What is the difference between Poplar and Elm for making shutters?
Poplar has a very smooth straight grain. Therefore if you order your shutters with a painted finish, the shutter panels, slats and frames all have a very smooth finish. Elm is a wood very similar in appearance to Oak. It has a deep grain which is apparent both visually and to the touch. Generally speaking most customers prefer the look of a poplar shutter when choosing a painted finish for their shutters and when choosing a stain are split between Poplar and Elm. Ultimately, it comes down to personal preference.
