How Plantation Shutters Can Help With Energy Efficiency

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Many people are looking for ways to make their homes more energy-efficient. Energy-efficiency is better for the environment and can help reduce your utility bills. You might be surprised to learn that energy loss from windows is believed to be the reason for more than 25% of a homeowner’s heating and cooling costs. 

Installing energy-efficient windows, such as double-paned windows or windows with modern energy saving technologies, can potentially make a real difference for your pocketbook. Having an effective window treatment can also play a role in the energy-efficiency of your home. Window treatments include coverings like blinds, drapes, curtains, shades, and shutters. While all window treatments will help in some way to reduce energy loss, some window treatments are better at this than others. Plantation shutters, in particular, are well-known for their energy saving qualities.

Why Are Plantation Shutters So Energy-Efficient?

There are a couple of reasons why plantation shutters are so good at saving energy. Plantation shutters are meant to form a kind of seal against your window. The way that they are installed helps to reduce air loss or air gain. When the louvers (the horizontal slats of the shutter) are closed, they provide an extra source of insulation. When they’re open on a sunny day in the winter, for instance, they can let in a little more warmth. Plantation shutters are also much sturdier than other window treatments. The thickness of plantation shutters further serves as a strong barrier against energy loss. 

Wood Is An Energy-Efficient Material

The material of the plantation shutters matters, too. Hardwood plantation shutters are especially energy-efficient. This is because wood is such a strong and durable material. According to the American Forest Foundation, the cellular structure of wood includes air pockets. Air is an insulator and these air pockets help to reduce heat conductivity. 

Wood is also better for the environment than other materials, especially plastics.

Making Your Home More Energy-Efficient

Installing hardwood plantation shutters on your windows is a great first step when it comes to creating a more energy-efficient home. Plantation shutters will keep your house cooler in the summer and warmer in the winter. You can use plantation shutters all by themselves or you can add curtains, draperies, and valances for a dramatic design statement. The fabrics will provide another layer of insulation. 

Check Your Windows and Doors

Of course, there are still other actions that you can take to increase the energy-efficiency of your home. Adding weatherstripping to your windows and doors can provide its own seal against the air coming in and out of your home. Weather strips wear out over time, so it’s important to examine yours every winter or summer, when extreme temperatures tend to hit. 

Examine Your Water Usage

While it can be tempting to wash clothing in small batches or take many baths, your water usage plays a major role in the energy-efficiency of your home. Consolidating your water use and using less water are two ways to potentially reduce your water bills. 

Look at Your Lighting

Certain light bulbs are more energy-efficient than others. If you’re still using incandescent bulbs, try switching to another bulb, such as halogen or LED. These bulbs are more energy-efficient and might help you lower your electricity bill. Plus, the Department of Energy has been slowly phasing out incandescent light bulbs for years.

Adjust the Thermostat

Many people leave their thermostat at the same temperature even when they’re out of the house. Instead, adjust your thermostat before you leave home for the day. Lowering your thermostat at least 10 degrees during the winter and raising it at least 10 degrees during the summer can potentially result in huge savings.

Install Plantation Shutters from Shenandoah Shutters

Plantation shutters are the clear choice for a more energy-efficient home. For more than thirty years, Shenandoah Shutters has been handcrafting custom made, hardwood plantation shutters for Virginia, Maryland, and Washington, D.C. We use only the finest American hardwoods to manufacture solid, elegant plantation shutters for every window of your home.

Shenandoah Shutters is located in Richmond, Virginia, no more than a day’s drive away from all of our service areas. We cut plantation shutters for windows of any size or shape. We can even install plantation shutters on French or sliding glass doors, as well as sunbursts and arches.

We offer a variety of contemporary and traditional choices for plantation shutters, including our own, patented Softedge design. You can also choose from custom colors, creams, and stains to craft just the right look for your home.

Schedule an Appointment for Your Plantation Shutters

Contact Shenandoah Shutters online today for a free estimate and consultation! You can also give us a call at 1-800-733-1549. Check out some of our past projects by exploring our photo gallery.

