Plantation shutters are built-in window treatments consisting of a row of movable louvers attached to a frame. They can be made of hardwood, faux wood or vinyl. Such shutters used to be very popular some time ago, but they are somehow forgotten these days, with all modern roller blinds and sheer curtains that are very easy to install, to maintain and to change when redecorating.
How Plantation Shutters Work
However, not all modern people are really "modern", so there are enough individuals who seek to decorate their homes in classical style. For them, plantation shutters are as elegant as can be. Besides, such window treatments offer several advantages such as very good insulation, privacy, control of light and of ventilation. The negative side is that plantation shutters aren't made to be folded up against the wall frequently, they are designed to fit in an opening, in a fixed position, except from the situations when they need to be cleaned, case in which they can be removed. Moving them every day will result in early deterioration, so if you're a "light-lover" type of person, you'd better consider other types of window treatments for your home. The flexibility of plantation shutters can be secured by using divider rails, which allow independent movement of the louvers above the divider from the ones below. That's an useful feature in case you want privacy, but still need to let some fresh air inside your room. Nonetheless, keep in mind that if you have arched windows, you may need to use curved shutters, which could result in the upper louvers not being able to pivot anymore.
Plantation Shutters Hardware
Perhaps the most beautiful detail of plantation shutters are the hardware hinges. Here you can let your imagination and creativity flow, as a wide array of finishes and materials are available, from antique brass to bright brass, brushed aluminum, wrought iron or powder coated metal. Hinges can be inside-mount, Z-mold or outside-mount. Mortised or non-mortised, hinges offer that classic touch we often see in old movies. Some companies offer a tenon joint and louver lock mechanism that prevents the shutter elements from sagging.
Although most plantation shutters have the tilt bar that controls the louvers movement placed in the center, it is possible to have it on either to the left or to the right edge, for a special effect on the eye. This is a personal choice, and probably the shop assistant will be able to show you some samples so you can decide by yourself what's the best style for your home.
Plantation Shutter Prices
In terms of prices, nobody can say plantation shutters are cheap or expensive. It's all in the quality of the materials used. If you want the finest wood selection, such as yellow poplar or elm, or if you long for the most durable and exquisite hinges, you may pay more than another customer who's perfectly happy with those vinyl or faux wood shutters which are so durable and so easy to clean. If you are interested in redecorating your home and you're considering plantation shutters as an option, take some time for a thorough research and ask for several quotes before buying. Don't forget to check on discount coupons from Home Depot or from other home and garden stores.
