What to Look for When Buying Shutters? 10 Essential Factors

Shutters are an excellent choice if you’re in the market for new window treatments. Not only do they offer unparalleled privacy and light control, but they also add a touch of sophistication and elegance to any room. But with so many choices, deciding whether shutters are right for you and what options to choose for the shutters can be overwhelming. That’s why we’ve compiled these 10 Essential Factors to help you make an informed decision. Keep reading to discover what to look for when buying shutters.

What to look for when buying shutters?: An Introduction

1. Aesthetics – Do you like the look of plantation shutters?

Shutters are a timeless window treatment that adds elegance and sophistication to any room. Plantation shutters, in particular, are a popular choice for homeowners who want a classic, upscale look. They feature wider louvers that provide a great view of the outdoors and are available in various materials, including wood, composite, vinyl, and poly. When choosing shutters, consider the design and color of your home, as well as your style and taste. Plantation Shutters have a distinctive look; does it match your taste?

2. Cost – Can you afford plantation shutters?

Shutters can be a significant investment, but they also offer long-term value and benefits that make them worth the cost. Plantation shutters are generally more expensive than most other window treatments, but they also increase the appraised value of your home. If you’re on a tight budget, you may want to consider composite or vinyl shutters, which are more affordable but still offer many of the benefits of wood shutters.

3. Time Frame – Can you wait for imported plantation shutters?

Are the imported shutters built as well as the domestic ones? If you’re in a hurry to install shutters in your home, you may want to consider domestic shutters made in the USA and can be delivered and installed more quickly than imported shutters. However, imported shutters sometimes cost less, but you should consider the build quality.

4. Material – Wood, Composite, Vinyl, or Poly?

Shutters are available in various materials, each with pros and cons. Wood shutters are a classic choice that offers timeless elegance and natural beauty. They are durable, long-lasting, and can be custom painted or stained to match your home’s décor. Composite shutters, on the other hand, are made from engineered wood and other materials, making them more affordable and resistant to heat and humidity. Vinyl shutters and poly shutters are the most affordable options and are ideal for areas with high humidity or moisture.

5. Frame – Inside or Outside Mount?

Shutters can be installed inside or outside the window opening, depending on the style and configuration of your windows. Inside mount shutters are installed within the window opening, while outside mount shutters are installed outside the window opening, on the wall or trim. Consider the style of your home, the size of your windows, and your personal preference when choosing between inside and outside mount shutters. If you like to tilt your windows in for cleaning, an outside mount frame is the best choice.

6. Tilt Control – Front Tilt or Hidden Tilt?

Tilt control refers to how the louvers are adjusted to control the amount of light and privacy in your home. Front tilt shutters feature a traditional tilt bar visible on the front of the shutters, while hidden tilt shutters have a concealed tilt bar located behind the shutter panel or inside the panel. Front tilt shutters are more traditional and offer a classic look, while hidden tilt shutters are more modern and offer a clean, streamlined appearance.

7. Louver Size – Small or Large?

You should choose the size of the louvers based on your personal preference and the style of your home. The size of the louvers affects the amount of light that comes through the shutters and the level of privacy they provide. Smaller louvers provide a more traditional look and more privacy, while larger louvers provide a more modern look and more light.

8. Color – Matching or Contrasting?

You should choose the color of the shutters that complements your home’s color scheme and enhances its overall look. The color of the shutters can match the trim of your window or contrast with it. You can also choose a color that matches the color of your walls or furniture. The hinge color can match your house hinges or match the shutter color you choose.

9. Panel Configuration – Small or Large?

The panel configuration refers to the number of panels used to cover the window. You can choose many small panels or fewer larger panels. Some people prefer many small panels because they feel like they will swing their shutter panels open a lot. However, most people hardly ever swing open the panels and just look through the louvers. You should choose the panel configuration based on your personal preference and the style of your home.

10. Installation – Professional or DIY?

It is highly recommended that you have a professional install your shutters. Not only will it ensure that they are installed correctly, but it will also prevent any potential damage to your windows or walls during installation. We provide professional installation services at New View Blinds and Shutters to ensure your shutters look and function perfectly.

What to Look for When Buying Shutters?: Conclusion and Next Steps

Plantation shutters are an excellent investment for any homeowner. They are not only aesthetically pleasing, but they also provide privacy, insulation, and increased home value. When shopping for shutters, it is essential to consider the aesthetics, cost, time frame, material, frame, tilt control, louver size, color, panel configuration, and installation. By considering these factors, you can ensure that you make the best decision for your home and your budget. Now you know what to look for when buying shutters.

At New View Blinds and Shutters, we are committed to providing our customers with high-quality shutters that are both functional and stylish. With a variety of materials, colors, and styles to choose from, we can help you find the perfect shutters for your home. Contact us today to schedule a consultation and take the first step toward enhancing the beauty and functionality of your home.