6 Mistakes People Make When Purchasing Window Treatments

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A high-quality window treatment is likely one of the first purchases that you’ll make for your home. Window treatments are essential for light control, insulation, and home decor. However, making the right choice for your house  isn’t always easy. Here are 6 common mistakes people make when buying window treatments:

Mistake 1: Not Researching Different Types of Window Treatments

From blinds and shades to curtains and shutters, there are a wide variety of window treatments available for homeowners. Before selecting and purchasing your window treatment, you want to make sure that you’ve been able to thoroughly research and evaluate each option for your home. 

Blinds, for instance, often have cords that let you control the light that enters your home. They can be an array of sizes and types. Curtains, meanwhile, are pieces of fabric that cover your windows and can be tied back with a piece of fabric or cord. They often come in patterns, colors, and designs. You can also buy curtains that cover only the top of your window. 

Shades are another well-known choice for homeowners. Shades are large pieces of typically soft material that pull up or down over a window. Shutters, however, are designed to fit your windows. Plantation shutters, in particular, have horizontal slats (or louvers) that allow you to filter sunlight in and out of your home using a tilt rod. 

Mistake 2: Not Considering the Rooms of the Home 

Before purchasing a window treatment, it’s important to understand how a window treatment will impact the look, feel, and even safety angle of the rooms in your home. Humid rooms or rooms with varying temperatures, like bathrooms and kitchens, are best paired with a window treatment that can handle these changes. All bedrooms look best alongside a cozy window treatment, but a child’s bedroom is particularly well-suited to plantation shutters. The cords and dangling materials that are typical of blinds, curtains, and other, similar materials can all be extremely hazardous to young children. Plantation shutters have only a tilt rod, making this window treatment a much more family-friendly option. There are even some plantation shutter designs that hide the tilt rod altogether. 

Window treatments also play a noticeable role in the style of your rooms. Permanent window treatments made out of solid materials, like hardwood, will make your home more aesthetically pleasing and elegant. 

Mistake 3: Choosing a Window Treatment That Is Not Custom-Made 

It can be tempting to measure your own windows and quickly choose a window treatment, but taking the time to have your windows professionally measured for a custom window treatment is a real investment for your home. Inaccurate measurements or poorly-fitted window treatments negatively affect the look of your home. They can also affect the functionality of your windows. 

Mistake 4: Not Thinking Outside-of-the-Box

Your window treatments can be creative! You don’t necessarily have to give up curtains in favor of shutters, for instance. Instead, you can pair the two together for a dramatic room statement. You could also install a valance over cafe shutters or add sheer curtains to plantation shutters to really play with the light entering the room. 

Mistake 5: Forgetting About Maintenance Needs

If it’s difficult to maintain your window treatment, then you might want to choose a more low-key window covering. Blinds, for example, are notoriously difficult to clean. Curtains need to be cleaned regularly and eventually tear or wear-down. Shades, too, can rip and be in need of repair. 

The material of your window treatment can play a major role in the maintenance needs of the covering. Hardwood materials are typically more durable and more easily cleaned than plastic, vinyl, or fabric materials. 

Some installation techniques can also complicate your window treatment choices. For this reason, at Shenandoah Shutters, we don’t use a tension system. Not having to worry about adjusting the tension makes maintaining your window treatment a breeze. 

Mistake 6: Not Thinking About the Future

You may have no plans to ever sell your home, but if you do, plantation shutters are one of the only window treatments to actually increase the resale value of your home. Hardwood plantation shutters, in particular, are extremely sought after home buyers. These plantation shutters boost your curb appeal, too, so your home is seen as impressive right from the start. The result is a greater return on your investment years down the road. 

The longevity of your window treatment is another important factor to consider. Some window treatments last longer than others. Shades and blinds last less than a decade, while curtains usually last just a few years. Plantation shutters frequently last decades.

Window Treatments Are an Investment for Your Home

Your window treatment sets the tone of your house. When buying a window covering, it’s important to research all of your options. You want to consider both the current and future impact that the window treatment will have on your home. 

