What to Look for in Plantation Shutters

Plantation shutters are a simple, elegant way to enhance the beauty of your home. They look great with both traditional and contemporary decors and last a lifetime. Historically, plantation shutters were used to keep debris out of homes. Today, homeowners select plantation shutters for their attractive qualities. Plantation shutters also offer an array of benefits, such as their ability to regulate and block out light and insulate your home.

What to look for in Plantation Shutters: To choose the best plantation shutters for your home, you should have a general idea of what to look for in plantation shutters.

Waterproof:
Make sure your plantation shutters are waterproof, especially if you live in a high humidity area. Water can also be a destructive force around bathrooms and kitchens, so don’t forget to consider this when choosing your plantation shutters. Otherwise, your shutters may crack or mildew.

Washable:
Make sure your plantation shutters are washable. If you open your windows often, you know that blinds and shutters accumulate dust; and if you have kids, you know that crayon markings can end up anywhere. Thus, make sure that your shutters can be washed with soap and water. Look for shutters that can easily be removed from the window and then reinstalled. That way, you will be able to remove the shutters as necessary, wash them, and reinstall them yourself.

Energy Efficient:
Shutters should be energy efficient, insulating your home in the winter and keeping heat out during the summer. To save your heating and cooling bill, look for interior window shutters that are energy efficient. Shutters with a cellular construction that have pockets of air designed into the louver and frame should do the trick. This type of construction virtually eliminates solar heat gain during summer months, and provides excellent insulation during the winter months.

Shutter Durability and Material Choice:
Your plantation shutters should last years. Look for shutters that are backed by a 25-year warranty as well as a guarantee that the shutters will not warp, crack, chip or fade. Also, look for plantation shutters that won’t dent or scratch and are made from the best materials. Most plantation shutters are made from actual wood or faux (engineered) materials.
- Tip: Faux shutters are the most durable type of plantation shutter and are built to last a lifetime.

Fire-Safe:
Look for shutters with a flame-retardant built right into the material. By installing shutters that resist ignition and prevent flame spread, you can keep your home safe from fires.

Additional Benefits of Plantation Shutters: Plantation shutters offer additional benefits that you may have not considered. Below are additional benefits of plantation shutters.

Child Safety:
Plantation shutters have no dangling cords, making it a safe window covering for families with children or pets.

Style and Color:
Plantation shutters are perfect for any home. For the best look, get shutters in colors that compliment your home. You can find shutters in cotton white, creamy vanilla, pearl or sandstone. Shutters also come in a variety of sizes and frame styles.

Privacy and Ease of Use:
Unlike blinds or shades, plantation shutters cover the entire window, providing privacy for homeowners. Plantation shutters are also easily opened and closed with a tilt bar instead of a dangling cord.

Plantation shutters are a great addition to your home. Unlike drapery that can only be open or closed, shutters can be partially opened and tilted in different directions. Plantation shutters are also classy, attractive, energy efficient and long-lasting. When you are selecting shutters for your home, make sure they have the attributes listed above before you locate a plantation shutter dealer.