Letting natural light in is beneficial, that’s for sure, especially if we consider how positively it affects our sleep by improving our circadian rhythms, our focus as much as our energy levels and vitamin D production. But, there can be times when it can be too much of a good thing, especially if your home is facing most of the sun during the day, which could be at the detriment of your flooring, and furnishings.
This is where window coverings turn out to be crucial. Still, the kind of covering you get has a say in how much light control you have; curtains may look luxurious, yet they can’t cover up as much as shutters can. They’re timeless, insulating, can easily fit in your décor scheme, and on top of it all they’re also easy to care for so you don’t have to worry about another cumbersome chore.
With so many options of plantation shutters blinds however, you need to know what it is you prefer in a design, to make the most of the purchase. And for that, you can count on our tips.
Consider a Custom Solution
You may have some odd windows to begin with, or your style is something you don’t negotiate with – whichever the reason, getting custom shutters for your home is a long-term investment that truly pays off with time. You may get to pay up more upfront, but that would certainly prove to be a cost-efficient solution eventually, as you get to decide on every detail of these window covers to get the perfect finish you’re after. From the colour of the shutters, to the design of the hardware, your choice matters all the way.
Give Louvres Your Attention
The angled slats are plantation shutters blinds elements that are important if you consider the overall look and function of these coverings. The three main options are:
- The 2.5” louvres – If you have a home in traditional style and you like to keep up with the aesthetic, the smallest slats can provide it. These are also the solution for windows with less depth. The downside is that there are too many of them in a shutter, which can be too cluttered for some people. Not to mention, they also make it more difficult to clean.
- The 3.5” louvres – If you’d like the in-between choice that’s neither too small nor too big and offers you the perfect amount of light control and privacy, this is it. This louvres’ size suits most windows (those medium and large sized) and most homes, and it offers less of an obstructed view compared to the smaller alternative.
- The 4.5” louvres – As these are quite big, there are fewer of them in a shutter, so they make for the most unobstructed view. Not surprisingly, they became particularly popular with modern homes where letting more light in matters, as much as those homes that are blessed with scenic views. Combined with hidden tilt rods, they make for a seamless look that also makes for easy cleaning.
Don’t Forget the Smaller Details
Every detail counts when it comes to the result you would get with the décor, so remember not to overlook elements like hidden hinges, shutter pulls and shutter locks. Your choice can determine the ease of use, as well as the design outcome.
Ask if the manufacturer would allow you to also select the colour or material for a more customised approach that would get you the harmonious blend you’re after with the rest of the hardware in the rooms. Do you want to get the tilt rods centre-stage, or those out of sight? Do you prefer to operate the shutters manually, or you wouldn’t mind a modern motorised solution? Every detail counts, so be sure to go over them all for a well-tailored window covering.
Get Samples
When in doubt, especially when ordering online shutters, it’s important to find a company that can assist you with your shopping by sending you their samples. Checking a product out online can give you some idea, sure, but it’s not always that the colour on the screen matches the actual colour. What’s more, by getting a sample of the shutters, you’d be in the know of the material and make, so you can feel more confident about making the purchase and inviting these window coverings into your home.
Think the Installation Through
Some people would love a good challenge the DIY shutter installation provides, and there’s nothing wrong with that. I’d just like to remind you of all the things that are at stake with this kind of project, especially if you’re not experienced in it. Unless you install the frame properly, you risk bending it, causing cracks, as well as permanent damage that could affect the shutters’ function.
Additionally, you could put strain on the hinges, besides poorly affecting the aesthetic with imperfect frames. So, if you do decide to take matters into your own hands out of thinking it to be a cheaper solution as opposed to professional installation, make sure you go over the instruction manual more than once and ask the shop for advice if you have any doubts. Watching some guides and step-by-step videos can be of help too as you’re getting the gist of it.