Scheduling an Appointment with Shenandoah Shutters

Shenandoah Shutters has been manufacturing handcrafted, custom made, hardwood plantation shutters since 1990. Our plantation shutters are made by our skilled woodworking employees right in our Richmond, Virginia woodshop.  

Plantation shutters are elegant, stylish, and timeless. These window treatments are longtime favorites in all of our service areas, including cities and counties in Maryland, Virginia, and Washington, D.C. With plantation shutters, the control you have over the light that enters your home is simply unmatched by any other window treatment. You’ll be able to set the ideal ambiance for each and every room of your home. 

Our plantation shutters come in a variety of styles, including our patented, Softedge design. You can also choose from custom colors, creams, and stains for the perfect look. We use only fine American woods for our plantation shutters and hand finish each shutter with a gorgeous silken lacquer. 

Are you ready to upgrade your existing window treatment to plantation shutters? Contact Shenandoah Shutters today for more information or to schedule an appointment for your windows.

Why Are Plantation Shutters Still In Style?

Why Are Plantation Shutters Still In Style
Why Are Plantation Shutters Still In Style
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Plantation shutters have been a staple of home windows for centuries, but they’ve grown and changed with the times. Originally, plantation shutters were designed for function rather than style. By the 1700s, however, plantation shutters were also designed with beauty in mind. When you think of plantation shutters now, you probably think of shutters with traditional, wide louvers and classic white paint. This stately plantation shutter design is still popular, but today’s plantation shutters also offer a variety of choices for modern homes. 

You may have wondered, why are plantation shutters still in style? What makes this window treatment so timeless? There are many reasons why plantation shutters are still a top choice for home window treatments. 

Plantation Shutters Are Fashionable and Functional

Plantation shutters elegantly combine fashion with function. Plantation shutters allow the homeowner to filter natural sunlight in and out of the home, something that can’t be done as easily or at all with blinds, curtains, and other window treatments. In 2021, your options for plantation shutters are limitless. 

At Shenandoah Shutters, you can choose from custom colors, deep stains, and sophisticated cream colors. You can select the look and functionality of your tilt rod, the tool that is used to open and close the louvers of the plantation shutter. For instance, you might prefer a tilt rod that allows you to independently control the upper and lower louver sets, or a tilt rod that controls both sets at once. You could even choose a hidden tilt rod altogether. For your louvers, choose from small or large sizes, as well as a flat or contour shape. 

Plantation Shutters Increase the Resale Value of the Home

If you decide to sell your home in the future, then plantation shutters can actually help you sell your home faster and at a higher value. This is particularly true of hardwood plantation shutters. The elegant look of hardwood plantation shutters appeals to buyers and the fact that the window treatment is a permanent fixture of the home is a huge selling point. 

Plantation Shutters Are Energy-Efficient

In recent years, the demand for energy-efficient home design has been growing. Because of the way they’re designed, plantation shutters are naturally energy-efficient. This means that they’ll keep your home cooler in the summer and warmer in the winter months. Many homeowners with plantation shutters find that their heating and air bills are reduced. Hardwood, too, is a renewable resource, so you can feel good about the sustainability of your plantation shutter materials. 

Plantation Shutters Are Family-Friendly

When designing a child’s nursery or playroom, safety is paramount. Window treatments are of particular concern because a young child — or even a curious pet — could become entangled by dangling cords, ties, or strings. Fabric curtains also need to be carefully considered and installed, because they could be pulled down by children, causing injuries. Plantation shutters do not have any cords or dangling materials, making them a safer option for child and family spaces. 

Plantation Shutters Are Versatile

Plantation shutters are beautiful options for every room of the home. They look just as good in the kitchen as they look in the living room or bedroom. When you redecorate a room, plantation shutters will fit right in with the new design. If you enjoy decorative curtains or draperies, then you can absolutely pair these fabric window treatments with plantation shutters for a unique, dramatic look. The versatility of plantation shutters is one of the best parts of choosing this window treatment for your home. 

