Eco-Friendly Shutters: Sustainable Materials and Practices

More homeowners are prioritizing sustainability features when renovating. Luckily, selecting eco-friendly shutters is easier than ever thanks to innovative materials and manufacturing practices. Read on to learn how today’s shutters can reduce environmental impact through energy efficiency, durability and natural resources.

Renewable and Recycled Materials

Shutters constructed using recycled, renewable and sustainably-sourced materials have a lighter footprint. Top eco options include:

• Recycled PVC Shutters – Made from post-consumer and post-industrial PVC waste to keep it out of landfills
• Bamboo Shutters – Rapidly renewable grass that regrows quickly without replanting
• Recycled Aluminum Shutters – Crafted from recycled scrap aluminum rather than newly mined sources
• Composite Wood Shutters – Blend recycled wood fibers and polymers like recycled polyethylene
• Reclaimed Wood Shutters – Salvaged from old barns, buildings or wine barrels and reused

Locally-Sourced Materials

Choosing shutters made from regionally available materials near your project site cuts down on pollution from long-distance shipping. Ask manufacturers to determine the source of their wood species and other raw materials.

Low-VOC Finishes

Many shutters today feature low-VOC stains and paints free from harmful volatile organic compounds found in standard finishes. Low-VOC coatings improve indoor air quality. Water-based stains and paints also clean up easily with water instead of harsh solvents.

Energy Efficient Options

Shutters play an important role in energy conservation for homes. Features like insulation, weatherstripping and radiant barrier backings reduce solar heat gain and seal out drafts. This equates to energy savings for heating and cooling.

Durable and Long Lasting

The longer shutters last before needing replacement, the less materials eventually end up in landfills. Look for durable shutter materials like PVC, composite woods or aluminum for a long service life. Heavy-duty exterior shutters stand up to weather wear.

Manufacturing Byproducts get Recycled

Responsible shutter makers recycle manufacturing wood scraps and sawdust back into wood pellets, biomass fuel and other products so nothing goes to waste. Ask about their recycling policies.

Lean Package Design

Companies like Shutterly are redesigning packaging to eliminate styrofoam and minimize waste. Their eco-packs use 100% recyclable cardboard and protective inserts that can be reused. Lean packaging also reduces emissions from shipping.

Support Sustainable Forestry

For wood shutters like basswood, poplar or red oak, choose manufacturers that use timber from responsibly managed forests. Look for certifications like FSC, SFI or SFC that verify sustainability practices are followed in timber harvesting.

Consider End-of-Life Recycling

The most sustainable shutters are recyclable at the end of their lifespan. PVC shutters, aluminum shutters and composites can often be recycled through specialty programs when retiring shutters after decades of use.

Employee Health and Safety

Environmentally responsible factories ensure worker health and safety through protections like dust collection, respirator use where required and strict safety procedures. A safe workforce is key to sustainability.

Community Involvement

Leading manufacturers give back to local communities through donations, volunteering and fundraisers for worthwhile causes like home rebuilding charities. Social stewardship is intertwined with eco-values.

With increasing eco-consciousness among consumers, sustainability now drives shutter selection as much as looks or cost. Ensure your new shutters align with your environmental priorities by purchasing from manufacturers committed to sustainability.