PVC vs Hardwood Shutters: Which Is Best for Your Home?

The Big Question: Which Shutter Material Is Right for You?

Choosing the right material for your shutters is one of the most important decisions when designing your perfect window covering. At Shutters365, we offer three high-quality materials Faux Wood (PVC), Paulownia Hardwood, and Basswood Hardwood,: each with unique benefits for different rooms and lifestyles.

PVC Shutters Durable, Waterproof, and Worry-Free

PVC shutters are ideal for busy households and humid environments. Made from high-quality composite materials, they’re fully waterproof and resistant to warping, making them perfect for bathrooms, kitchens, and utility rooms.

Best for:

Bathrooms, kitchens, or anywhere moisture is an issue
Homes needing low-maintenance, wipe-clean finishes
Households with pets or children

Why choose PVC:

100% waterproof
Long-lasting and easy to clean
Cost-effective alternative to wood
Looks almost identical to painted hardwood shutters

Available in four timeless colours, our PVC range offers a clean, classic look with impressive durability — all backed by a 2-year warranty.

Paulownia Hardwood Shutters — Lightweight and Eco-Friendly

Paulownia is a lightweight, sustainable hardwood perfect for larger windows or spaces where weight matters. Despite being light, it’s strong and stable, offering a refined, natural look.

Best for:

Large or bay windows
Eco-conscious homes
Homeowners who prefer a natural timber finish

Why choose Paulownia:

Lightweight yet durable
Smooth painted finish or natural stain
Environmentally sustainable
Available in 22 painted finishes and 4 natural stains

Basswood Hardwood Shutters Premium and Timeless

Basswood is our premium hardwoodption, chosen for its strength, smooth grain, and exceptional paint finish. It delivers a luxury look ideal for living rooms and bedrooms.

Best for:

Feature windows or high-end interiors
Homeowners wanting the most refined finish
Consistent paint colour and smooth surface

Why choose Basswood:

Dense, durable hardwood
Impeccably smooth paint finish
22 painted finishes and 4 wood stains
Premium look and feel

Side-by-Side Comparison

Feature	PVC (Faux Wood)	Paulownia (Hardwood)	Basswood (Hardwood)
Waterproof	Yes	No	No
Ideal Rooms	Bathroom, Kitchen, Utility	Bay Windows, Living Room, Bedroom	Living Room, Feature Windows, Bedrooms
Finishes Available	4 Classic Colours	22 Painted + 4 Stains	22 Painted + 4 Stains
Weight	Medium	Very Lightweight	Moderate
Maintenance	Wipe Clean	Regular Dusting	Regular Dusting
Appearance	Smooth Painted Look	Natural Wood Texture	Smooth, Premium Painted Finish
Eco-Friendly	Yes (Recyclable PVC)	Yes (Sustainable Wood)	Not as Eco-Focused
Warranty	2 Years	2 Years	2 Years

Which Should You Choose?

If you want something practical, modern, and durable — PVC is your best choice.
If you’re after natural elegance and lightness — Paulownia is perfect.
If you want premium strength and flawless finish — Basswood is unbeatable.

All options are made-to-measure, built to last, and delivered direct — all at prices that make Shutters365 the UK’s most affordable DIY shutter brand.