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Window Shutters
So, you have plans for improving your home, and you’re sure that Window Shutters are the right choice. Since there are many designs and styles, you’ll want to make sure that you make the best decision.
Exterior shutters are an elegant window treatment that is designed correctly and made to last for years. They do not only look classic and beautiful, but they also give a vast range of benefits.
Wooden shutters provide ventilation and privacy. They are also energy efficient all thanks to the insulating design.
Now that your next window treatments will be shutters, there are several decisions that you have to make. Below are factors to consider before making an order;
1. Shutter Style
Shutter style options are numerous. Deciding on which one to pick can be tricky. Shutters are made in different materials like faux wood, hardwood, aluminum, and composite.
You have to choose a material that will suit every room in your house. For example, if you want to purchase shutters for bathroom or kitchen, the composite would be the best material to choose from. After selecting the perfect material, pick a shutter-style; for instance, paneled, louvered, Bahama or board and batton. For every shutter style, you have to select an excellent framing and divider rails to get perfect results. Framing options include;
- Full shutters: Most people prefer full shutters since they open as one panel similar to windows.
- Café shutters: These shutters cover only half your window. You can view outside at eye level.
- Divider rails: This style is flexible. You can open the upper and bottom shutter louvers separately.
- Double-hung shutters: This style allows you to open the shutters at the bottom and top separately. The styling is unique. You will have maximum control over air and light getting into your room.
You also need to decide on texture and color. The finishes and colors to choose from are endless. Just pick what matches your style and décor theme.
Every style has its advantages and minimal cons. Choose a style that is ideal for your house improvement needs. Spend adequate time viewing the many shutter styles in the market to come across the best for your property.
2. Climate
Climate can profoundly impact wooden exterior shutters. If you have settled in a particular region, you already have an idea of the weather to expect. In this case, you have to pick a material that suits the climate in your area.
For instance, if you live in a humid area, natural wood window shutters would not be the ideal choice. Wood can warp, causing problems when closing and opening the shutters. Wood warping affects the appearance of the shutters too. They will also not perform the intended function accordingly.
Composite wood shutters work well in high humid areas and last for an extended period. Hardwoods, on the other hand, are suitable in a dry climate. Some humidity is, however, needed to prevent the wooden shutters from breaking.
While deciding on the material to use, seek professional advice from your home contractor. They will help you pick the most favorable type of wood for your window shutters to prevent damages in the future.
3. Type Of Window
The exterior shutters you order must work correctly with your installed windows. The worst mistake you can make is purchasing shutters that don’t rhyme with the windows. If you make the wrong decision, the installation will look unpleasant over the windows. A clumsy installation will alter the overall appearance of your house.
Some factors to consider include frame shape, the tilt of your windows, and window trim. Mounting depends on your window. For example, if your windows don’t have decorative molding, an exterior mount for your shutter are a correct choice.
If you are not in the best position to make the right decision, reach out to your contractor. He will help you pick what is ideal depending on your type of window.
4. Framing And Divider Rails
The framing choice depends highly on how you prefer your shutter to hang and your window. There are different shutter frames to choose from. They include;
- Z-Frame
- Direct Mount
- L-Frame
- Deco Frame
Order the right frame for a polished finish.
The divider rail separates the bottom and top louvers. It is the horizontal bar placed on the shutter panel. With the divider rails, you can comfortably move different parts of your shutter separately.
Your shutter style will determine the number of dividers to install. You can have as many divider rails as you wish as long as you achieve the look you want.
5. Mounting
Shutters can either be mounted inside or outside the window opening. Before deciding the right mounting option, first, check whether your window opening has decorative trim.
If you have molding or decorative trim around your window, mount your shutters inside. Interior shutters will be attached to a small shutter frame. This mounting style is known as “L” frame.
If you have not attached any decorative trim on your window, exterior mounting is the best option. This style features built-in molding that result in a finished look. Install The L frame on the outside, and the Z frame goes to the corners of the window openings.
6. Size Of Louvers
Louvers enable you to control the amount of light getting in the room and view. The size of the louvers determines how many louvers your shutter panel needs. Louver sizes include 4 ½ inches, 3 ½ inches, and 2 ½ inches.
Small louvers offer more privacy while the large louvers offer a clear view of the exteriors.
7. Motorization
Before making any orders, you should decide whether you want to operate your outdoor shutters manually or add motorization. Motorized window treatments are very convenient and make your life easier.
Motorized shutters allow you to set timers that open and close the shutters automatically even when you are outdoors. These shutters can be controlled by hand-held remotes, smartphone app, tablet, or wall switches.
Motorized shutters are ideal and safe in homes with children or pets since they are cordless.
Conclusion
There are many decisions that you need to make before purchasing shutters. Remember that you are installing them in your beautiful house. Therefore, you have to make more informed decisions. Never hesitate to seek advice from professionals.
Also Know: What is Windows Hello?
