Plantation Shutters vs. Traditional Shutters: Which One Should You Choose?

4 Aug 2023 | All Blogs, Indoor Spaces, Outdoor Spaces

At Macarthur Home Improvements, we understand that choosing the right window shutters for your home can be a daunting task. With so many options available in the market, it can be challenging to determine which style will best suit your needs. In this article, we will compare two popular types of window shutters: Plantation Shutters and Traditional Shutters. We will discuss their differences, benefits, and drawbacks to help you make an informed decision.

What are Plantation Shutters?

Plantation shutters are modern-style shutters with wide louvres or slats that are typically 2.5 inches or wider. They are versatile and can be installed in various window types, including sliding doors, French doors, and arched windows. They are available in different materials, including wood, faux wood, and vinyl, and come in a range of colours to match your home decor.

Benefits of Plantation Shutters

Plantation shutters have numerous benefits, including:

Light Control: The wide louvres allow you to control the amount of light entering your home. You can adjust the slats to let in as much or as little light as you desire, making them an excellent choice for bedrooms, living rooms, and other areas of your home where light control is crucial.

Energy Efficiency: Plantation shutters can help to reduce your energy bills by keeping your home cool in summer and warm in winter. They provide insulation by preventing heat from escaping in winter and blocking out the sun’s heat in summer.

Privacy: The louvres of plantation shutters can be adjusted to provide complete privacy, making them an excellent choice for bedrooms and bathrooms.

Durability: Plantation shutters are durable and long-lasting. They are made from high-quality materials, ensuring that they can withstand the elements and last for many years.

Drawbacks of Plantation Shutters

Plantation shutters have some drawbacks, including:

Cost: Plantation shutters can be more expensive than other types of window coverings, such as blinds and shades.

Installation: Installation of plantation shutters can be complex and requires professional installation

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What are Traditional Shutters?

Traditional shutters are a classic-style shutter with narrow slats that are typically 1.25 inches wide. They are usually made of wood and are available in a range of colours and stains to match your home decor.

Benefits of Traditional Shutters

Traditional shutters have several benefits, including:

Aesthetics: Traditional shutters add a classic and timeless look to your home decor. They are ideal for traditional-style homes and can enhance your home’s curb appeal.

Customisation: Traditional shutters can be customised to fit any window size and shape, making them a great option for unique and irregular window shapes.

Insulation: Traditional shutters provide insulation by preventing heat from escaping in winter and blocking out the sun’s heat in summer.

Privacy: Traditional shutters offer complete privacy when closed, making them ideal for bedrooms and bathrooms.

Drawbacks of Traditional Shutters

Traditional shutters have some drawbacks, including:

Limited Light Control: The narrow slats of traditional shutters limit the amount of light entering your home, making them unsuitable for areas where light control is crucial.

Maintenance: Traditional shutters require regular maintenance, including sanding, staining, and repainting, to keep them looking their best.

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Which One Should You Choose?

When deciding between plantation shutters and traditional shutters, it ultimately comes down to your personal preference and needs. If you value light control, energy efficiency, and durability, then plantation shutters may be the better choice. However, if you are looking for a classic and timeless look that adds to your home’s aesthetics and enhances its curb appeal, traditional shutters may be the better option.

It’s important to keep in mind that both plantation shutters and traditional shutters have their pros and cons, and your decision should be based on your specific needs and preferences. Regardless of which type of shutters you choose, make sure to have them professionally installed to ensure proper fit and functionality.

A Personal Decision

The decision to choose between plantation shutters and traditional shutters is a personal one. We hope this article has provided you with valuable insights into the benefits and drawbacks of both types of shutters to help you make an informed decision. If you have any further questions or would like to discuss your options, feel free to contact us at Macarthur Home Improvements. We would be happy to help you choose the right window shutters for your home.

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