The Cons of Plantation Shutters: What to Know Before You Buy
Plantation shutters are often hailed as a stylish and versatile window treatment, but are they really all they’re cracked up to be? While their popularity has surged in recent years, thanks to their clean lines and classic look, it’s worth considering some of the drawbacks before you decide to deck out your windows with these seemingly perfect shutters. Let’s dive into the cons of shutters to help you make an informed choice.
They Can Be Pricey
One of the first things that might give you pause when considering window shutters is the cost. Unlike more affordable options like blinds or curtains, plantation shutters can come with a hefty price tag. Custom-made window shutters, in particular, can set you back a fair bit, especially if you have larger or oddly shaped windows. While they do add value to your home, the initial investment might be more than you’re willing to spend, especially if you’re outfitting multiple windows. A typical 4 bedroom house could start from £3000.00 – which can see high. But when you take into the longevity of the product, we think that’s reasonable!
Installation Isn’t a DIY Dream
If you’re a fan of DIY projects, you might be in for a disappointment. Plantation shutters often require professional installation, which adds to the overall cost. Unlike curtains that you can easily hang up yourself, installing plantation shutters involves precise measurements and a bit of handiwork to ensure they fit perfectly and function smoothly. If they’re not installed correctly, you could end up with shutters that don’t open or close properly, leading to frustration and additional costs for adjustments. Competent DIY’ers could quite possibly handle a standard square window, but bay windows shutters often present more of a challenge and to obtain the level of finish required, we would always recommend professional installation.
Limited Flexibility in Light Control
While plantation shutters offer great control over light and privacy, they do have their limitations. The slats (also known as louvers) can be tilted to let in light or block it out, but they don’t offer the same versatility as blinds or curtains. For example, if you want to let in natural light while still maintaining privacy, you might struggle to find the perfect angle. In contrast, with blinds or curtains, you can easily pull them up or down, or adjust them to your exact preference.
Cleaning Can Be a Chore
Let’s be honest—no one enjoys cleaning window shutters, the task can be particularly tedious. The slats collect dust easily, and because they’re stationary, you can’t simply throw them in the washing machine like you would with curtains. Each slat needs to be dusted individually, which can be time-consuming, especially if you have several windows and a dark colour where dust and dirt will show more. If you’re someone who dreads household chores, the upkeep required for plantation shutters might be a significant drawback.
They’re Not Blackout
People quite often assume that they are blackout shutters. They aren’t, they are good at blacking out light, but direct sunlight will allow bright light to seep through. This is because many moving parts cannot touch. We do always highlight this to potential clients and quite often suggest that if they need a darker bedroom – perhaps for a nursery, or shift workers who sleep daytimes – then adding a blackout blind behind the shutter will give you the darkness you need. But obviously, this comes at an additional cost – which again, can rack up.
Potential Resale Issues
While plantation shutters are often seen as an upgrade, they’re not everyone’s cup of tea. If you plan on selling your home in the near future, potential buyers might not share your enthusiasm for window shutters. Some might prefer the flexibility of blinds or the softness of curtains, and removing plantation shutters can be a hassle. If you’re thinking about resale value, it’s worth considering whether plantation shutters will appeal to the broadest range of buyers.
Conclusion
While plantation shutters have their charm, they’re not without their downsides. From the initial cost and installation to cleaning and potential resale issues, there’s a lot to consider before you decide to go all-in on this popular window treatment. If you’re looking for a window solution that’s flexible, easy to maintain, and doesn’t break the bank, you might want to explore other options before settling on plantation shutters.
Remember, the best window shutters are the ones that suit both your style and your practical needs. So, weigh the pros and cons carefully, and make sure you choose the right option for your home.
P.S. We still love them.
