There are many factors to consider when deciding which design of shutter would best complement one’s home. The most important being the style of your house. The architecture of your home and windows should dictate the design of shutter you choose. For example, if you have a Victorian House, an adjustable louvre shutter with or without a midrail may best suit a long rectangular window.
In fact, the size and shape of your window, and the space around it, will definitely dictate the design of shutter that one chooses. Plantation Shutters® add the illusion of space with their clean lines, and will be well suited to small windows. Oversized shutters that over-lap above and below windows or doors can also be installed to create the illusion of a larger opening.
Next the colour and finish should be taken into account. The colour palette used in the rooms, and which colour of shutter would best complement the décor of one’s home should be considered. Do you want your shutters to be the main focus of the room or should they subtly enhance an already vibrant space? Plantation Shutters® offers a wide range of timber and aluminium shutters in a variety of colours from the classic white finishes to rich timber stains. There is a style to suit any décor palette.
Once you have chosen the aesthetics of your shutters, one should consider what you would like to achieve from a practical point of view. Is thermal protection a concern? Would you like your shutters to provide insulation in winter and cooling in summer? Shutters are easily adjusted to manipulate air flow allowing for eco-friendly and easily controlled heating or cooling.
Do shutters need to provide privacy from windows overlooking passing traffic, or do they need to act as a room divider in the interior, such as an entrance to a bathroom? Shutters are excellent at forming a barrier where privacy is required. If sound is an issue, Plantation Timber Shutters are an excellent insulator.
If one needs to block out light to sleep, or perhaps one has a media or work room where computer or TV screens need to be clearly seen, then it’s important to consider that shutters can be adjusted to allow just the right amount of light. This is also key in protecting furniture and valuable paintings that might fade from harsh direct sunlight.
When it comes to any door or window opening, security is often a big factor, especially if living in South Africa. Plantation Shutters® offers a range of security shutters in 100% recyclable and locally-sourced aluminium. These shutters include a thick frame and an advanced locking system and guarantee one peace of mind.
Finally, and most importantly, budget must be taken into account. How much can one afford to invest on window and door fittings? Installing Plantation Shutters® is well worth the investment, as their offering includes a 5 year guarantee on the timber shutters, and 12 years on the aluminium security shutters. They have also recently reduced their lead time to 21 working days to install security shutters (the same lead time as the timber shutters).