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Plantation shutters are a simple and stylish addition to any home. Plantation shutters compliment both traditional and contemporary homes and increase the resale value of your home. Before you decide on the style, size and color of your interior window shutters, read some frequently asked questions about plantation shutters.
Why have Plantation Shutters become increasingly popular?
Shutters have long been a popular alternative to curtains and blinds for their many benefits. Plantation shutters are popular for a variety of reasons:
- Attractive and classy
- Effective way to control light and ventilation
- Provide privacy
- Improve insulation, reducing your heating bill
- Easy to clean
- Durable
- Increase home's value
What are the Parts of a Plantation Shutter Called?
A shutter is comprised of five main components:
1. Louvers are the blades of the shutters and come in sizes ranging from 2 1/2 to 4 1/2 inches. Larger windows tend to have the 4 ½ inch louvers while the smaller louvers may be more appropriate for smaller windows.
2. The Tilt-Bar controls the rotation of the louvers, allowing you to control light, privacy and ventilation. The tilt bar is usually in the middle of the shutter, but it may also be in the front of the shutter or hidden in the rear.
3. The Top and Bottom Rails offer structural support and are the upper and lower parts of a plantation shutter panel.
4. The Divider Rail provides additional strength and runs through the center of some shutters. Divider rails are used when you want to close the lower louvers for additional privacy. The divider rails also allow you to open the louvers above the divider rail.
5. The Frame surrounds the shutter and is the decorative touch that finishes off the window.
What Sizes do Louver Blades come in?
Louvers typically come in three sizes--2 1/2 inches, 3 1/2 inches and 4 1/2 inches.
What Colors do Shutters come in?
Plantation shutters come in a variety of shutters. Most companies offer plantation shutters in neutral or beige colors such as Cotton or Sandstone.
How do I Move Plantation Shutter Blades?
Moving plantation shutter blades is easy. If you install traditional plantation shutters, you can use a tilt-bar that runs down the middle of each shutter to open and close the louvers. You may also be able to order hidden rear tilt-bars, which are also easy to adjust how open the louvers are.
How long does it take to have Plantation Shutters Installed?
Depending on the size of your home and the location of your shutters will depend on how long it takes to install plantation shutters. Shutter installation can usually be installed in a matter of hours and at most a full day by a professional plantation shutter installer. They can easily be installed by the dealer or designer from whom you ordered the shutters from.
Can I get a Warranty on my Shutters?
Most shutter companies offer a warranty on their shutters. Look for a company with a 25-year warranty so you can enjoy them for many years without having to worry about warping, fading or cracking.
Can I move Plantation Shutters from House to House?
This is a leading plantation shutter FAQ. Since plantation shutters are custom made to fit your windows, you cannot move them. However, these shutters can increase the market value of your home by several percentage points.
Plantation shutters are interior shutters installed inside a window. Though the name is often used to describe any interior window shutters, true plantation shutters feature that are 2 ½ to 4 ½ inches wide, set into panels that are 12 to 19 ½ inches. The panels can be adjusted as needed to let in light or to keep it out. This adds shade to a home and can even help reduce the energy bills. Shutters also add privacy in areas that require it. For this reason, many people install plantation shutters in large windows over the bathtub or in the bedroom. Many people also use plantation shutters in windows facing the street. Plantation shutters can be used in every window in the home, but the cost for this would be great.
Plantation shutters are available in most every type of wood or in vinyl. Customers looking for a stained look should buy wooden shutters as vinyl offers a painted look. Some new vinyl shutters are made to replicate the look of wood. These are a cheaper alternative for those desiring wood.
Plantation shutter installation is a relatively easy do-it-yourself project. Installation is quick and requires few tools. If you prefer, some companies do offer installation at an additional price. Contractors or “handymen for hire” can also be hired to install the shutters.
If you do opt to do the installation yourself, the most important thing is to accurately measure. You will want to make sure that your shutters are a precise fit for your window. An inaccurate fit will greatly detract from the shutters' look and value. Manufacturers will offer detailed installation instructions. Home improvement stores also offer tips and suggestions for installation. In addition, instructions are available on the Internet.
For a classy and long-lasting window cover, consider plantation shutters. They add privacy, shade, beauty -- and perceived value.