Plantation shutters are a fantastic choice for those wanting to add a touch of opulence to their home. They’re sophisticated, secure and private, but they also come with a lot of choices, which can cause confusion.
There is no one size fits all option when it comes to choosing shutter blinds. Instead, understanding the different benefits of the various styles will help you make the right decision for your space. Here’s our guide to the five most popular options of shutters to help you choose.
Shaped windows
The versatility of our shutters means that we are able to offer a bespoke service to suit any shape or size window that you may have. We can tailor our products to fit circular topped windows, archways, angular, roof, triangular and even small porthole windows. The options really are endless.
Shaped shutter windows can be a striking addition to your room as they can be used to emphasise distinctive characteristics and architectural features. So rather than being put off by tricky shaped spaces, consider how you can turn them into focal points instead.
Even if you thought you’d never be able to find a shutter to suit your space, at Staffordshire Shutters, we will find a solution with our made to measure plantation shutters. Please get in touch if you’d like to arrange a socially distanced consultation or an appointment to visit our showroom to find out more about how we can transform your space.
Gliding track shutters
Gliding track shutters
Gliding track shutters (sometimes called sliding shutters) are best suited to larger spaces such as large windows and French or bi-fold doors. As their name suggests, they are fitted discreetly to the top and bottom tracks, allowing the shutter to be slid back and folded away.
This is a very stylish shutter blind that can be a dramatic feature in its own right when used as a room partition or divide. They are also incredibly practical as they mean that the opening function of your current windows or doors is not hindered by the blind.
Gliding track shutters are available in two options. You can either opt for the more popular bi-folding variety, which allows you to effortlessly store them away in a concertina fashion, or you could opt for the more unique bi-pass option where, when opened, the shutters sit in two parts on top of each other.
Tier on tier shutters
Tier on tier shutters consist of two panels (lower and upper) that sit one above the other. They are usually equal in size but you can choose to have one larger than the other if you wish. Opting for tier on tier shutters gives you the ability to open up each section individually to maintain some privacy but let in air and light. You also have the option of opening or closing them together if you wish.
Tier on tier shutters can be tailor-made to suit more usual shaped windows and work particularly well with bay windows because they complement the features of the bay by separating each window with an individually fitted shutter panel.
They are an elegant choice which works well in rooms that are overlooked by neighbours as you can maintain some privacy by keeping the lower section closed. But by having the top section open, it still allows you to let in air on sunny days, giving you the best of both worlds.
Café style shutters
Café shutters cover only the bottom section of the window panel while the top section remains open. These are the perfect shutter blinds for people who love natural light and want to maximise it in their home while still maintaining their privacy.
They are great options for front-facing downstairs windows that may have a pavement running past as they will shield you from onlookers. Café shutters are also ideal for a downstairs bathroom or bedroom where privacy is paramount.
Aside from the practical benefits, café shutters have a quaint, old-world charm that will add character to any room in your home. They work particularly well in cottages or alongside rustic kitchen designs.
Full height shutters
Full height shutters are the most common type of plantation shutter. They fit the full height of the window or door that they are installed to, giving you total control over the light. This traditional option has a control mechanism fitted to each panel so you can easily adjust the level of light in the room to suit the time of day.
Full height shutters are a great option for people who live in busy areas as they allow for maximum privacy and block out unwanted road noise. Their simple panel construction also makes them the ideal choice for anyone looking to achieve a timeless and classic feel. Shutter materials
Shutter materials
Once you’ve chosen the perfect style of shutter, you’re also going to want to consider the most suitable material for your space.
Faux wood PVC shutters (such as our Hampton and Nevada ranges) are moisture-resistant, which makes them the best option for bathrooms, kitchens and other areas of the home where they could be exposed to water.
Or you could opt for cost-effective but no less stylish MDF plantation shutters (such as our Antigua option). The durability of MDF means that it can withstand day to day knocks and bumps and it’s also easy to clean, so is ideal for those with children. It’s worth bearing in mind, however, that MDF doesn’t work well for larger windows or spaces but is perfect for small to medium installations.
Hardwood (such as our Fiji range) is a better option for those wanting a customised fit for their space. Our own Fiji option is light and versatile, lending itself to track stutters on patio doors or built-in wardrobes. It also adapts well to the more complex framework that you might find on bay windows and in conservatories.
Do not hesitate to contact one of our dedicated team members here at Staffordshire Shutters so we can help you find the perfect fit for your space.
We are offering virtual appointments from the comfort of your own home, socially distanced home visits or appointments at our Eccleshall Studio where you can browse our full range of materials.
Simply give us a call on 01785 859222.