Plantation Shutters Are Built to Last 

Plantation shutters are designed with longevity in mind. Hardwood is one of the earth’s most durable materials and hardwood plantation shutters are expected to last many years. Curtains and blinds, meanwhile, often need more frequent replacement or repair. 

Plantation Shutters at Shenandoah Shutters

Shenandoah Shutters has been installing these timeless plantation shutters for more than 30 years. We’re in Richmond, Virginia, within a day’s drive of our service areas in Maryland, Virginia, and Washington, D.C. All of our plantation shutters are handcrafted by our skilled woodworking employees at our Richmond woodshop. 

Shenandoah Shutters doesn’t use vinyl or plastic materials. Instead, we’re devoted to  using high-quality American hardwoods, including yellow poplar and basswood, for our plantation shutters. All plantation shutters are custom made for your window. We can craft windows to fit any size or shape, from arches and sunbursts to French and sliding glass doors. We even invented our own, patented Softedge design to provide a unique solution for tilt-in and casement windows. The Softedge is also a popular choice for anyone looking for a more contemporary plantation shutter.  

Schedule an Appointment for Your Plantation Shutters

Ready to add stylish plantation shutters to your home? Contact Shenandoah Shutters online today to schedule a free estimate and consultation! You can also give us a call at 1-800-733-1549. We’ll answer your questions, measure your windows, and put together a plan to enhance your home.

What Is Home Lighting Design And How Do Your Shutters Play Into It?

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We all know that a well-lit room can change the entire look and feel of a home, but you might be surprised to learn that there’s actually a science to good lighting. Architects and designers use certain rules and tricks to help a room have just the right ambiance. When lighting a home, professionals use at least three layers of lighting to achieve the desired effect. Learning how to properly layer and use lights is essential for quality interior design. 

Since plantation shutters allow you to filter sunlight in and out of the house, your shutters are another lighting layer that can make a huge difference in the comfort and style of your home.

Ambient Lighting

Ambient lighting is considered to be the first layer of lighting. This type of lighting provides the overall light in a room. It serves as the foundation of your lighting design. Strong examples of ambient lighting include chandeliers, wall sconces that spread light around the room, hanging pendant lights that bathe the room in light, and even ceiling fans with lights attached. 

Task Lighting

Task lighting, meanwhile, is light that focuses on a specific area. You need and use task lighting when you’re engaging in an activity that requires a more focused light. For example, reading, getting ready for the day, working from home, or cooking in the kitchen. 

For task lighting, you might have a vanity with lights, a desk lamp, pendants that focus light on a particular spot, cabinet lighting, or track lighting. 

Accent Lighting

Accent lighting is the third layer of home lighting design. Accent lighting allows you to highlight key parts of your home that you’d like others to see. This type of lighting is also great for hiding the parts of your house that you’d like others to avoid. 

Gallery lighting, or picture lighting, is a popular example of accent lighting. Dimmer switches on ambient lighting pieces, such as chandeliers, also provide a way to add a layer of accent lighting to a room. 

Choosing Your Light Bulbs

When lighting a room, the type and quality of light bulb that you choose plays a major role in the result of your lighting layer. When buying bulbs, it’s helpful to consider the color rendering index (CRI) listed on the package. Ideally, use light bulbs that have a CRI above 80. The closer you get to 100, the more accurate the colors of your room will appear. A CRI below 80 will leave your room looking faded and lackluster. 

You’ll also want to keep in mind the color temperature of your lights. This is measured in a degree known as Kelvin. The highest Kelvin degrees are bright white lights, while the lowest are soft and yellow. These yellow lights have become the standard and feel cozy in living spaces and bedrooms. In a kitchen, however, you’d likely prefer a cooler, brighter white light. In a home office, meanwhile, a daylight would be ideal for a well-lit environment. For mood lighting, as well as in general, LED bulbs are also becoming more and more preferred. 

When purchasing a light bulb, taking care to learn the color temperature, color rendering index, and even type of bulb will enhance the design of your home.

How Do Plantation Shutters Affect Lighting Design?

