Looking for a way to improve the look and value of your home? Consider adding plantation shutters. A form of window treatment dating back to 18th and 19th century plantation homes in the Caribbean and the southern United States, these types of window shutters are seeing a resurgence, showing up in many contemporary homes.
Plantation shutters are as versatile as traditional blinds or shades, while adding a touch of elegance to the space. They feel right at home in both vintage-inspired and modern decorations, and they come in all shapes and sizes. They can even be incorporated into round, arched or other shaped windows for a truly custom look. But the attractive appearance of these wooden shutters is only the beginning of their appeal. They are also:
Low consumption
During the days when plantations were created, before window glass was common, plantation shutters were all that protected the occupants of a home from the elements. People opened the shutters to let in fresh air or a cool breeze, and closed them tightly against the heat of summer, the cold of winter, or a severe storm. Similarly, before the electricity worked, they effectively controlled the amount of sunlight entering the interior space.
In today's climate-controlled era, plantation shutters can have the same effects. Because they are integrated into the window frame and you can completely close the louvers, they are effective in preventing heat transfer between inside and outside. You can use them to control the light, allowing sunlight to enter only through the louvers or by fully opening the shutters. These attributes combined can mean that your lighting, as well as your heating and air conditioning systems, won't have to work as hard, resulting in lower bills.
A good long-term investment
Installing plantation shutters is different than simply hanging vertical blinds or curtains. Plantation shutters are built in instead of hanging from a bar or slide bar. They are usually made of wood or a substitute for wood, which makes them a robust element in the design of the room. Once installed, they are both a part of the structure of the house and a decorative element.
What does all this mean in terms of investment? First of all, plantation shutters are timeless and versatile. You can redecorate the room countless times, even drastically, without changing the blinds. At most, you may need a new paint job or a new coat of stain to make them look their best.
Interior shutters are also popular with potential buyers. They can increase the value of your home more than any other window treatment option, including specialty window treatments like Roman shades. The value increases even more if you install shutters made of high-quality materials. If you decide to sell your home in the future, you will be grateful for choosing plantation shutters.
If you're interested in window treatments that look attractive now and that will stand the test of time in both style and durability, you can't beat Plantation Shutters. Plus, the resulting savings on your energy bill can make the initial setup cost worth it. The next time you're tempted to buy another pair of new curtains, talk to someone at your local home improvement store or blind retailer about plantation shutters.