Plantation Shutters
Elevate Your Home or Office’s Aesthetic
Plantation shutters originated in the American South, where they were used on large farms and estates. People found the traditional use of drapery and curtains too stifling for the humid summers, which led to the development of this efficient type of window covering. Today’s plantation shutters come in a wide variety of appearances and louver (slat) sizes, and Rita can pair them with countless modern interior design styles, from industrial to shabby chic.
The Benefits of Plantation Shutters
The large louvers on plantation shutters mean that they offer the best of both worlds. When opened, a significant amount of natural light and airflow can reach the people inside. When they are closed, they do an excellent job at blocking out light and providing clients with all of the privacy they desire.
While plantation shutters were nearly always painted white before the invention of air conditioning to reflect heat, today’s shutters can be any color the client desires, such as dark brown and black.
Plantation shutters can also rest in a “double hung” fashion. This means that the top louvers can be opened while the bottom ones remain closed. This style offers an exceptional amount of function in everyday life.
Plantation shutters are often seen as an investment on a property or home, as they are built to last a very long time and will likely raise the value of the building. Clients will also not have to update window furnishings/blinds on a seasonal basis.
Are you interesting in exploring the possibility of fitting your windows for plantation shutters? Rita would like to talk to you today about your options. She will visit you for an in-person consultation that involves measurements, a detailed discussion of the proposed design, and countless samples. This appointment is free! New clients from all over the Dallas area and surrounding cities are welcomed.
Plantation Shutters FAQs
How Do Plantation Shutters Work?
Plantation shutters are attached to the window frame or to a track just outside the window frame. Often, they have a tilt bar in the center that allows you to adjust the louvers for better light control and privacy. However, some varieties do not need that center bar. They have a hidden tilt feature that provides a more streamlined appearance.
Plantation shutters can also be opened all the way for those times when you want an unobstructed view through your window (you just need to make sure you have enough interior clearance so the shutters do not hit furniture when you open them). Several shutters can be linked together and open in an accordion style fashion for larger windows.
What Are Plantation Shutters Made Of?
Wooden plantation shutters have a long history, and they deliver a classic and elegant look. However, wood is not your only option. For example, vinyl offers additional strength, durability, and weather protection. Vinyl can even be colored and designed in a way that imitates natural materials.
How Long Do Plantation Shutters Last?
Barring any unforeseen accidents, plantation shutters can last virtually forever. They are a built-in feature of your home that has the potential to endure for decades. Maintenance is also easy. Simply dust them weekly or wipe them down with a damp cloth. If damage occurs or if the track ever seems not to be working, you may need to tighten some screws, realign panels, and perform other basic repairs.
Some people are a bit reluctant to commit to shutters because they last so long; after all, you might want to periodically switch up your home’s style! There is no need to worry. You can layer shutters with other window coverings if you like the idea of seasonally updating your space’s aesthetics.
Can Plantation Shutters Work for Any Window?
Shutters are versatile and can be made for windows of virtually any size or shape. However, the individual panel widths are usually limited to 10 – 30 inches. This helps prevent sagging.
If you have particularly unique windows, Rita can help you determine whether shutters or another option would be the best way to outfit them.
Can Plantation Shutters Be Motorized?
Yes! Motorization offers a modern upgrade for a classic window treatment. Choosing a motorized option can allow for convenient, hands-free louver operation. You may even be able to program the shutters to open and close at specific times of day, which can help with light and heat control depending on where the sun is at any given moment.
Rita can help you understand motorization options and their cost so you can make a well-informed decision that fits your personal circumstances and preferences.