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Window shutters that are meant to be used for the outside of houses will need specially designed exterior hardware. These are the hinges, pintles, ring pulls, bolts, locks, shutter dogs, holdbacks, and other shutter accessories that complete the shutter. Historically, window hardware was made out of iron for those who could afford it, and leather for those who couldn’t. There were also carved wooden window accessories. Today’s best exterior hardware for shutter windows is now made out of stainless steel, wrought steel, aluminum, or carbon steel. Most have the additional features of a wrought iron finish and zinc plating. These are sure to be protected against rust and the elements. There is historically accurate exterior hardware, and there are more modern and contemporary designs. It is also possible to have your own ideas for shutter hardware custom-made.
If all this is a little confusing for you, here is a glossary of terms that will simplify everything about exterior hardware.
Hinge- hardware that connects two solid objects, such as a shutter to a jamb; and allows rotation of the parts. There are exterior hinges, and interior hinges. There are many designs. Some of these are the blind hinge, the L-hinge, the strap hinge, and the mortise hinge.
Latch- a kind of mechanism that will close but not lock a shutter. This exterior hardware is a mechanical fastener that can easily join two shutter panels together and just as easily open them up as needed. Like the shutter hinges, there are many kinds. These are the most visible of the exterior hardware and therefore the one to give character to your shutters.
Pintle- this is a part of a hinge, a pin or a bolt. This is the hardware mechanism that allows for the swinging or pivoting of hinges
Rat Tail Holdback- this exterior hardware has the same purpose as the Shutter Dogs, which is to keep the panels open. The difference is in their shapes. This one has a “J” shape with a stylized loop on the end of the curve.
Ring Pulls- these work somewhat like knobs, wherein they are used to pull open a shutter. However, ring pulls are shaped like rings. They have an unusual design, and will bring character to your window shutter and your home
Shutter Bolts- these kinds of exterior hardware for window shutters assist in the locking mechanism of shutters. They are very useful in bad weather if you want your windows protected and your shutters to remain firmly shut. They are generally more sturdy and durable than latches, and they can both lock and close a shutter.
Shutter Caps- usually made of galvanized steel, this kind of exterior hardware is hardly noticed but just as important. It is made to fit over the top of an exterior shutter panel. Its purpose is shutter protection against water and moisture damage.
Shutter Dogs- these are metal accessories for exterior window shutters that are used to hold shutter panels open. They could be ornate or plain, depending on your preference. Other names for this type of exterior hardware are tiebacks and holdbacks. Shutter dogs are usually shaped like an “S,” with one end heavier than the other.