In the early colonization days of the British Empire, outposts were set up in Bermuda and other islands in the Caribbean. The windows in the houses that the British built were covered with louvered shutters that let light and air flow in and kept out the rain. The same type of shutter is used today, especially in areas of the United States that are hot and humid, like Florida and Hawaii. They are called Bahama or Bermuda shutters.

These shutters are hinged on the top of the window frame, rather than on the sides. The bahama shutters still retain their useful function of allowing air and light in, while keeping out rain. They are also effective awnings to keep shade on sunlit windows.

Bahama shutters are braced on the side with the ability to be opened at various pitches. The braces are easily and quickly collapsed to close the shutter if a storm comes up. The advantage of these shutters is that you can still have the window open inside allowing the cool air to circulate. Those who live in hot, humid climates that are prone to sudden squalls appreciate being able to enjoy the cool, refreshing effect of a rainstorm.

Real wood shutters are the only way to go in climates that have hot, moist conditions. Southern yellow pine, western red cedar and California redwood are the most durable and are able to withstand years of weathering. Choices of primed, ready to be stained, or unfinished will let you choose the color that you want.

With energy costs skyrocketing, people are using less air conditioning and relying on other energy efficient means to stay comfortable. Bahama shutters have been used for centuries and have proven to be an excellent way to stay cool and use less energy.

Click for more details : http://www.sunbeltshutters.com