Window Shutter FAQ

Here’s some answers to those frequently asked questions.

What do you mean by ‘solid window shutters’?
Solid window shutters are the type that have NO louvres. This means they have a solid panel in place of the louvres. We currently don’t supply this type of shutter.

Why are they called ‘plantation shutters’?
The name plantation shutters originated some time ago in the West Indies and Americas. Originally the style of shutters which were installed on the exterior of properties, in recent years the design has been incorporated into interior furnishings.

How much do plantation shutters cost?
This varies depending on the style, finish and number of windows. To get an accurate costing we recommend booking a free survey with us so we can run you through the options in detail.

Do you offer survey and fitting services?
Yes, we offer the full service from handling the initial enquiry and visiting your home, through to the installation process by our highly skilled and professional shutter fitters.

Can I measure the windows myself?
The measurement process for a single square window is relatively simple. But, when you get to the angles incorporated into a typical bay window, this requires our highly skilled surveyors. In order to get an initial cost, you can measure your windows (in total) and once we know if you have features like UPVC or special angled bay posts, we’ll be able to give you an accurate supply and fit price for your window shutters. Fill in the call back form and we’ll call you within the hour, or use our quick quote system to get an estimated price via email.

Can I/we fit the shutters ourselves?
Unless you have expert DIY skills, we wouldn’t recommend attempting to fit your shutters yourself. Some shutters are fairly easy to fit, such as a square single/dual panel configuration that have no angles. But, even then, your window is likely to be out of alignment and will require skills to fix correctly.

We’re also unable to offer our 10-year warranty with DIY fittings, as we can’t accept liability for problems that may occur during this process. We always include our fitting fee in the prices we quote and recommend letting our skilled professionals get the perfect finish for you.

Can you fit shutters to any window?
Yes, we can fit shutters to all window types. If you look at our Gallery, you’ll see we have fitted shutters to all shapes, sizes and styles. As well as windows we fit shutters to doors, including top-tracking systems and even full circles. Again, this is an area where our specialist surveyor will see points that you may miss, such as how the windows open and clearances for panels etc. We can even fit to the front of secondary glazing units.

Do I need to check for anything before having my survey?
In the majority of cases, there’s no need to do anything on your side. If you’re planning to have your windows refurbished, we’d prefer to wait until this has been completed, particularly in bath or wet-rooms, where tiling will affect the width or height. Simple re-decorating or re-painting isn’t a problem.

My window isn’t completely square, is this a problem?
No, we’re able to make adjustments in our survey to allow for the alignment of windows. This means that when we fit your shutters they’ll be perfectly square. Any gapping as a result of the mis-alignment will be filled using trade caulk that’s colour-matched and invisible.

Are there a pre-determined number of panels needed for my windows?
The number of panels will be determined by a. what your preferences are for light and privacy and b. any limitations we have. There are certain rules we have to stick to, such as the maximum panel width, but this is determined on-site and we’ll do our very best to match your existing window configuration and maintain an aesthetic balance.

Is there a maximum and minimum width for my shutters?
This is something we’ll discuss with you on site. It depends on the material you’re choosing for your window shutters; for example, using an MDF product will mean that we’re restricted to panels around 700mm. So, if you have a five-part bow-bay for instance, then five single panels will look a lot better than double panels that make the window look very ‘busy’ and restrictive. Our surveyor will take you through this process and help determine what works best for your windows.

What is the delivery time?
Once we’ve processed your order, your shutters will take around 12 to 14 weeks to arrive. Our delivery program fluctuates depending on the time of year – during the winter months we allow for the full shipment time due to weather conditions in and out of port. We’ll work our socks off to get your shutters delivered by the deadlines we’ve agreed.

Do you take credit card payments?
We’re fully compliant with Barclays Merchant Services and can take payment via a number of methods, including all major credit cards (including AMEX). This is a safe and secure payment, as is our online payment system. Alternatively you can pay by cheque or directly over your bank counter. The choice is yours.

Is the price more expensive than curtains?
Many customers are shocked by the price comparison of shutters versus high-end tailored curtains. In many cases the shutters are cheaper. Additionally, the maintenance and features of shutters far outweighs the value of curtains, which collect dust and only offer privacy at night. Window shutters enhance the visual impact of your property too. In some cases, customers choose to have cafe style shutters with curtains at night. This maintains privacy and security at all times.

Do shutters block out noise and cold?
Full-height window shutters will reduce noise to a certain degree. It’s also proven that shutters help keep warmth in the room during the winter months, especially for single-glazed windows. We can’t claim that shutters are as effective as double or triple glazing but an added layer of insulation is better than none!