Plantation shutters offer a variety of functions for a home. They add privacy and make a room feel less exposed. They are fashionable and contribute to the design scheme of the home. They are energy-efficient. However, they also serve the important purpose of providing effective light control. 

With plantation shutters, you use the tilt rod to move the louvers, or horizontal slats, of the shutter. This allows you to control the sunlight entering each room. Natural sunlight is considered the ideal light source for any room.  Sunlight is mood boosting and sets the perfect ambiance. When you combine the right amount of natural sunlight with ambient, task, and accent lighting, your room will feel comfortable and complete. 

Designing Your Home Lighting

While you might be tempted to decorate and arrange your room before deciding on your lighting plans, it is usually better to plan your lighting before setting up a room. For instance, what activities will take place in your room? What mood are you wanting for the room? What pieces of the room or objects in the room would you most like to highlight? Answering these questions can help you determine the best ambient, task, and accent lighting for the space. 

Plantation Shutters from Shenandoah Shutters

Plantation shutters have been a treasured window treatment for centuries. Shenandoah Shutters has been handcrafting custom, hardwood plantation shutters for over 30 years. We’re located in Richmond, Virginia, and service Virginia, Maryland, and Washington, D.C. We can build plantation shutters for windows of any size or shape. We provide a variety of traditional and contemporary plantation shutter looks, including our own, patented Softedge design. 

If you’re ready to enhance your home’s lighting design, contact Shenandoah Shutters online today. You can also give us a call at 1-800-733-1549. 

Everything You Need To Know About Our Softedge Shutters

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At Shenandoah Shutters, we know every Virginia and Maryland home is different, which is why we offer a range of different types of plantation shutters. Sometimes a tall, traditional plantation shutter is perfect for your home, while other homes seek the quirkiness and versatility of cafe shutters. If you have a modern home, or prefer a minimalist look, we recommend our Softedge shutters. 

Softedge may not be a name you’ve heard before when searching for plantation shutters, and there’s a reason for that. These are plantation shutters you can only find through Shenandoah Shutters. Here’s everything you need to know about them.

Softedge™ Shutters Are Patented

You can’t find Softedge™ shutters anywhere but with Shenandoah Shutters…because they’re our own patented product. We saw a need for a more subtle, minimalist shutter that offered all the usual benefits of plantation shutters, and we filled that need. These shutters use their unique and patented design to offer a subtle plantation shutter that’s well worth trying something new. 

What Makes Softedge Shutters Different?

Traditional plantation shutters have a grand and classic look, but it might not be what every home needs. Some homeowners prefer a sleek, subtle look, and you can find that with Softedge Shutters. They come with sculptured edges that allow the shutters to look like an extension of your window frame. The hinges are concealed within built-in panels and tilt wands are designed more subtly for a more minimalist appearance. If you want the convenience, privacy, and customizable shade of plantation shutters, but with a more modern look, Softedge shutters are the way to go. 

What Are Our Softedge Shutters Made Of?

All of our plantation shutters are made with authentic wood. We use basswood for our stained shutters, but for white or cream shutters — which makes up most of our Softedge shutters — we typically use yellow poplar for its hardier, less porous nature. This allows the color to really pop. We also make shutters with custom wood, such as oak, mahogany, or cherry. All of our Softedge shutters are handmade in our workshop in Richmond, Virginia. 

Ordering Softedge Plantation Shutters For Your Home

Thinking about having Softedge plantation shutters installed in your home? You can find them handmade with care at Shenandoah Shutters and Shenandoah Shutters only. Contact us today to learn more about the Softedge benefit and how to have them installed in your own home.

Creating the Perfect Breakfast Nook In Your Home

Creating the Perfect Breakfast Nook In Your Home
Creating the Perfect Breakfast Nook In Your Home
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Intimate breakfast nooks have been a growing trend for years. Traditionally, a nook is a dining area found in the corner space of your kitchen. You can use your breakfast nook for morning coffee and conversation, but this spot can also be the perfect place for after school homework sessions and family game nights. The extra seating provided by a breakfast nook means many opportunities for activities and dining alike. Plus, breakfast nooks make a kitchen feel more cheery and warm. 

