What Is Our Process For Your Plantation Shutters?

Congratulations – you’ve decided to install plantation shutters in your Virginia house! Plantation shutters add a striking architectural detail to your home or office. These window coverings also provide the best insulation since they’re custom-fitted into the window frame. At Shenandoah Shutters, we’re experts at installing plantation shutters, and we often get questions about what to expect from the process. 

Custom Consultation

You benefit from personalized service and design when selecting Shenandoah Shutters. We visit you to discuss in person your windows and the finish and design aesthetic you desire. We bring samples of our shutter panels to help you decide which one you like best. This consultation is a complementary part of your installation service.

Our design specialist measures each window you want to cover. Each shutter is created specifically for your windows, and we hand-cut and sand each shutter component. We give you a transparent quote for your options, including our estimated timeline for completion. Once you’ve made your selection, we take your deposit and get to work!

How Are Plantation Shutters Manufactured?

Part of the reason that Shenandoah Shutters plantation shutters look so lovely is the care and craftsmanship that goes into everything we make. It’s a complex, time-consuming process since each piece is hand-cut and sanded for a custom appearance based on precise measurements.

Great plantation shutters start with high-quality wood, and we only use the best materials for our custom window coverings. We use solid, paint-grade yellow poplar and stain-grade basswood so that the paint or stain has a consistent finish. Specialty woods such as mahogany, walnut, cherry, or oak are available upon request.

Poplar and basswood are excellent materials because they’re lightweight yet strong and have superb characteristics for woodworking. Plus, these types of wood accept many kinds of paint, stain, and finishes, which results in longer-lasting shutters.

Once you’ve approved the finish sample, we get to work on your project! We use proprietary software to create the order and sizing, no matter how complex the project is. The state-of-the-art software we use is part of why Shenandoah Shutters are so unique. Another thing that sets our shutters apart is our patented Softedge™ Shutter design, which hides the hinges completely when the shutter is closed resulting in a cleaner look and softens the appearance of the installation. This innovative solution is unlike any other shutter installation.

Before we paint or stain the shutters, we prime each piece twice and hand-sand it for a smooth, even finish. We seal the ends of the shutters, not just paint them, which prevents water damage that can cause warping. Each shutter is crafted with premium dowel construction, with all joined ends connected by wooden dowels, which are also hand-measured and finished. This means that all the joints of the shutter frame won’t separate and that each shutter functions smoothly for years.

Before the Installation Day

Our shutters are created in our Richmond woodshop, in the same location as our showroom. Production typically takes about four to eight weeks, depending on how many window coverings you’ve ordered and the kind of finish you prefer. We create a sample of your shutters, either paint-dipped or stained, depending on what you ordered. Stain blends can be more challenging to match, so we’ll submit a couple of samples for your approval. Our design support team will help you determine which stain blend is best for your interior. Once you’ve approved the sample, then we get to work preparing your window coverings!

Before we install your plantation shutters, we ask you to remove any existing window treatments and move furnishings out of the way of the windows, so our installation crew has easy access to do the work. We’ll give you an installation date so that you have time to accomplish this.

How Are Plantation Shutters Installed?

Plantation shutters are installed with a window sweep, a glass-sealing strip that ensures a snug fit. We measure each sweep for precision fit when installing your shutters, then install the shutter block, or frame, inside the window. The block is installed first so that it gives each piece complete support while installing the rest of the shutters.

The casing frames are crafted to complement your existing trip or crown molding and are the first step of installation. Then, the shutters themselves are installed, affixed inside the frame. Once we’re finished with each window, we test the shutters to ensure that they work properly. Finally, we clean up the mess and complete the big reveal!

Do You Want Plantation Shutters in Your Home?

Are you ready for lovely window coverings that add value to your Virginia home? The team at Shenandoah Shutters is ready to work with you. We pride ourselves on exceptional products made with superior products and expert craftsmanship. Call us today for a personalized consultation or visit our Facebook online showroom for design inspiration.