What to Consider When Choosing Your Shutters
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- Posted date:
- 16-06-2023

Things to Consider:
Light Control
The importance of shutters in managing the amount of sunlight entering your room shouldn't be underestimated. Indeed, the type of shutters you select, such as full-height shutters or café-style shutters, can significantly affect the quantity of light that filters into your space.
One of the most advantageous features of plantation shutters is the inclusion of louvres. These allow you to modify the inflow of sunlight to your liking, making them an excellent option for living room window coverings. By adjusting the louvres, you can create the perfect ambient setting for whatever activity you're engaged in, providing you with a great deal of flexibility.

In contrast, tier shutters operate by having separate shutter panels covering the bottom and top halves of the window. This innovative design provides enhanced light control; you can choose to keep the top panel open whilst maintaining privacy with the bottom panel closed, or vice versa. They are therefore an ideal choice for bedrooms and bathrooms.
Deciding on the right style of shutter involves considering various factors. In particular, you must take into account the direction in which your windows face, and your specific light filtering requirements. So, where natural light is abundant, such as south-facing rooms, you may want to opt for shutters with narrower or adjustable louvres. This will give you a balance between enjoying the light and maintaining a comfortable indoor temperature.

Window Access
When selecting shutters for your home, it's essential to think about how easily you can access the windows. Your choice will significantly hinge on the level of window access you require and the aesthetic complement the shutters bring to your home. Full-height shutters and tier shutters are just two examples of shutter styles that offer varying levels of accessibility to windows.
Full-height shutters provide coverage for the entire window, meaning the entire window can be exposed when the shutter panels are folded back. This type of shutter is not only aesthetically appealing but provides a high degree of sunlight and airflow control, making it ideal for those looking for versatile window treatments.
On the other hand, café style or tier shutters give access to only specific portions of the window. These are particularly advantageous if you desire some degree of privacy while still allowing for ambient light to penetrate.
The lower portion of the window remains covered to maintain privacy, while the upper portion can be opened or adjusted to control light. Large or shaped windows may also considerably sway your decision. These types of windows often offer expansive space and unique frames, which can influence the type and style of shutters you choose.
With larger or unusually shaped windows, you'll want to bear in mind that the shutter panels will need to be manually opened and closed. Hence, it's crucial to consider the room's layout and available space when deciding on shutters for these windows.
Your choice of window shutters should align with your preference for window accessibility and the overall look of your home. Consequently, take the time to assess the various shutter styles available and consider factors such as panel operation, room layout and privacy requirements before making your final choice. By doing so, you'll ensure you choose window shutters that not only enhance your home’s aesthetic appeal but also provide the desired level of window access.
PRIVACY CONTROL
Privacy control is an essential factor to consider when choosing the correct shutters for your home, and there are various options to explore. Full-height shutters, for instance, offer exceptional privacy as they cover your windows entirely when shut, which is particularly ideal for bedrooms and street-facing rooms.
On the other hand, café style shutters, which are typically installed to cover only the lower half of the window, provide less privacy but may be the suitable choice for those seeking to balance between privacy and light exposure. This design allows ample daylight to filter in through the top half of the window while maintaining a degree of privacy in the lower half.

Another noteworthy option is the plantation shutters, renowned for their practicality and aesthetic appeal. The louvres in these shutters can be adjusted to control the view into and out of the room, offering flexibility in their use. You can tweak them as you see fit, depending on the level of privacy and sunlight you desire in your space.
Lastly, tier shutters, also known as tier-on-tier shutters, are a viable option for privacy control and light inflow. This design allows the top panels to remain open while the bottom ones stay closed, letting you enjoy the outside view and natural light while maintaining your privacy on the ground level.

SECURITY
Window shutters serve a multitude of purposes beyond merely providing a decorative aspect to the facade of your home. They play a key role in controlling light and privacy, but perhaps one of the most underappreciated functions is the extra layer of security they provide to your property. When securely installed, shutters offer significant resistance against attempts of forced entries, thereby acting as a robust deterrent to unwanted intrusions.
This is particularly beneficial in neighbourhoods where burglary rates may be high, or in properties that frequently remain unoccupied. In other words, shutters are a simple but effective safeguard that can substantially uplift your home's security.
The degree of security provided by shutters is often influenced by their style and structure. Durable and sturdy materials like hardwood or aluminium offer greater resilience against break-ins compared to softer materials.
Additionally, having locking options further enhances security, providing you with peace of mind, particularly during nighttime or when you are away from home. For an added degree of protection, you can opt for shutters designed with hidden or concealed hinges. These designs make it more difficult for intruders to detach your shutters from the outside. In addition, choosing styles with reinforced panels can make your shutters more resistant to impact and force, thus heightening their security efficacy.
Shutters are a beneficial addition to any home, providing light control, privacy, and importantly, a solid defence against potential intrusions. It's worth investing in high-quality shutters as they offer a seamless blend of function and style, proving to be a worthwhile long-term investment for your home. With the right choice, you can effectively accentuate the aesthetic value of your home, while concurrently securing it from threats.
INTERIOR DESIGN
Choosing the right shutters can really make a significant difference in the look and feel of your room. It's more than just selecting a functional piece, it's an integral part of your interior design. The shutters should match or complement the décor in your room.
While going for a matching colour scheme could create a seamless, harmonious feel, choosing a contrasting colour for your shutters can make them a standout feature, adding a visual appeal that can transform your room completely. Consider the current window dressings in your room. Perhaps you have curtains or blinds already in place. The design, colour, and style of these window dressings can guide your decision for the appropriate shutters.

It's essential to carefully consider the interplay between these different elements to achieve a balanced and pleasing aesthetic look. In terms of style, one has several options. For a timeless, elegant look, one might opt for the classic plantation shutters. They are a particularly good fit for traditional, cottage, or country-style interiors. However, if your room has a more modern feel, you might want to consider full-height shutters. These are sleek and streamlined, providing a clean, contemporary look that works perfectly in modern interiors.
On the other hand, for those who wish to add a touch of nostalgia or a retro feel to their room, café style shutters could be an excellent choice. These types of shutters cover just the lower half of the window, creating a charming, vintage look reminiscent of quaint cafes and romantic Parisian streets.
Equally important is the choice of materials and colours for your shutters. These should ideally work well with the overall design theme of your room. Whether you prefer solid wood shutters for a natural, rustic look or stylish faux wood shutters for a more polished, sophisticated feel, we have you covered.
Are you planning to add shutters to your windows in Gwent, Newport, Cardiff or the surrounding areas? If you want more help in deciding if a shutter is right for your room, we can help. Follow the link below to find out more about our made to measure shutters.