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

6 October 2025 ·

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 bathroom 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

If you want to make your shutters waterproof, then we strongly suggest you choose PVC bathroom shutters. This is 100% waterproof, long-lasting and easy to clean.

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 hardwood option, 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.

Ready to Choose?

Explore all materials today at shutters365.co.uk, compare prices instantly, and create your perfect shutters online.

 

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