How To Buy Window Shutters

Today you will find window shutters made of a variety of different materials. The wooden window shutters are the benchmark for quality window coverings. Quality wood window shutters are designed to last the lifetime of your home. Deciding what material you want your shutters made of is the first step in getting things started.

Selecting your window shutter style

There are two basic styles of window shutters for you to consider. The traditional style uses a narrow shutter panel with 1-1/4″ louvers. Traditional shutter louvers are normally wedge shaped, being thicker in the front and narrower in the rear. Plantation type shutters are generally 1-18″ thick with larger louvers.

Selecting the window shutter finish

Window shutters can be stained, painted, or both. Almost all companies offer a number of paints with stain colors. You can also buy bare wood window shutters that you paint and stain them yourself. Paint colors will generally include a variety of whites and lights. Stains enhance wood grains and are available in a number of tints and tones. You can find a stain starting from the light natural tones to an almost black pitch. Keep in mind, both synthetic and wood composite window shutters can be stained.

Determine the price

Based on what materials the window shutters are made of, you will find a wide range of prices. Most suppliers calculate the price of the shutter on the square foot. Prices are calculated based on the exact window size, shutter, style, finish, and number of panels required.

Deciding on the unit

Shutter units can use a number of different panel configurations within a window. The shutter style will determine the number of panels across the shutter, additional factors include traditonal or plantation style and the width of the window. Tranditional style panels are narrower than the plantation style and would use less panels across the window.

Each company offers guidelines to determine the number of panels required for each window. If the window is tall enough, you may want to consider a double tier, or two tier window shutter unit that uses one set of shutters at the top and one set at the bottom. Each set of shutters will then open independently on the other. You can also use a divider rail, which is a horizontal bar that creates a top and bottom louver section within a single style of panel.

Measure and order Carefully

Follow the measuring instructions provided by the company. If the company providers technicians to measure your windows, I would highly recommend you take advantage of this service.  Measuring the windows is the most important step.  Next, determine the window type and installation provided by the company you have selected. The company should provide detailed directions for the shutter installlation and they should be easy for you to follow. In addition, you will want the company you select to offer phone assistance should you have any questions. Enjoy your new window shutters. To obtain more information on shutters, blinds and curtain go to http://www.buy-blackout-curtains-drapes.com/