(WHY ACRYLIC URETHANE OUTPERFORMS LACQUER, POLYURETHANE, AND ENAMEL)
Shutters function as both architectural detail and everyday working furniture. They bend light, manage heat, endure constant handling, and sit directly in the path of UV exposure for hours each day. In California and Nevada—where sun intensity, heat, dust, coastal moisture, and daily temperature swings are part of the environment—paint durability is every bit as important as the material underneath it.
Most shutter manufacturers focus on the panels' material but overlook the role the finish plays in long-term performance. The truth is simple: a shutter is only as good as its paint system. If the coating cracks, yellows, chips, peels, or becomes sticky under heat, the entire product loses its integrity.
This is where acrylic urethane stands apart. It is the finish used in high-end cabinetry, custom millwork, architectural-grade furniture—and the finish Elizabeth Shutters uses on every whole basswood shutter. It is engineered to remain stable under sunlight, resist abrasion, prevent yellowing, and flex naturally with the wood as temperatures rise and fall.
This article breaks down the most common finishes used in shutters today, explains how each performs in real California and Nevada conditions, and shows why acrylic urethane is the superior choice for homeowners who want a lifetime finish.
California and Nevada present one of the most challenging environments for shutter coatings:
Exposure to direct sunlight can significantly hasten the yellowing, brittleness, and deterioration of lower-quality paint systems. This effect is particularly noticeable on windows that face south and west, where sunlight is most intense.
Interior window temperatures can reach levels above 140°F. It is essential for finishes to have the ability to flex rather than crack when exposed to this degree of heat.
Desert environments can lead to microabrasion, which significantly reduces the durability of softer finishes over time.
In coastal locations such as Newport Beach, La Jolla, and San Francisco, the presence of salt can significantly accelerate the processes of corrosion and the deterioration of finishes. This environmental factor poses challenges for maintenance and preservation in these areas.
Louvers, tilt rods, and hinges are frequently handled, which can lead to the transfer of oils from our hands. These oils have the potential to deteriorate low-quality coatings over time, compromising their durability and appearance.
A paint system that isn’t built for this environment will fail long before the shutter itself.
Acrylic urethane is a specialized hybrid coating that combines the best features of two materials: acrylic and urethane. This formulation provides several key benefits:
As a result, acrylic urethane offers a finish that is:
Acrylic urethane is commonly utilized in high-quality cabinetry and millwork, making it an excellent choice where both aesthetic appeal and durability are essential. Additionally, for shutters, it provides an ideal finish as it can endure environmental exposure and regular movement without cracking, chalking, or fading.
Basswood is widely recognized as the premier structural material for shutters, largely due to its low expansion rate and smooth grain texture. To further enhance these inherent qualities, an acrylic urethane finish is applied, providing a protective layer that functions like armor, ensuring durability and longevity.
Basswood features a consistent, uniform grain, allowing acrylic urethane to be applied seamlessly. This results in a smooth finish without any texture, plastic sheen, or rippling, making it an ideal choice for projects requiring a high-quality appearance.
Acrylic chemistry is designed to maintain a bright and stable finish, making it an excellent choice for surfaces like windows that are exposed to sunlight throughout the day. In contrast, other types of finishes, such as latex, enamel, lacquer, and polyurethane, tend to yellow more quickly when subjected to UV exposure. This makes acrylic a more durable option for long-lasting clarity and aesthetics.
Wood is a material that naturally expands and contracts with changes in temperature and humidity. To accommodate this movement, acrylic urethane is a flexible coating that can adapt alongside the wood. In contrast, traditional finishes like lacquer and enamel lack this flexibility and are prone to cracking when the wood shifts.
Acrylic urethane is known for its ability to maintain hardness at temperatures up to 140°F. In contrast, vinyl film wraps and less expensive paints can soften or become tacky when exposed to such temperatures. This makes acrylic urethane a more durable option for applications where high heat may be a factor.
This style is ideal for coastal residences in Orange County, San Diego, the Bay Area, and Lake Tahoe.
The finish on various surfaces can vary significantly in terms of durability and maintenance requirements. For instance, some finishes can be easily wiped, washed, or lightly scrubbed without risking dullness or etching of the surface. In contrast, latex paints are prone to scuffing or burnishing, which can affect their appearance over time. Lacquer finishes are also susceptible to scratching, making them less ideal for high-traffic areas. Additionally, polyurethane finishes may develop a cloudy appearance with age or exposure, whereas acrylic urethane maintains clarity and consistency, making it a reliable choice for long-lasting finishes.
Let’s break down the alternatives used by competitors like Norman USA, Hunter Douglas, and lower-tier local installers.
Lacquer
Lacquer is frequently used on budget shutters due to its fast application and quick drying time. However, it is one of the least durable finishes available. Common issues associated with lacquer include:
As a result, lacquered shutters may appear worn within just 3 to 5 years, particularly in climates like California and Nevada.
Polyurethane provides a harder finish compared to lacquer, but it also has its drawbacks:
Overall, polyurethane is more suitable for flooring than for shutters.
Enamel is often marketed as a durable option, but its performance on shutters can be misleading:
Enamel paint may be effective on trim, but is not recommended for louvers that are exposed to heat.
Some shutter manufacturers opt for PVC film wraps instead of traditional paint. These wraps come with their own set of challenges:
Once peeling begins, the shutters may need to be completely replaced.
Superior UV Resistance
This non-yellowing formulation ensures shutters maintain their bright, clean appearance for many years.
Heat Stability Up to 180°F+
Designed to withstand high temperatures, acrylic urethane will not soften or become sticky, even in hot environments.
Durable, Smooth Finish
Features a hard, furniture-grade finish that resembles cabinetry rather than typical plastic materials.
Exceptional Flexibility
This material can flex with the wood it protects, preventing any cracks from forming.
Effortless Maintenance
The surface is resistant to fingerprints, oils, dust, and abrasions, making it easy to clean.
Long-term Aesthetic Consistency
Unlike other finishes that may dull, cloud, or crack over time, acrylic urethane maintains a consistent appearance.
Perfect for Designers and Luxury Homes
Offers a matte, smooth architectural look with no orange peel texture or glossy plastic shine, making it ideal for upscale designs
Why Elizabeth Shutters Uses Acrylic Urethane on Every Whole Basswood Shutter
Elizabeth Shutters specializes in crafting shutters that resemble premium furniture, specifically designed for the unique climates of California and Nevada. Their finishing process utilizes an acrylic urethane that includes several key features:
This careful approach elevates traditional paint jobs by incorporating a premium finishing system that outperforms competitors' offerings. Consequently, their shutters retain a vibrant look for decades, rather than fading after just a few years. This remarkable longevity strengthens Elizabeth Shutters' status as the best shutter company in California, winning the confidence of designers, remodelers, and contractors for upscale home projects.