A Comprehensive Checklist for Purchasing Plantation Shutters: Top 10 Things You Should Be Aware Of

Plantation shutters are a great window treatment for those who want privacy, but also don’t really care for traditional curtains or blinds. In this guide, we will share 10 things to take into consideration when you’re considering purchasing shutters for your own home.

Have you considered upgrading your home recently, only to decide against it due to the large amount of money required to do so? Plenty of people think along the same lines, but only a few know the real secret.

Professionally installed plantation shutters will not only change the look of your home, they will increase the value of it, too. While this option may not be the cheapest upgrade to your home, these shutters are far less expensive than full renovations.

We have compiled 10 things you should know about choosing to install plantation shutters in your home. Keep reading for more information!

1. Types of Plantation Shutters

There are a few types of shutters available to choose from when redesigning your room. Synthetic and timber shutters are options for installation inside the home, while aluminium shutters are available for outside.

Both synthetic shutters and timber shutters each have a few options to choose from. The main differences between the two are price and the fact that synthetic material will hold up better in moist environments like bathrooms.

Aluminium shutters are made for the outdoors, made out of the strongest materials on the market today, and are able to stand up to Australian weather.

2. Louvre Size Matters

The louvres, slats controlling light and view, come in three primary sizes: 6.35 cm, 8.89 cm, and 11.43 cm. Selecting a size could be a challenge, but a helpful consideration is that larger windows usually complement larger louvres. This isn’t a strict rule, as both large and small louvre sizes can influence the feel of your home, with the former being more modern and the latter traditional. Plantation shutter installations aren’t ideal for DIY; hiring a professional to assist ensures not only a valid warranty but correct installation to help inhibit potential warping from UV light exposure.

4. Your Home’s Value Will Increase

Knowing which upgrades and renovations will give a return on their investment is important. Plantation shutters are considered by appraisers as a ‘hard fixture upgrade.‘

5. Other Added Value

Keep in mind that although purchasing shutters involves an initial cost, it leads to savings over time. This saving comes from the plantation shutters’ ability to absorb heat, leading to a cooler home and reduced energy bills, an attractive point for potential home buyers. Furthermore, there are several aspects to consider when choosing a shutter, such as colour stains, the length of the plantation shutters, the choice between central or hidden tilt rods, and potential motorization options. Lastly, plantation shutters are nominally maintenance with easy-to-clean louvres, making them ideal for households with allergy or asthma sufferers.

9. Mid-rails for Privacy

If you opt for full window shutters, you lose the ability to draw your blinds halfway or three-quarters of the way up.

Some people enjoy allowing a bit of light without having the heat beat down on them. This doesn’t mean that plantation shutters aren’t for you, it just means you should opt for a mid-rail.

Midrails basically separate the shutters so that one portion or another can be opened independently, allowing more or less light and more or less privacy.

10. Small Yet Noticeable Upgrades

Plantation shutter upgrades, often as affordable as $25 per window, can significantly improve their appearance and perceived value. Such details catch the eye of visitors and potential buyers, enhancing the overall appeal of your home. A professional installer can guide you in selecting the most suitable upgrades to enrich your home’s aesthetic.

Final Thoughts

There are clearly a number of great benefits of installing plantation shutters. They add value to your home if it is on the market, and put money in your pocket if you’re there for the long haul.

Shutters are customizable to match any look from contemporary to traditional, easy to clean–the benefits go on and on.

However, if you are considering upgrading your home with this type of window treatment, you will need a professional installer. That’s where we come in!

If you’d like to get a general idea of pricing, we also offer free estimates and consultations to find the best look for your home!