People are continuing to buy shutters in ever-increasing numbers for every window in their home. Trendsetters continually inspire us with their stunning interior designs featuring shutters on their social media and in lifestyle magazines. But with so many choices of shutters, colours, styles and textures it can be very confusing when it comes to purchasing - after all, they are quite pricey. So, are they worth the investment?
Let us introduce you to the world of shutters and explain some of the confusing terms you might come across.
Shutters’ Purpose and Features
Like the majority of other window dressings, shutters are not only great for dressing up your windows, but also have a number of other benefits. In the past, shutters were used for safety and protection purposes however, nowadays, people choose shutters for their aesthetic look and interior advantages.
You will be pleased to know that shutters are the perfect choice for your windows year-round. In autumn and winter, they prevent heat loss and protect your privacy. In spring and summer, movable slats will allow you to control the amount of light and air coming into a room. Shutters allow you to ventilate your room when it’s hot and dark outside, whilst again providing great privacy. Also, shutters help to prevent pesky insects from entering your home.
To keep your room cool at night but also private and secure, you can keep your shutter panels closed but tilt your louvres. This is especially handy for those who have ground-floor windows in their home.
Other advantages of shutters include their durability, classic style and easy maintenance. If cared for correctly shutters can last you a lifetime, and they look great alongside both modern and traditional interiors.
Different Types of Shutters
There are several shutter types available on the market, including, tier-on-tier shutters, shaped shutters, full height shutters, solid shutters, café-style shutters, tracked shutters and
Café Style Shutters
Café Style Shutters cover only the lower half or part of a window, which is perfect for those who love natural light in the room whilst still wanting the privacy feature of shutters. Café style shutters are great for large windows, as a covered lower half of the window will protect you from onlookers whilst the open upper half lets the daylight in.
Both shutters are easy for you to measure and fit with regular DIY tools and skills. Ordering Swift Direct Blinds made-to-measure shutters means shutters will be made especially for your windows and you don’t have to worry about your window being too narrow, wide or large for standard-sized products.
Shutters vs Other Types of Blinds
When it comes to choosing between shutters and blinds, there are a few factors to consider such as price, features and the specific style of the product.
Shutters are more expensive than the majority of other blinds or curtains. However, think of them as a piece of furniture as they will last much longer and they have unique features suitable for every season. Furthermore, shutters provide great privacy, light and air control.
Blinds are less expensive and can be changed easily and more often. We have a huge range of blinds and curtains that may suit your style or needs better than shutters.
Shutters most resemble Venetian style blinds, particularly wooden venetians, which are a cheaper alternative. Both options offer flexibility through the ability to tilt the louvre slats but one contrast is that shutters can have the panels open or closed whereas venetians can be raised and lowered.
Interior design daredevils might be interested in trying a combination of shutters and curtains, which create a chic, modern and cosy look. It serves purely for design purposes because there is no real need to cover shutters with curtains.
Shutters are Suitable for Any Room in Your Home
You can use shutters in absolutely any living space in your home. Whether it’s your bedroom, living room, kitchen or conservatory, you will be able to find the perfect shutter type and colour for you.
We would recommend the use of a specialist measure and fit shutter for unusually shaped, bay and other non-standard windows. Whilst obviously more expensive, these window styles are best left to the experts rather than attempting a risky DIY project.
Our Shutter collection is provided exclusively by our partner, DIY Shutters. We have chosen to partner with DIY Shutters because we believe they provide the best possible products and service. We know that nobody can compete with their quality craftsmanship & excellent value for money.
