Wood or MDF Shutters?

December 6, 2017

In the world of interior window shutters, the two most commonly used materials are wood (namely, basswood) and MDF (medium-density fibreboard). But what is the difference between the two? What are the advantages and disadvantages of each, and which should you opt for in your own home? Our customers often ask us these questions, and their final decision between wood or MDF shutters usually comes down to a few simple considerations.

Note: although MDF and wood are the primary materials used to manufacture window shutters, there are many more materials to consider (not to mention different kinds of wood). As such, you can read our blog post on the best materials for window shutters for a more inclusive list. But for now, we will weigh up the pros and cons of wood vs. MDF shutters to help you decide which of the two is best suited to your requirements.

WOOD SHUTTERS

Wood is a highly adaptable and all-purpose material, with properties and features that are influenced by several factors, including the tree type. The specific qualities of wood vary depending on the tree’s growth patterns, the age of the wood, and the environmental conditions in which it was grown, resulting in diverse textures, colours, and grain patterns.

What Is The Best Wood For Window Shutters?

When choosing the best wood for window shutters, there are several aspects to consider, including the room where you will install the shutters, the design and colour scheme of the room, the width of the window frame, and the purpose of fitting shutters. The natural features of wood (grains, textures, and colours) give window shutters a unique look and feel.

Popular types of wood used for window shutters include hardwood. This general wood category comprises woods like beech, teak, and oak. Since these materials are sourced from slow-growing trees, they are among the most robust materials on the market. As such, hardwood is often used to make shutters that are designed with both durability and elegance in mind.

Another popular wood for shutters is basswood, a smooth and fine-grained wood from lime trees. Due to its popularity in the shutter industry and the high standards of how it is treated, basswood shutters cost less than hardwood shutters without compromising on quality.

Wood from the poplar tree is a lightweight and softwood that is easy to work with. It is also resistant to warping and shrinking, making it an ideal choice for shutters.

Pine wood is another softwood known for its affordability and versatility. Like Poplar, it is also lightweight and easy to work with.

Ultimately, the choice of wood for your window shutters will depend on your personal preferences, budget, and home.

Our shutters come in various hardwoods and finishes, with fine-grained basswood (explicitly sourced for use in shutters) being the most common.

Pros:

Stronger than MDF – due to their strength, wooden shutters are logical for larger openings where a more sturdy fixture is required, for example, in doorways and bay windows.
Natural and organic – the different grains and wood finishes can add a certain charm and authenticity to your shutters, especially when incorporated into traditional interiors.
Lighter than MDF – a more lightweight shutter is easier to use (especially in the case of tracked shutters, which open and close horizontally) and install.
Different types of wood– with options including pine, oak, teak, cedar, and many more, wooden shutters come with a variety of individual qualities and benefits.
Various finishes – wood is available in an extensive range of colours and finishes, with enough variation to suit any home interior style.

Cons:

Pricier than MDF – wood falls under a higher price range due to the high quality of the material, which may pose a problem for those operating on a limited budget.
Susceptible to humidity– wood shutters are generally not suitable for humid rooms, although water resistance largely depends on the tightness of the wood grain.

MDF SHUTTERS

What is MDF?

MDF stands for Medium Density Fibreboard. MDF is an engineered wood composite product made from the residue of industrial milling, such as sawdust, wood chips or shavings.

How is MDF Made?

To produce Medium Density Fibreboard (MDF), the first step involves pulping the wood chips or shavings mechanically. This breaks them down into individual fibres through a refining process. The resulting fibres are then dried and blended with resin. Wax is often added to increase the board’s durability. These fibres are then shaped into a mat, which is compressed and heated in a hot press. This process creates a rigid, uniform board that is used in a variety of applications.

Our MDF shutters are finished with a plastic coating, giving them an ever so slightly glossy look.

Pros:

Increased durability – since MDF is made of various woods and topped off with a plastic coating, these shutters benefit from increased resilience to scratches and dents.
Natural appearance – many of our customers cannot distinguish them from more expensive real wood options at a glance, making them a logical alternative.
MDF is easier to clean – since they are manufactured with a plastic coating instead of a painted finish, MDF window shutters usually only require a quick once-over.
Cheaper than wood – although the lower price isn’t apparent in their appearance, it certainly makes MDF an excellent choice for people on a budget.

Cons:

Fewer colours compared to wood – our MDF shutters come in five shades of white, which may deter those looking for a wider palette or darker tones.
Heavier than wood – heavier shutters are harder to install and could pose a threat to the integrity and functionality of the covering (we can advise you on this).
Limited placement options – being somewhat less flexible when it comes to intricate shapes and designs, MDF shutters aren’t suitable for circular or triangular windows.

Are you still spoilt for choice and unsure which material is the best solution? Don’t worry; our team of window shutter specialists are here to help! For help to discern which material best suits your specific interior design preferences and budget, feel free to contact Diamond Shutters, and a member of our friendly team will be happy to help.

Contact
Diamond Shutters

As suppliers of quality window and shutter blinds for the last 15 years, we take pride in providing our clients with quality products that represent exceptional value.

To find out how we can help transform your home through installing our beautiful looking window shutters, please call on the number below or fill out the contact form, and we will get back to you without delay.

Call : 0208 302 2447

Email : sales@diamond-shutters.com

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