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Window shutters are timeless, stylish and practical window dressings. If you are thinking about investing in window shutters for your home, you likely have a few questions. Such as “how do window shutters work?”.
In this blog, we are going to answer some frequently asked questions and give you plenty of information so you can choose the very best window dressing for your home.
Opening And Closing Window Shutters
Window shutters are wooden panels that attach to your window frame, offering light and privacy control, flexibility and a touch of sophistication.
Other than Solid Panel Shutters, all window shutters have louvres, which can easily be tilted to control the amount of light that comes in. Tilting the louvres can also assist with privacy, which is particularly useful if you live on a busy street or if your home is overlooked by neighbours. The louvres can also be shut to block out all light and ensure complete privacy.
Various louvre sizes are available, depending on your window size and personal preference. Thanks to the louvres, most people tend to keep the wooden panels closed. However, there are occasions when you may want to fully open the wooden shutter panels, such as when you want to admire the view, clean your windows or flood the room with natural light.
Tier on Tier Shutters have two panels at the top and two at the bottom, which can be opened independently from each other. Many people with tier on tier shutters like to keep the bottom panels closed to ensure privacy, whilst opening the top wooden panels to let the light in.
Cafe style Shutters on the other hand, only cover the bottom half of the window. So, most people keep the wooden panels closed for the full effect but adjust the louvres as and when required.
For Shaped Shutters that are perfectly fitted to the window, opening the panel itself isn’t always an option. For example, Shaped Shutters are often used for skylight windows. However, the louvres still allow you to control light and privacy.
How Are Window Shutters Installed?
Shutters can be installed inside the recess (close to or directly on the window frame), on the edge of the recess (so there is a gap between the window frame and shutter) or outside of the recess (on the walls surrounding the window).
It is always best to have window shutters professionally installed. The majority of shutter companies only offer shutters with installation. With the knowledge and tools, it is possible to install your own shutters. However, if you want the best results, you should have the shutter suppliers do the installation.
For larger windows, you may even need two people to install the shutters. If you are having Shaped Shutters or Tracked Shutters, which are a little trickier to install, it is always best to have them installed for you.
How Do I Measure For Window Shutters?
Window shutters are made to measure. They perfectly fit your window, regardless of size and shape. Due to this, measuring for your shutters should be done by a professional, especially if you have Bay windows or shaped windows. Most shutter companies will offer to measure your window and advise you on the best shutters for your home before you make a decision.
Which Window Shutters Are Right For My Home?
There is a variety of window shutter styles to choose from. And once you have chosen your preferred style, you then have the choice of several finishes and colours.
Choosing your perfect shutters depends on many factors, including the size and shape of your windows, the style of your home, the level of light and privacy control required and your personal tastes.
Full Height Shutters, for example, are ideal for the majority of window sizes. They are the most popular style of window shutters thanks to their versatility and timeless style. They complement any home and are practical enough for any room in the house.
Tier on Tier Shutters, although very similar to Full Height Shutters, work best on tall windows. And are great if you want even more flexibility. Whereas Tracked Shutters are more suitable for patio doors, French doors and conservatory doors. They can also be used as room dividers!
Waterproof Shutters are best for (you guessed it!) bathrooms and kitchens. Or any room that is high in humidity or moisture. And Café Style shutters are popular in kitchens, dining rooms and living rooms. These chic shutters look amazing but don’t give as much privacy.
To explore the full range of window shutters, check out our Quick Guide To Shutters.
Get In Touch
If you have any more questions about window shutters, you are likely to find the answers in our blog. Alternatively, if you are in the Essex, London or Kent areas and you are looking for high-quality window shutters for your home or commercial property, get in touch with Shuttertec.
You can contact us on 0800 023 5754 or email info@shuttertec.uk. We are on the other end of the phone 6 days a week!
Or you can book an appointment here. We can discuss your shutter needs, measure your space, show you samples and answer any questions you may have. At Shuttertec, we have more than 20 years with bespoke plantation shutters and blinds.
We would love to hear from you.