Have you been planning to add a breakfast nook to your home? Are you wondering about your style options and ideas? Here are some of our favorite tips for breakfast nook design: 

Choose a Theme for Your Breakfast Nook

You don’t have to have a specific theme in mind for your breakfast nook, but it can be helpful to consider your options. The style that you’d like will influence your choices in table, chairs, fabrics, colors, and more. For example, if you’d like a vintage or retro breakfast nook, you might incorporate furnishings and decor that resemble a certain decade (like the 1950s). For a farmhouse theme, you might focus on gingham fabrics, rustic decor, a wooden table, and fresh flowers. 

Consider Your Table and Seating Arrangements

Do you want a table and chairs in your breakfast nook? What about a restaurant-style booth or comfortable benches? Your seating and table arrangements form the foundation of your breakfast nook. You might also prefer a kitchen island or bar set-up for your nook. 

Make Your Breakfast Nook Cozy

Keep your breakfast nook feeling comfortable by including throw pillows and blankets, as well as uniquely patterned fabrics and rugs. The type of textiles that you choose could be related to a certain theme, or they could simply be mismatched fabrics for a different feel. 

Use Your Breakfast Nook for Added Storage

Lately, there’s been a strong focus on minimalism and decluttering. Adding benches with storage or installing shelving and cabinets around your nook can make a difference for your home. Not a minimalist? Consider open shelving to more easily display cherished trinkets and kitchen utensils, while still including additional storage. Open shelving is especially popular for a farmhouse theme. 

Embrace Your Kitchen’s Natural Light

If possible, building your breakfast nook next to a window can do wonders for your home’s ambiance. Natural light is uplifting, especially in the mornings. To avoid too much or too little light, adding plantation shutters to your kitchen is the best step. Plantation shutters filter sunlight in and out of your house. Using the tilt rod on the shutters, you control the louvers — horizontal slats — of your plantation shutters. This means that you are completely in control of how much sunlight enters your space without sacrificing privacy or scenic views from your windows. 

Completely natural, all wooden plantation shutters are the top choice for homeowners. The natural wood of plantation shutters will give your kitchen character, elegance, and an even richer warmth. 

Incorporate a Sophisticated Light Fixture

Natural lighting works best when it is combined with equally welcoming ambient lighting. You’ll also draw more attention to your breakfast nook with specific lighting choices. Incorporating a stylish lighting fixture into your space will accomplish both of these tasks. Pendant lights, chandeliers, sculptural designs, and geometric fixtures are all familiar favorites for breakfast nooks

Looking for Plantation Shutters in Virginia, Maryland, and Washington, D.C?

Shenandoah Shutters has been handcrafting hardwood plantation shutters in Richmond, Virginia, for more than 30 years. We can build and install the perfect plantation shutters for your breakfast nook. Our main service area includes locations within Maryland, Virginia, and Washington, D.C. 

Each plantation shutter crafted by Shenandoah Shutters is custom made for your window. We offer staining and color options, as well as the option to request a custom wood type. We can build plantation shutters for windows of any size or shape, and offer a variety of solutions for even the most difficult to install window treatments. You can also install plantation shutters on sliding glass and French doors. 

Plantation shutters come with plenty of additional perks for your home, too. Hardwood plantation shutters boost the resale value of your home, increase your house’s curb appeal, and are an energy-efficient choice. 

Schedule an Appointment with Shenandoah Shutters Today

Have you recently purchased a new home? Are you looking to upgrade an existing window treatment? Contact Shenandoah Shutters to schedule an appointment or for more information about our plantation shutter options. You can also explore our online photo gallery for a glimpse into our past designs.

How Long Do Plantation Shutters Last

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How Long Do Plantation Shutters Last

Plantation shutters are beautiful when they’re first installed, but how long do they stay that way? Nothing is designed to last forever, but well-made plantation shutters should last for years to come without having to be replaced or frequently repaired. The truth is, it depends on the shutters themselves, the way they’re made, and the shutter company that manufactures and installs them.

