Bahama Shutters vs. Colonial Shutters
Bahama shutters hinge above the opening and prop outward; Colonial shutters hinge at the sides. Compare shade, view and mounting space. If hurricane protection is required, identify the exact impact-rated model and installation before choosing the appearance. Decorative non-impact versions are not hurricane protection.
Imagine a fictional west-facing front window. The owner wants shade and a coastal look, so they compare a propped Bahama layout with side-hinged Colonial panels. They review the changed view and available side space using photos and finish samples. If storm protection is required, they identify the separate rated product before choosing the appearance.
Bahama Shutters
Tropical style and shade, with separate impact-rated options
Coastal and tropical homes wanting shade
Benefits to compare
- Top-hinged layout can provide shade; orientation and open angle matter
- Iconic coastal / island curb appeal
- Props open for year-round shade and privacy
- Provides exterior shade when propped open
- Confirm available finishes and physical samples
Planning limitations
- Partially blocks the view outward when propped
- Best suited to single-window spans
Colonial Shutters
Classic symmetrical curb appeal
Traditional and historic-style homes
Benefits to compare
- Timeless side-hinged, paired-louver look
- Doesn't block the view when open
- Complements traditional and Mediterranean architecture
- Side-hinged panels create a traditional paired look
- Confirm available finishes and physical samples
Planning limitations
- Provides little shade compared to Bahama
- Needs clearance on both sides of the opening
Compare the details
| Feature | Bahama Shutters | Colonial Shutters |
|---|---|---|
| Mounting | Top-hinged (above window) | Side-hinged (both sides) |
| Product pricing | Get a configured quote | Get a configured quote |
| Impact-rated option | Confirm exact product approval | Confirm exact product approval |
| Year-round shade | Yes, props outward | Minimal |
| View when open | Partially shaded | Unobstructed |
| Style | Coastal / tropical | Traditional / classic |
| Custom RAL colors | Yes | Yes |
| Impact/HVHZ option | Separate rated model | Separate rated model |
| Best opening type | Single windows | Single & paired windows |
Which should you choose?
Choose Bahama shutters if you want a tropical, coastal look with built-in shade. Choose the separate impact-rated model when your project requires hurricane protection.
Choose Colonial shutters if you prefer a classic, symmetrical facade with an unobstructed view. Choose the separate impact-rated model when your project requires hurricane protection.
Common questions
What is the difference between Bahama and colonial shutters?
Bahama shutters hinge at the top and prop outward for shade and a tropical look, while Colonial shutters hinge at the sides for a classic, symmetrical appearance. Decorative non-impact versions do not provide approved hurricane protection. Separate impact-rated versions are available.
Do Bahama and colonial shutters provide real hurricane protection?
Only the impact-rated versions should be considered for hurricane protection, subject to the exact approval document and installation. Decorative non-impact Bahama and Colonial shutters are for architectural style, shade, or privacy and are not a substitute for approved hurricane protection.
Which adds more curb appeal, Bahama or colonial shutters?
It depends on your home's style. Bahama shutters suit coastal, island, and tropical homes and add shade, while colonial shutters complement traditional, Mediterranean, and historic architecture with a symmetrical paired-louver look. Ask which finishes are available for the selected model and compare physical samples.
Compare quote costs and inclusions | Get a custom product quote