Handbook to Buy Shutters 5 Simple Steps

By: Mark Anthony

Currently, shutters are created in a number of different materials, with wooden shutters still being the benchmark for quality window coverings. Quality wood shutters are planned to last for the lifetime of the home. Deciding on the material for the shutters is the first step in making things work.

Selecting your shutter style
There are a couple of basic varieties of shutters available. The standard style uses a narrow shutter panel
with 1-1/4" louvers. Traditional shutter louvers are normally wedge shaped, being thicker in the front and narrower on the rear. Plantation type shutters are generally 1-18" thick with larger louvers.

Selecting the shutter finish
Shutters may be stained, painted, or both. Virtually all companies offer numerous paints with stain colors, while some don't. Paint colors will normally incorporate a variety of whites and lights. The stains can help enhance wood grains in several tints and tones, ranging from light natural tones to an almost black pitch. Bear in mind, both synthetic and wood composite shutters can't be stained.

Determine the cost
As a result of their material choices, shutters will come in a variety of costs, with many suppliers calculating the price on the square foot. Prices are calculated determined by the exact window size, shutter, style, finish, and number of panels involved.

Deciding on the unit
Shutter units can use a number of different panel configurations within a window. The number of panels across the shutter is set through the shutter style, traditional or plantation, and the width of the window. The standard style panels are normally narrower than the plantation style and would use additional panels across the window.

Each particular company offers guidelines for the number of panels to be used with a window. If the window is tall enough, it's your decision to think about a double tier, or two tier shutter unit that uses one set of shutters at the top end and one set on the bottom.

Each set of shutters will then open independently on the other. You may as well use a divider rail, that is a horizontal bar that makes a top and bottom louver section within an individual style of panel.

Measure and order
Carefully follow the measuring instructions, then determine the window type and installation provided by the company you've selected. The information should be complete, yet very uncomplicated for you to follow.

The company also needs to offer phone support in the event you have any inquiries.