Interior Shutters
The wood accents and features in our homes provide a gorgeous means of accent, function, and beauty. One highlight made from wood which we install in our homes is interior shutters. Custom interior shutters provide tasteful elegance in any situation.
Interior shutters provide excellent control for the amount of light, air, and noise which is allowed in a home. These functions are essential to home comfort. One of the most remarkable features of shutters is they provide the utmost in ambiance. But, a homeowner doesn’t always know what is available in shutters and the advantages of various styles and materials. So, today we’re going to talk about some of the things a homeowner should know when considering shutters. The features shutters offer are unique in the amount of control a homeowner can have.
Materials
Bifold shutters can control light with minimal spacing needs. Photo:Stanfield Shutters
Shutters can be made from wood, engineered wood, laminate, metal, and PVC. Each type of material has benefits and drawbacks. For example, wood shutters can be painted or stained. But, some shutters, such as those made from engineered wood, can’t be stained, only painted.
Types of shutters
There are a vast number of shutter type and arrangements, some common, others highly unusual. The type of shutter will determine how much, if any, light, air, and noise is allowed into the room from the window. Here are the differences between some of the basic types.
Plantation: wide, elliptical louvers are the trademark of plantation shutters, which offer the advantages of control. They have a full range of motion.
Colonial: shorter, narrower louvers, which also have a full range of movement.
Hybrid: half solid half louvered
Cafe: Bottom shutter top open
Solid shaker: solid wood. No louvers.
Tier on tier: two sets of shutters. Usually louvered.
Shutter shapes
In addition to types of shutters, the shape of the shutters influences their function. Shutters can be exotic, custom-made shapes to match any window or even doors. Here are some of the more common elements:
Fold or no fold: A vertical shutter, can either be stationary or have a single hinge with which it can be opened away from the window.
Bifold (two panels): two panels with a hinge between them is considered a bifold design. This is common in areas where the wall space for the open shutter is limited. Or, maybe the homeowner just likes the look.
Trifold: tri-fold shutters are one of the most compact ways to open shutters. They’re also handy in situations like corners, where the room design impacts the shutter shape.
Shutters are available for any window shape. Photo: Stanfield Shutters
French doors and french door shutters can be installed in places like atrium windows. Some designers enjoy using french shutters as an alternative to an open doorway, for example for a living room or den which feeds off the entryway.
Regardless of the type of shutters you choose, or your decor plans for existing shutters, these appealing decor elements will provide many years of function and joy.
The Wood Doctor is the leader in wood restoration, refinishing and refacing in the Portland area. Call 503-560-5220 for a project consultation.