Window Shutters are a beautiful, unique addition to any home. They can add character and charm while also providing many benefits such as enhancing security, light control, and energy efficiency. However, it is important to understand how shutters work and what their purpose is before making a decision to have them installed in your home.
There are several styles of Window Shutters available that fit a wide range of design aesthetics from traditional to contemporary. The choice of materials and finishes can also be customized to meet specific needs such as moisture resistance or UV protection. Adding shutters to your home can dramatically enhance its value and increase its curb appeal, making it a great investment.
Traditionally, wood window shutters were a standard feature in homes across the country and were a key part of the architecture that set houses apart. While many homeowners today prefer the look of window blinds, shutters are still a popular choice for anyone looking to make a statement with their home’s décor. Shutters are durable, easy to clean and maintain, and will last a lifetime.
The most common type of shutters used in the United States are wood or composite and are a stylish and cost-effective alternative to blinds and shades. Basswood is the most commonly used material for interior and exterior window shutters because it is lightweight, flexible, and can be stained or painted to match any color scheme. For more durable shutters that will stand up to the elements, choose a composite or aluminum product.
Another option for window shutters is to opt for the “cafe-type” that consists of separate louvered sections and can be opened independently from one another or closed completely. Cafe-type shutters allow for more light and air to enter a room while still maintaining privacy and a sense of structure. They can also be hung on divider rails that are either fixed or adjustable in order to align with mullions or exact placement of the window.
Aside from their visual appeal, window shutters provide a number of functional advantages that cannot be matched by other types of windows treatments. Shutters limit visibility of the outdoors, which can help to deter thieves from attempting to gain access to your home and they also reduce sound levels. Emerald can also help you to achieve even more functionality with your window shutters by installing a variety of options including hinges to keep the slats open or closed, handles for opening and closing the shutters, shutter dogs to hold them in place when they are open and closed, and blackout curtains that can be placed behind the shutters for additional light control.
Whether you decide to install indoor or outdoor shutters, the next step is to determine which mounting style works best for you and your lifestyle. Inside-mount shutters are mounted inside of your window frame, while outside-mount shutters are fitted to the wall to frame the window and offer a more decorative look. For windows that have decorative trim or that aren’t perfectly square, a built-in “L” or “Z” frame shutter can hide these flaws and add stunning dimension to your home.