Shutters are a classic window covering that never seem to go out of style. With their clean lines and versatility, it’s easy to see why they remain popular in homes today. When it comes to shutters, two big brand names always seem to come up – Graber and Norman.
But which is the better option for your home?
Both Graber and Norman are well-known and respected brands when it comes to shutters. They each offer high quality products and plenty of customization options.
In this article, we’ll take an in-depth look at Graber and Norman shutters, comparing the pros and cons of each to help you determine which is the right choice for your home.
A Brief Comparison Table
| Feature | Graber | Norman |
| Materials | Basswood, poplar, composite, vinyl | Basswood, poplar, red oak, composite, vinyl |
| Interior vs. Exterior | Both interior and exterior | Interior only |
| Quality Reputation | Known for durability and quality | Known for exceptional craftsmanship and detail |
| Price | Mid-range | Mid to high-range |
| Customization | Fully customizable sizing and features | Focuses on specialty and custom shapes |
| Style Selection | Huge variety of shutter styles | Also has expansive style selection |
| Warranty | Lifetime limited | Lifetime limited |
Overview of Graber Shutters
Graber is one of the most recognized names in the window treatments industry. They’ve been manufacturing interior and exterior shutters for over 65 years and are known for making stylish, durable, and versatile products.
Some key things to know about Graber shutters:
- Materials – Offered in basswood, poplar, composite, and vinyl. Basswood is the most common.
- Types – Provide both interior and exterior shutters in louvered, raised panel, and specialty styles.
- Customization – Graber shutters can be customized in size, shape, materials, colors, and features.
- Quality – Backed by a lifetime limited warranty. Graber shutters are built to last.
- Price – Mid-range. Graber shutters are reasonably priced for the quality.
Graber has a vast selection of shutter styles, colors, and materials to choose from. No matter your design needs, they likely have a shutter option to match.
Overview of Norman Shutters
Norman Shutters has been around since 1949 and has made a name for itself providing stylish, high-quality interior shutters.
Some key things to know about Norman shutters:
- Materials – Offered in basswood, poplar, red oak, composite, and vinyl. Basswood is most common.
- Types – Focus on interior shutters in louvered, raised panel, and specialty styles. Don’t offer exterior.
- Customization – Fully customizable in size, shape, materials, colors, and features.
- Quality – Lifetime limited warranty. Built to last using quality materials.
- Price – Mid to high-range. Comparable or slightly higher priced than Graber.
Norman provides an expansive selection of materials, colors, and designs to customize your perfect shutter. They are known for quality craftsmanship and attention to detail.
Now that we’ve covered the basics, let’s do a side-by-side comparison of these two brands.
Key Differences Between Graber And Norman Shutters
While Graber and Norman are both quality brands, there are some important differences between the two:
Materials
- Graber offers shutters in basswood, poplar, composite, and vinyl
- Norman offers basswood, poplar, red oak, composite, and vinyl
The material options are comparable. Both offer the popular basswood along with more budget-friendly poplar and durable composite. Norman also provides a red oak option not offered by Graber.
Interior vs. Exterior Shutters
- Graber sells both interior and exterior shutters
- Norman sells only interior shutters
This is a key difference. Graber is the only option if you need exterior shutters for curb appeal. However, Norman’s focus on interior may allow more custom shapes and options.
Quality Reputation
- Both have strong reputations for quality and durability
- Norman is known for exceptional craftsmanship and detail
It’s hard to declare a winner here. Both brands make high-quality, durable shutters backed by lifetime warranties. Norman may have a slight edge in craftsmanship.
Price
- Graber is moderately priced
- Norman is mid to high-range
Norman shutters tend to cost a little more than Graber. However, the quality craftsmanship Norman provides makes the extra cost worth it for many homeowners.
Customization Options
- Both brands allow for full customization
- Norman may provide more specialty/custom shapes
The customization capabilities are strong with both brands. However, Norman’s focus on interior shutters only may allow them to offer more specialty or custom shapes.
Style Selection
- Graber offers a huge variety of shutter styles
- Norman also has an expansive style selection
Both Graber and Norman offer an immense selection of shutter styles – from classic louvered to unique specialty designs. You can find on-trend modern shutters or classic traditional shutters with either brand.
