Shutters offer you a total block out or full light and do some degree a form of security. Today's shutters are made from various materials however they mostly use a timber called basswood, which is very easy to look after and are priced reasonably. There are also eco materials which within reason, are resistant to moisture and are used more than the timber ones. If however you were wanting outside shutters you would more than likely opt for aluminium however there are firms that specialize in these so I do not get involved with them, especially on high rise work.

As can be seen above the method I prefer to use is drop in channels which in my opinion offer an easy option for cleaning both the shutters and the windows by simply lifting then out (carefully by the sides - not the louvres). By having the channels top and bottom there are no light gaps and if your window is square the side gaps should be minimal.

The picture on the left is also done using drop in channels as the windows are very small and in an area where they would be tricky to hinge.