First - Is "Custom" really "Customized"?

If you shop carefully and ask plenty of questions you will find that many companies claim to sell custom shutters designed to your specifications.

What you must understand is that there is a distinct difference between "custom" shutters and "customized" shutters.

Customized shutters begin as standard pre-cut material. These are shutter panels and rails which can then be cut and hinged to the window measurements you have provided.

Custom shutters are built from scratch. They are cut and styled completely to your individual specifications for your individual windows.

So, what's the difference? With custom shutters built especially for you windows you should expect a perfect fit. You don't necessarily get that with customized shutters.

In most cases customized shutters will work very well. If you have unusual needs or unique architecture, your best bet is to pay the extra cost and have custom shutters created that you know will be just what you need.

For unusual jobs customized shutters may require a great deal of cutting and trimming to meet your specifications. The more trimming that's necessary, the more your shutter panels may be functionally compromised. That is an uncommon problem, but one you should consider.

You have a third choice and a very popular one at that. Shutters constructed of synthetic materials (like vinyl) are usually available in many pre-cut styles and sizes that are maximized for rapid production and sale. For most homes these will be just what you expected.

An important benefit of the stock, pre-made shutter is that it is pre-made. Your order can be filled quickly. You can your window shutters in place very quickly.

Just remember they are only available in the sizes specified. Be sure those sizes will fit you windows and are well styled to match the design of your home.

You call the shots with custom made shutters. They are made one at a time to your specifications. The stiles and rails will be exactly the right size, if your measurements were accurate.

When it comes to dollars and cents many home owners feel that standard sized, mass produced shutters are the best value when compared to the cost of building custom or customized shutters.

There's no question that window shutters can enhance the look of your home both inside and outside. Your choice of whether to choose stock, custom or customized shutters may not be as important as how accurately you measure your windows.

If you find that you made an error in measurement you may be able to return the stock sized shutters. With the others you are stuck for the cost.

In buying any of the shutters, the best way is the traditional way - measure your windows accurately and only then will you be prepared to make your choice. Using this method you'll know just what you need as far as style and measurement.