How many louvre choices do I have?
We have three louvre sizes that are most popular in the ranges:

  • 47mm louvre: popular in cottages or small windows. Unfortunately this size is not available with our hidden tilt-rod system due to the area needed inside the panel stiles.
  • 63mm louvre: can be seen in many of the Gallery images. Ideal for mid-size windows.
  • 89mm louver: a larger louver works best in large, high openings. Take a look at our Gallery pages to get a clearer picture.

Do you use sustainable materials?
Yes. Our cedar wood shutters are made from a Western Red Cedar sourced from cedar wood associations in Canada.

The Memphis shutter uses laminated construction techniques and other techniques to make it very light. This timber is sourced mainly from China, where the sub-tropic tree grows to maturity in around fifteen years.

The Lancaster shutter is made from a coated MDF with a timber core.. We use a complete polymer coating, which is a safe product.

Will my shutters warp or fade?
In one word, no! Our shutters come with a 10-year no quibble parts and labour warranty. If there are any defects found during the fitting of your shutters, we’ll replace the panel/frame free of charge and won’t collect your balance payment until the replacement panel is fitted. This is very rare, but our shutter fitters are perfectionists and this is part of our procedure.

What colours can I choose for my shutters?
Across our shutter range, we have four standard white options, a wide range of stain options and an additional 11 finishes from Farrow & Ball. The shutter range you choose determines the colours and stains available. For a small surcharge, we also offer a custom colour service and this won’t increase with volume – if you have your whole property fitted with shutters, there’s just the one charge. Ask us for more details.

Are shutters easy to maintain?
Yes! A gentle sweep with the fluffy end of the hoover or a natural feather duster will remove any dust. The MDF Lancaster shutters are particularly popular with families with kids as they’re completely wipeable. A quick wipe with a Jay cloth will remove any ketchup spills or greasy finger marks!

Do I need to do any maintenance?
No, our shutter fitters are highly skilled and your shutters will never drop or sag due to our strong fixing techniques. The hinges are also very robust. Occasionally, the louvres loosen up which is easily fixed by tightening the small tensioning screw on each side of the panel with a Phillips screwdriver.

Why choose shutters over curtains?
The list of reasons is endless!

  • Shutters look great both day and night, from the inside and out. Curtains are drawn at night with blank linings or open during the day, exposing the room and its contents.
  • Shutters also offer a level of security while you’re out during the day or away on holiday. Drawing your curtains during the day or for extended periods invites unwanted attention, whereas tilting shutters to an upward angle protects privacy and doesn’t look obvious to the outside world.
  • If you have tier-on tier shutters you can open the top panels during the day but maintain privacy and security, giving you the best of both worlds. Curtains are either open or closed.
  • Shutters offer better heat retention during the winter. Curtains, by comparison, cover radiators when closed sending the heat behind the material. Shutters keep you cosy and warm during the winter and cool during the hot summer.
  • If you have a south-facing room, sunlight on furniture, flooring and TVs can be an issue. Your shutter louvres can be angled to direct the sunlight where you want it while maintaining plenty of daylight.
  • Curtains have to be drawn to block out harsh sunlight. Not ideal during the day, unless you like sitting in darkness!
  • Curtains love dust particles and, sometimes, mites and insects too. Your shutters stay clean and fresh, year after year.

Do I need to know any special jargon?
Not really! Our knowledgeable sales team will help you through all the stages, describing the different options in straightforward terms.

Here’s a handy guide to basic shutter jargon:

Stiles
The left and right vertical parts of a shutter panel. They house the nylon bushing the louvre rotates on as well as strengthening strips inside for maximum strength and anti-warping.

Rails
The top and bottom horizontal pieces of the panels.

Mid rails
Mid rails provide additional strength to the shutter panel and are generally used for full-height panels. They also allow independent operation of the top and bottom section of above and below the mid-rail. These are placed where your windows break i.e. in a sliding sash window.

Louvres
Shutters offer choices of 47mm, 64mm, 89mm and 114mm louvres. The louvres rotate on a nylon pin in a nylon bush and are connected to a control rod by staples.

Tilt-rod
Coordinates the rotation of louvres for light, privacy and ventilation. The tilt rod is mounted on the centre of the louvre on the face of the panel. For three panels or more across from one hinge point we offset these by 5mm so they don’t hit one other when open. We also offer a hidden tilt-rod.

Café style
The shutters cover the bottom section of the window, creating privacy at the lower level while allowing full daylight to enter through the top.

Full height
The shutter covers the window full height within the opening. Where the panel height exceeds 100mm in height a dividing rail will be added. This allows moveable louvre sections above and below the dividing rail, which can work independent of one other.

Tier-on-tier
This option allows the top or lower tier to swing open independent of the bottom tier offering the most versatile shutter solution.

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