allow airflow that keeps air circulating and drier behind shutters.

Open slats also allow fresh air to evaporate dampness before it becomes problematic mold.

Clean and Disinfect Shutters Regularly

Routinely wipe down shutters using bathroom disinfectant cleaners to prevent microbial buildup in humid conditions. Algae and bacteria grow quickly on moist shutters.

Scrub and disinfect all surfaces, slats, frames and hardware to kill germs before they spread.

Conclusion

Choosing the right materials and design considerations ensures shutters withstand the brutal humidity and moisture levels found in bathrooms and wet zones. Follow these tips to install shutters able to survive and protect those high risk areas.