Factors to Consider When Buying Plantation Shutters

You can spot a plantation shutter by its tilted louvers that look like blind slats. But unlike blind slats, plantation shutters are:

• Fitted to a window frame
• Controlled by lifting and lowering a rod
• Able to open and close like doors

Plantation shutters are a popular alternative to more traditional window treatments for several reasons. Plantation shutters look nice, don’t sag over time, and are often sturdier, easier to clean, and resistant to fading. Plus, they offer light control, noise reduction, and increased energy efficiency because they help insulate.

Knowing why plantation shutters are great, you might find yourself shopping for some. How do you know which is right for your home? Below are some factors that you should consider when buying plantation shutters.

Louver Size  

If you want more light to enter your home, a better view of your yard, and a more contemporary look, then you’ll want larger louvers. Smaller louvers, on the other hand, are a more traditional look, blocking extra light because the louvers are closer together. For reference, louver sizing usually ranges from 2 ½ to 5 ½ inches.

Material 

The material that you select for your plantation shutters will affect both their durability and style. Your options include:

Wood

Wood is the most traditional material type. Many love how customizable it is since it can be painted or stained in any color and can be custom-made to fit specialty shapes. The downside is that wood shutters can be more expensive.

Composite

Composite shutters give the look and feel of a wood shutter but at a cheaper price. They’re made of a fiberboard that’s coated with a polypropylene wrap. This is a popular choice especially because it’s resistant to cracking, peeling, warping, and yellowing.  

Vinyl

Vinyl shutters are usually made with PVC. We don’t recommend this type of shutter because they are known for yellowing and cracking easily.

Tilt

Tilt rods are lifted and lowered to open and close the louvers. Your options include:

Traditional Tilt Rod

The most traditional tilt rod is one that’s front and center.

Hidden Tilt Rod

More modern plantation shutters have a hidden tilt rod that’s behind the louvers. It gives a cleaner look.

Split Tilt Rod

Split tilt rods are placed in different locations on your plantation shutter so you can control the top and bottom louvers separately.

Motorized Tilt Rod

Motorized tilt rods can be programmed to open the louvers for you, which is convenient for plantation shutters that are hard to reach.

Frame

There are many different types of plantation shutter frames, so the main advice we can give is to keep your eyes open and take note of the styles that you notice and like. Do you want a more polished look or a more decorative look? Some of your options include crown molded, flat shaker, direct mount, décor frame, Z-frame, and L-frame.

Latches, Locks, and Hinges

If you want your plantation shutters to add extra safety to your home, look for quality latches, locks, and hinges.

Color

White is a popular color choice for plantation shutters, but you’ll want to consider which color will best suit your home’s style. Make sure the color of your plantation shutters, hardware, and frame are aligned.  

Plantation Shutter Experts

If you still have more questions or aren’t sure which type of plantation shutter you want, you can contact ShadesToYou and our team will be happy to help. We’re here to share professional advice on interior design and to offer quality, brand-name custom window treatments for Florida residents.