Buying Shutters

August 12, 2019

Five Options to Consider When Buying Shutters

You’ve made the smart decision to purchase shutters. They are both attractive and a good investment in your home. So, what do you need to know before buying shutters? Here are a few key elements to consider while making your choice.

Where Would You Like Them?

Are you looking for whole home installation or just a few rooms? Will they be affixed to standard windows or are your windows custom sizes? Custom sizes are not a problem, nor are shutters for bay or bow windows. Planation shutters can also frame high arched windows, as well as French doors. Your shutter professional will work with you to get the coverage you desire.

Louver Sizes

Shutters are available with 2 ½ inch, 3 ½ inch and 4 ½ inch louvers. The larger the louver size, the greater the view of the outside world. If you have a stunning vista out of your window, you may want to go with 4 ½ inch shutters. 3 ½ inch shutters are the most popular size.

Tilt Options: Traditional Tilt Bar, Hidden Rear Tilt or Gear

Traditional tilt bar shutters are the most common style. The louvers are opened or closed using a center tilt bar on the front of the shutters. Hidden rear tilt shutters provide a contemporary design style as the tilt bar is affixed to the rear of the system and hidden from view whether the shutters are open or closed.  An optional upgrade is the new hidden gear system that offers the same modern look as hidden tilt shutters, but provides superior closure and one touch control of the louvers.

Mounting and Frame Options

Shutters can be mounted on the inside or outside the trim on your windows. Frame options can range from simple to decorative, and can accentuate or cover up existing trim.

Color

ultrasatin finish tab advantages

Last but definitely not least, is the option of color.  shutters are a decorative and functional purchase for the home, so you don’t want them to be a flashy color that is distracting when you look outside. Choose from neutral tones such as cotton or pearl, and vanilla if you seek a warmer texture.

Consumers should aim to match the trim on their windows. If you have dark trim, neutral colors will offer a distinct contrast that brings visual interest to your windows and interior décor. Cotton is the most popular color and blends perfectly with white trim.