Plantation shutters can add a unique look to any home. Historically, they were used for protection against the elements, as well as against intruders, but in recent times, have been used to make more of a design statement. But what are they?
They're window shutters that mount inside or outside a window, and feature adjustable louvers for independent regulation of light emission as well as climate control. They can act as a barrier for drafts from cracks around the windows.
They can be used singly, or across an entire bank of windows, which looks especially nice. Sometimes several shutters are hinged together to cover an exceptionally large window. Generally, you'll see that in a commercial setting, such as a restaurant with a patio, but sometimes you'll see it in homes with large openings to decorate.
Hurricane shutters are popular in areas susceptible to hurricane activity. They're more for protection against flying debris and broken glass.
There is nothing like the warm, rich look of real wood shutters, but sometimes wood isn't practical, either from a logistics standpoint or a financial standpoint. Shutters can be used anywhere, from living rooms, to dining rooms, to kitchens, to bathrooms. If they're made of wood, they should be kept from moisture, as they can crack, swell or warp. This means they're not the best choice for bathrooms, kitchens, or near hot tubs or Jacuzzis. However, many types of faux wood are available, which are made of materials that won't warp.
Installing shutters can be a simple home repair and improvement project even for those not comfortable with this sort of thing. If desired, you can call a local professional to install them for you. If you choose to tackle the project yourself, allow about an hour per window for installation. Here are some tips to installing your own plantation shutters:
1) Make sure you know the measurements of the window. Check the dimensions of the window so you can determine that its angles are correct. Unlike a soft window covering, which can be moved to cover bad angles, windows that are being prepared to accept shutters need to be square. If they're not, the shutters will need to be adjusted to fit.
2) If you need to cut the shutters to fit, cut it slightly larger than the opening.'
3) Use two hinges for shutters 30 inches or less in height. Use three hinges if your shutters fall between 30 to 48 inches. Install hinges on the opposite side of the shutter opening.
4) Install the latch. Take into consideration who will be using this shutter. If small children have access to it, consider installing the latch out of their reach.
Shutters have come a long way from being a measure of protection. Now they just offer a new way to decorate one's home.
Focusing on the area of storm protection, George Davidsberg writes primarily for http://www.shades-blinds-shutters-guide.com . His contributions are on http://www.shades-blinds-shutters-guide.com/plantation-shutters.html
- Related Videos
- Related Articles
- Ask / Related Q&A
Bathroom Sinks: Form Vs. Function
By: Jeremy Stanfords | 12/11/2009When it comes to the type of bathroom sinks that we desire in our homes, most will try to find that happy balance between great looks and usefulness. While those crystal clear, see-through bowl type sinks or those burbling fountain-style jobs look pretty neat, they aren't always the most functional...
How to Install Bathroom Sinks
By: Jeremy Stanfords | 12/11/2009Tips and tricks for making changes in the powder room. Installing bathroom sinks can be quite intimidating for those that are not the average handyman. Since the modern bathroom has increased in size, so has the type of bathroom sinks that are used for installation. Some of the different variations include...
Try Everything Including the Kitchen Sink
By: Jeremy Stanfords | 12/11/2009Dating back to prehistoric times, sinks originally simply served a particular plumbing function. Generally used to wash small items, sinks were chosen based on their durability and the size needed for specific tasks. Unless you were royalty or extremely wealthy, it was not until the middle of the 20th century...
Gunite pools – the best choice in pool installation
By: Editor123 | 12/11/2009Everyone dreams of a huge house with a lovely swimming pool in it, where one can host pool parties and have good time. However, having a pool is becoming increasing affordable and one does not need to always shell out big bucks.
AC Repair Basics: Understanding Air-Conditioning Repair Procedures
By: Business Local Listings | 12/11/2009Air conditioning repair shops in Tampa, FL get a number of common complaints with room ACs. The mechanics of a working air conditioner is not a mere process of turning warn air into cool air. Once we understand how it all works, the easier it would be for us to comprehend air conditioning repair. Repair companies in Tampa, FL are called everyday for their services and it sometimes helps to understand how they get it fixed.
What is a Full Service Electrical Contractor?
By: Business Local Listings | 12/11/2009A licensed full service electrical contractor company also upgrades and services electrical panels. It does regular electric inspection and the necessary electric repairs and maintenance for the electrical systems it is responsible for. Maintenance and repair may cover the servicing of street lights, parking lot lighting, landscape lighting and commercial lights. A licensed full service electrical contractor company is also prepared to meet any emergency with fully equipped bucket trucks.
Home Heating With Space Heaters
By: Steve Montoya | 12/11/2009This Portable Heater will be handy this winter sometimes it is good to have a little extra heat in your bathroom, bedroom, or even out in the work shop. A Convection Heaters is my solution. The New Line of space heaters, give the best source of heat, that makes them a superior alternative for numerous heating demands. Convection Heaters Can be used anywhere in the home. . So many wonderful features. Features like roll around wheels, Tip-over safety switch, temperature control therm...
Great Outdoor Illumination from an Outdoor Light Sconce
By: John Warner | 11/11/2009No matter how pretty the inside of your home is, if it is dark on the outside, there is no way that it will have the overall appeal that you would want. To change this, you can have an outdoor light sconce installed in strategic corners of the house.
Using Debt Consolidation Servies To Become Debt Free
By: George M. Davidsberg | 03/06/2007 | FinanceDebt consolidation is a self-explanatory term; you take all your debts and consolidate it into one easy to manage payment. This allows you to be more organized and not miss any payments because they are too hard to keep track of. Harassing creditors are one of the reasons...
Plantation Shutters And Hurricane Shutters
By: George M. Davidsberg | 08/05/2007 | Home ImprovementPlantation shutters can add a unique look to any home. Historically, they were used for protection against the elements, as well as against intruders, but in recent times, have been used to make more of a design statement. But what are they? They're window shutters that mount inside or outside...
Managing Your Credit Cards Through Consolidation
By: George M. Davidsberg | 27/03/2007 | FinanceConsolidating your credit card debt is accomplished by grouping together all your unsecured debt into one debt with one payment. There are agencies that can help you to consolidate your debt and they will negotiate for you with your creditors, often enabling you to pay less each month and...
Credit Card Debt Counseling
By: George M. Davidsberg | 26/03/2007 | FinanceIt's not much fun being deeply in debt. Often times you may find it very difficult to see your way out of a problem like this. If you find that you can't manage your debt on your own there are programs that can help. One of these...
Are There Risks Involved With Debt Consolidation Services?
By: George M. Davidsberg | 08/02/2007 | FinanceAre you currently carrying a massive debt load? Do you wonder if it another bill collector ever time your telephone rings? Do you wake up at night wondering if you've forgotten to pay something? If so you may want to consider seeking the help of a debt...
Why Credit Repair Counseling Is Losing Credibility
By: George M. Davidsberg | 01/02/2007 | FinanceLegitimate credit repair services are losing credibility because of some unscrupulous companies that purposely mislead customers who put their trust in them to help them repair their credit. It is widely believed that you can repair your own credit without the help of a credit repair service. The only real...
Hurrican Shutters For Protection
By: George M. Davidsberg | 31/01/2007 | Home ImprovementThere are many types of shutters that you can choose from when you are going to update your home. Two different types to choose from would be hurricane shutters and plantation shutters. There are other viable options that are out there and it is completely up to you...