Window shutters have been around for hundreds of years. In this day and age, many people are investing in renovations to increase the value of their homes as well as the aesthetic appeal. If you are tired of curtains and blinds and you are looking to upgrade your windows by getting window shutters, then here’s a complete guide to window shutters for you.
Why Should You Consider Window Shutters?
Window shutters are designed to perform two major functions; offer protection against elements such as wind while giving privacy and also provide your house with a decorative look. Window shutters are also timeless, and they come in a variety of sizes and shapes while consistently giving your home a beautiful look, which increases its value.
Window Coverage of Window Shutters
There are different coverages of window shutters, and each serves various purposes. Here are the most popular types of coverages for window shutters;
Full Height Shutters
These are plantation window shutters which cover the window from top to bottom. You have the option of choosing the number of panels you want. Due to their design, they give the home an open, inviting appearance. A wooden shutter rail can be used to separate these plantation shutters.
Cafe Style Shutters
If you are tired of people peeping through your windows, then these might be the ideal shutters for you. They cover the lower section of the window, leaving the top part open, but you can use a curtain to cover the top. Choose narrow panels if you intend to keep the shutters open most of the time and wide panels if otherwise.
Tier-on-tier Shutters
These shutters are designed to allow you to open the top and bottom sections of the window independently. They allow you to let the light come into the room while still maintaining your privacy.
Window Shutter Materials
The material determines the cost, life span, and aesthetic appeal of the shutters.
Wood
Wood shutters are mainly made from pine, oak, maple, and alder. They can be painted to your preferred colour. They are not ideal for exterior locations because they tend to be affected by extreme weather conditions; thus, you need to repaint and replace them often.
Plastic
These are cheaper than wood, and they are more flexible. However, they get affected by high temperatures; thus, they are only ideal for small spaces.
Aluminium
They are the best for exteriors as they can withstand extreme temperatures. They are not ideal for the interior since aluminium is a good conductor of heat and thus decreases the temperatures in a room. Other window shutters are made from a combination of these materials, and they are known as composite window shutters.
Interior Vs. Exterior Window Shutters
Exterior window shutters are mainly for aesthetic appeal, but they can also provide privacy. On the other hand, interior shutters are more functional.
Panel Styles
The most common panels are louvered, half-louvered, board, batten, shaker, plantation and raised panels. The right window shutters can make your old house look like a new one. With this detailed guide, you are will make an informed decision on your choice of window shutters.