Customized Interior Shutter Units
Many companies claim to sell "custom"
shutters. However, they may actually be selling "customized"
interior shutters. Customized interior
shutters start as pre-built individual stock
size shutter panels which
are then cut down and hinged together to achieve a specific
unit size. The practice generally results in shutters that are
a poor fit for the windows in your house. In addition, the shutters
are not proportional to the window size and depending on how
much 
of the shutter was trimmed, the integrity of the panels
may have been compromised. A popular installation technique
used by companies that customized shutter units is to mount
the shutters to the inside of the window opening using a hang
strip on either side of the shutters. This allows the installer
to use stock
size shutter panels and adjust the size of the hang strip so
the width of the shutter unit "fits" the window opening.
The hang strips are unnecessary in a properly made shutter unit
and only take away from the available louver area.
Synthetic shutters typically use pre-made stiles, rails, and louvers, then cut them them to size to allow for quick production. This also results in an improper fit and components that are not in proportion to the window.
Custom Interior Shutter Units
Other companies sell "custom made" shutters. These are shutters that are specifically made from the start for each individual window opening. Horizon Shutters is a great example of a company that sells premium quality window shutters made to the 1/16 inch for each window opening. All windows are unique and there are no standard size windows, so don't assume that all windows are the same. Custom made shutters are fabricated so all stiles and rails can be uniform throughout the house or office (keeping in mind that rail sizes are adjusted depending on the height of the window opening and the louver spacing.)
Shutter Tip:
The quality of the finish is just as important as the color. A poorly finished shutter can deteriorate quickly. A paint finish should be through, smooth, and thick - covering all surfaces. A poor paint finish may be rough to the touch and transparent to the eye. Stain finishes should have a durable protective top coat finish.
When purchasing shutters make sure that you do NOT choose a company that sells "customized" shutters.
