When it comes to controlling light and heat better, plantation shutters are right on top of the list. They’re especially recommended for rooms that can be challenging to keep cool, particularly during the hot summer months. This includes rooms that face the South, or sunrooms. They’re stylish with a simplistic design, timeless, and add a sense of colonial grandeur to your space.
The sheer number of options out there can be overwhelming when you first start your research. For this reason, at Watsons we offer a personalised service so we can understand your unique needs first. We do this with an obligation-free, in-home consultation. Your expert consultant will assess all your options, while you thumb through the samples we bring along.
Certain parts of your home, like a sunroom for instance, are better enjoyed at cooler temperatures. These rooms are typically used to relax in, with a book or perhaps to indulge in a hobby. The glaring heat of the sun does no favours in this regard, making plantation blinds the ideal contender. Not only do they keep out heat, they allow light to still flow in too. Pretty important, especially if you use it for reading.
There are a few key areas you need to look at when shopping for plantation shutters. And when it comes to reasons why you need high quality plantation shutters in your home, there are plenty. We have hand-picked all of the critical points to help you choose, so you get an all-round insight. So without further ado, let’s jump right in and find out what you need to know.
1. Material
We often hear things like ‘black absorbs light’ and ‘white reflects light’. We also hear about how brick is better for homes thanks to their cooling capabilities compared to other materials. The same applies to window furnishings, in this case, plantation shutters occasionally referred to as shutter blinds.
Choosing the right material is the first step in the process. Plantation shutters normally come in timber, timer-look (PVC) and aluminium variations, with each offering their own features and benefits. Our customers typically ask us about the longevity, insulation and aesthetics of each of them as well.
Let’s break them down:
Timber:
Timber shutters are widely recognised as one of the most sophisticated window furnishings in modern day styling. They’re a great choice if you like the warmth, look and feel of natural timber. They can also be more easily moulded to fit any shape of window. Additionally, timber shutters are a feature that add value to your home. Very importantly, they’re excellent for blocking light and heat from the sun effectively.
However, everything has two sides and this is no different. Timber furnishings require precise care, and part of this means painting and varnishing periodically to keep them looking fresh. This will also help them last a long time. This is especially critical for shutters are exposed to moisture.
Our timber shutters are available in a range of finishes, and UV resistant colours. Complement your existing scheme by matching them to a wooden floor or the walls, or go for something that stands out instead.
Timber-look (PVC):
Timber-look shutters offer a great alternative to solid wood. Made out of PVC, they offer all the same drop-dead good looks without any of the maintenance headaches. As they don’t need to be varnished or painted, cleaning is simple; just dust/wipe the slats.
Strong and hardy, PVC shutters are naturally resistant to moisture and humidity thanks to their incredible material. This makes them the perfect choice for areas like the bathroom, laundry or kitchen. They offer excellent insulation properties, improving the thermal efficiency of your home. This means that your home will be cooler in the Summer, and warmer in Winter. Though they’re not available in as wide a colour range, they certainly meet your insulation needs if that’s your priority.
Aluminium:
Aluminium will give you strong, yet lightweight shutters. This material is also rust-resistant, making them perfect for all weather conditions. Used indoors, they can really stand the test of time. Outdoors, they can hold their own without warping, bending or cracking.
Aluminium shutters can also be powder-coated for a range of luxurious satin finishes, such as white and black. This powder-coating is designed to protect the lightweight material under it. Plus, they’re so easy to clean and honestly need no maintenance whatsoever.
They can also span a wider area, making them ideal for larger openings. The sleek material means they’re also suited to both modern and older homes. However, keep in mind that as it is metal, they’re not very good for insulation as they absorb and conduct heat.
2. Durability
While off-the-shelf shutters may seem like a good idea at the time because you’ve scored a bargain, over time it’s problematic. They can warp, sag and fade easily, especially when exposed to strong sunlight. Considering you want plantation shutters to conquer that very issue, this is probably not the best way to go.
Our plantation shutters are designed to withstand these concerns and built with high-quality, long-lasting materials. Additionally, if anything were to happen to them, we can easily fix them for you. You can create a space you’ll love to live in with window shutters by making the right choices.
3. Energy Efficiency
When choosing the right window furnishings, energy efficiency should be a top priority. While it’s of course important that the place looks nice, it wouldn’t be much use if it’s not functional.
Poor-quality window furnishings or the lack of, means that you’re likely paying more on your energy bill than you need. We’re guessing you don’t want to give away your hard-earned money so easily, so why not look at energy efficiency? It’s likely that the bulk of the cost is thanks to constantly heating and cooling your home. The solution? To create a barrier between your windows and home so air transfer is minimised.
Plantation shutters have powerful insulation capabilities, which means you will have to reach for the thermostat less. Not only will you be more comfortable, you can relax knowing your energy efficiency and thereby bills have improved.
Why are they so good at this? They’re installed with a tight fit, so that they enclose the window frame and are sealed against it. Overall, this helps resist heat transfer better. It’s also important to remember that though they look similar, they’re different to Venetian blinds.
4. Blackout Capability
Where there’s smoke there’s fire, and where there’s heat there’s light. Keeping out the heat in your home is easy, but doing so without compromising on light is the trick.
As much as you don’t want to miss out on all that beautiful sunshine, sometimes you want to block it out. Perhaps you’re settling in for a Netflix marathon, or perhaps you simply want to get in a nap. Whatever the need, blackout capabilities are an important requirement for any window furnishing. So how does this translate with plantation shutters?
The beauty of plantation shutters is that light control is entirely up to you. Because they’re made up of rows of slats, each of them can be manoeuvred as you please. This means that you can decide exactly how much light needs to come in from where. Also known as louvres, these slats come in different sizes and can be tilted at an angle.
You can also pair plantation shutters with sheer curtains which will help further diffuse light. Tie them back for a chic, classic look when not in use.
5. Customisation
With our selection of custom-made plantation shutters, you’re sure to find something that’s right for you. Choose your preferred material, colour and style, all as per your individual requirements. While retail may be easy and cheap, you won’t really find exactly what you’re looking for. So why waste that time and energy, when you can get a much better result from the comfort of your home? We can even tailor your shutters to fit any shape and type of window, be they arched, circular or even, heck, a pentagon!
At the end of the day, your home is a reflection of you and your personality. Naturally, you want it to be the best and we have the best. We also offer generous guarantees on our products, so you can sit back and enjoy your new interiors.
And how do you clean plantation shutters? Easy. Just wipe the slats down when they look dusty.
Feeling ready to give it a shot? Let’s get started by booking an appointment, and one of our consultants will come to you. Tell us what’s on your mind, so we can advise on which plantation shutters are the best.