From siding and roofing shingles to landscape design, there are many elements that make up your home's curb appeal. Each of these elements works together to give your home a good look, great first impression, and an increase in value. However, shutters are also crucial parts of your home's exterior even though they may be considered unnecessary for some people. If you want to update the curb appeal and value of your home, here are a few tips for choosing the best style and color of shutters.

1. Focus on Style First

One of the first decisions you will need to make when choosing shutters is what style will work best for your home's exterior. There are four styles that are most commonly used in homes. Raised panel shutters look similar to the doors on your kitchen cabinets. Because they have a traditional look, this style works with most home styles.

Louvered shutters are also an option to consider. These shutters have angled slats, which allow some light to shine through, which adds a decorative touch to a home's exterior. This decorative look works best on homes that have more ornate or unique details. Board and batten shutters are also popular styles. Also known as BNB, these shutters are constructed using multiple boards that are held together with one thin panel.

Finally, Bahama shutters may be right for your home. This style, which is also called Bermuda shutters, is affixed to the top of the windows rather than the sides. Because they let air and light in, they are commonly used in tropical locations.

2. Choose a Color

Once you choose a shutter style, you will need to choose a color. It is important to note that there is really no right or wrong answer when it comes to the color of your shutters. However, you will want your shutters to complement the exterior of your home, which can help improve your home's curb appeal and value.

Base the color of your shutters on the home's total color palette, which consists of multiple colors. The main color is the color of your siding. Trim color is also a part of this palette. The trim makes up the color of your soffits, fascia, and gutters. In addition to the main and the trim colors, accent colors are used to bring the entire look together. Your door and shutters are part of the accent color.

The accent color should stand out from the rest of the home's main and trim colors. Your shutters and door do not have to match, but they should work together to give your home a bit of character and personality. For example, if you have a home with white vinyl siding, opt for dark black or charcoal trim work. Your shutters can also be this same color, but paint your front door a brighter color, such as blue or red, which will pull the colors together nicely.

For more information, contact your local shutter installation service.