Shutters are a substantial expense so it’s important to make the right choice before making a purchase. There are many styles, colours, tilt options and materials to consider. These options can, if you are not careful, overwhelm you. The silver lining is that you can choose the right shutters for your home if you have the right information, which is why we have put together this brief guide to buying shutters.
Before Buying the Shutters
It may be best to consider how you will use shutters before committing to a design. You might want to consider whether they will mainly remain closed or whether you will want to open them a lot to let the light in and to keep each room cool. You may come to the conclusion that you would rather opt for curtains, in which you should have a look for the leading curtain makers in London to find the best option.
Bespoke or DIY?
The shutter’s style, the number of windows the shutters will cover and the material used will influence the amount you have to spend. Some companies can custom-make shutters while others sell them already made up. You may want to opt for ready-made options if you are on a budget. If this is the case you merely need to measure your space and place your order.
Types of Shutters
There are many types of shutters to consider.
- Full-height: Full height shutters are ideal for most windows, but are best for taller windows. They run the window’s full height and may have the extra functionality of independently closing and opening the louvre section.
- Tier-on-tier: These shutters have two independent parts, one under the other. You may close and open each section, so as only to let the light in through one part of each window. They are best for urban homes where you can open the upper part to control the room’s light but keep the bottom shutter closed for privacy.
- Cafe-style: These are shutters that are only fitted to the bottom part of the window. They may be ideal for rooms where absolute privacy is not necessary. However the downside is they do not offer complete darkness at night.
- Solid panel: This option creates a near blackout effect and protects you from outside noises.
- Shaped plantation shutters: Shaped plantation shutters are often used with uniquely shaped windows. For example you may get them for arched, curved, and angled windows. Expect to pay more for these kind of shutters
- Tracked/sliding plantation shutters: These are ideal for modern homes with large windows. You can get them as bi-pass and bi-fold and they are versatile with privacy and light control options.
Consider Materials
You can get shutters in a range of different materials. Typically you will find high-quality shutters are made of solid hardwood whereas cheaper options will be made of plastic. Choosing the best shutters for a home can have many benefits such as making the property feel more secure as well as improving the overall look.