Which Is The Better Brand For Your Home?
Now that we’ve compared the key differences, which brand is better for your home?
Here are a few factors to help you decide:
- Budget – If budget is a primary concern, Graber is likely the more affordable option. Their prices are a bit lower than Norman across most product lines.
- Exterior Shutters – For exterior shutters, Graber is the only option here. They have a great selection of outdoor shutters not offered by Norman.
- Quality Craftsmanship – If handcrafted quality is important, Norman may be the better choice. Their exceptional attention to detail gives them an advantage.
- Custom/Specialty Shapes – Norman provides more made-to-order custom shapes for unique needs or niche spaces.
- Style Selection – For an immense variety, both are equal contenders. You’ll find any shutter style imaginable with either brand.
- Location – Availability may also guide your decision. Review where local retailers carry each brand.
- Sustainability – Both use wood from sustainably managed forests. Graber offers recyclable vinyl while Norman has FSC-certified wood.
While both are great options, for most homeowners, the decision will come down to whether you need exterior shutters or the custom shapes Norman provides. If neither are must-haves, then budget and style selection may drive your choice.
Graber Shutters Pros and Cons
Let’s take a more detailed look at the pros and cons of Graber shutters:
Graber Shutters Pros
- Wide variety of shutter styles and colors
- Offer both interior and exterior shutters
- Very customizable sizing and features
- Reasonably priced relative to competitors
- Reputable company with 65+ years of shutter expertise
- Durable and built to last with lifetime warranty
Graber Shutters Cons
- Not quite as customizable as Norman for unique shapes
- Widely available, but some specialty retailers may not carry Graber
- Can be prone to warping or bowing in some climates
- Exterior vinyl shutters may become brittle and fade over time
Graber’s extensive style and color selection combined with lower pricing make them a solid choice for most homes. Just be aware exterior vinyl shutters require maintenance, and unique specialty shapes are harder to accommodate.
Norman Shutters Pros and Cons
And here’s a detailed look at the pros and cons of Norman shutters:
Norman Shutters Pros
- Exceptional craftsmanship and attention to detail
- Can accommodate more custom/specialty shapes
- Made-to-order manufacturing for each customer
- Use of quality materials like red oak and FSC-certified woods
- 72+ years of experience focused on interior shutters
- Wide range of styles, colors, and materials
Norman Shutters Cons
- Do not offer exterior shutter options
- Lead times can be longer due to made-to-order process
- No standard sizing if needing a quick or budget option
- Shutters are handmade so can be prone to slight variances
- Warranty does not cover color variances in wood over time
- Pricing is higher than competitors like Graber
Norman’s advantage lies in their craftsmanship, custom shapes, and quality materials. Just keep in mind the higher prices and longer lead times. If you don’t need exterior or basic stock shutters, Norman is a wonderful option.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
If you’re still weighing Graber and Norman shutters, here are answers to some common questions:
Yes, Graber manufactures high-quality shutters that stand the test of time. They use durable materials and construction methods. Their shutters are backed by a lifetime warranty, underscoring the brand’s faith in their products.
Both Graber and Norman produce excellent plantation shutters. Graber plantation shutters are known for their durability, color/finish options, and price point. Norman plantation shutters are favored for their craftsmanship and custom shapes. Both represent top plantation shutter brands.
Yes, Norman shutters are known for being extremely high quality. Norman uses the best materials and hand crafts each shutter, leading to an exceptional finished product. Their attention to detail gives them an advantage.
The “best” shutters depends on your needs. If budget is key, Graber provides the best value. For durability, composite or vinyl shutters are best. For craftsmanship and custom shapes, Norman is a top choice. And for curb appeal, Graber’s exterior shutters add great style.
Conclusion
When comparing Graber and Norman shutters, you can feel confident either brand will provide quality, style, and durability. Graber offers more budget-friendly pricing and exterior options. Norman excels at custom shapes and craftsmanship.
Carefully consider whether you need exterior shutters or more specialty shapes when making your decision. Also, factor in your budget and the styles you like most. With the information provided in this guide, you can determine which respected brand is the best choice for your next shutter project.
Both Graber and Norman represent leaders in the interior shutter industry.
