A store-bought pair of 15-by-63-inch raised-panel vinyl shutters can start at around $70, while a pair of custom-made painted wood shutters for a 36-by-66-inch window can cost $400 to $500.

Molded vinyl shutters are just too flimsy but PVC looks almost just like wood, without the danger of rot or insect damage. Advertisement Finally, there’s the price issue.

The new Heritance hardwood shutters from Hunter Douglas offer the look of outdoor shutters inside. They're easy to open and close, and made of durable natural wood. Combining natural wood, a ...