Plantation shutters are a great choice for any home, as they are often easier to match to your furniture pieces than curtains and drapes, and allow you to let in some light and air while still maintaining privacy. They're also good for small spaces since they won't overwhelm the room or get in the way of furniture or foot traffic, as often happens with billowing drapery.
When you're ready to choose plantation shutters for your home, note a few important tips to remember. This will ensure they look good and work well for the space.
1. Material
Wood is very popular for shutters as the material is natural and homey, and if a slat should break, you may be able to replace it with a piece of wood you fabricate and cut on your own. However, note that wood absorbs moisture and will expand and contract with humidity, so it may not be good for kitchens and bathrooms. You may also need to repaint, stain, or seal the wood regularly, so this can mean more maintenance and work over time. Vinyl or PVC shutters can be a more durable choice.
2. Tensioning screw
Over time, the louvers or slats of the shutters may start to droop or sag downward as the tension begins to fail. A high-quality shutter will have a tensioning screw on the side that you can simply give a few twists when the tension starts to fail. Without this screw, you may need to have your shutters disassembled by a professional in order to increase the tension and keep the louvers in place. Look for this tensioning screw when shopping and invest in a brand that offers it so you can keep your shutters looking good for years.
3. Tilt rod
The horizontal slats of the shutters are opened and closed by a tilt rod; this is the vertical piece that you slide up and down to control the slats. Some shutters have the tilt rod in the middle of the panel, which can interfere with the amount of light and air that is allowed into the room when you open the shutters, especially if the shutters are very small. Some styles will have the tilt rod to the side of the shutter panel. This can offer a cleaner look, and not interfere with light and air in the room. Note the position and size of the tilt rod as you shop and choose a style that works for the look you want with your plantation shutters.