Hand-Crafted Shutters vs. Mass Produced

Mass produced plantation shutters are made faster, generally in a factory and by machines. The problem is that these mass produced shutters don’t have the same level of quality control that they would have if a human being made them. Machines can be smart, but they still don’t have the same critical thinking skills that a person has. 

On the other hand, our shutters are hand-crafted in our workshop. Every shutter is made by human hands and made to last. We have experience to know what will ensure durable and beautiful plantation shutters. And we put that same level of dedication into each shutter we make. That means when we say our shutters last, we can stand behind them because we made them ourselves.

Interior Wood Shutters

Wood can get a bad reputation when it comes to durability. Despite being a sturdy material, it’s also quite porous, and when exposed to moisture or humidity, wood can swell, warp, or rot. This is all true, but it tends to be more of a concern with exterior wood elements. Interior plantation shutters exist in a more controlled environment and therefore will last for a longer period of time without swelling, warping, or rotting, especially if regular maintenance is done. In addition, we make many of our shutters with hardy woods such as yellow poplar to ensure that durability.

Shutter Maintenance

As we mentioned, our plantation shutters are made with wood, which is known for its permeability. Thus when cleaning plantation shutters, it’s a good idea to avoid wetting them first. Instead, use a slightly damp soft cloth to wipe down the louvers and sides of the shutters. Additionally, avoid using any harsh chemicals when cleaning shutters. For stained wood shutters, you will want to refinish them every few years in order to ensure their health, as well as repainting painted shutters occasionally. However, our shutters are made to minimize the frequency with which this will need to be done. If you notice the stain or paint fading, it may be time to give them a touchup.

Painted and Stained Shutters

At Shenandoah Shutters, we offer both painted and stained plantation shutters. Our stained plantation shutters enhance the natural, earthy beauty of the wood. For these, we typically use basswood, which comes through beautifully with a natural stain. However, some homeowners prefer white or cream shutters to better suit their home’s style. For these shutters, we use the less porous yellow poplar wood. This gives the paint a more vibrant appearance and allows it to last longer without fading. 

Our shutters are built to last for years and years to come, and with a little bit of maintenance and occasional touch ups, that’s just what you’ll be able to enjoy from them. Have more questions about the durability of our shutters? Contact Shenandoah Shutters today to learn more or to order plantation shutters of your own.

How Long Does Plantation Shutter Installation Take?

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Plantation Shutter Installation

At Shenandoah Shutters, we install every set of plantation shutters we sell. Because we’re so experienced with plantation shutter installation — and we know the windows of the area and the shutters we build — you can have confidence that your shutters are installed properly and efficiently. The question is how long that takes. 

While the installation itself is likely to take perhaps the least amount of time, the process of ordering your shutters to plantation shutter installation is a different story. Typically, the process from start to finish is about 4-7 weeks from order placement. Here’s why:

In-Home Consultation

Our in-home estimate is not required for plantation shutter purchase, but it is certainly recommended. With our in-home estimates, a sales consultant will arrive with sample panels so you can see how the plantation shutters will look in your own home. This will need to be scheduled based on your availability and ours, but once the day comes, it typically takes only an hour or so.

Hand-Crafted Plantation Shutters

Our shutters are made by hand in our workshop in Richmond, Virginia. We want to make sure they’re beautifully crafted and made to last, which can take time. The crafting of the shutters themselves will take up the most time when it comes to the process of your plantation shutters; but is well worth the wait for plantation shutters that are crafted just for your home, according to the measurements of your window and your style preferences.

Specialty or Custom Shutters

We also offer plantation shutters made with custom woods such as oak, cherry, or mahogany upon request from the customer. We also offer specialty shutters such as shutters with a sunburst arch. These shutters, however, take slightly longer than our standard shutters due to having the right supplies in stock and the extra labor required for the design. We want to make sure our custom shutters are also made to our usual standard of excellence, and our customers find them to be worth the wait.

Our Availability and Yours

The project also depends on our workload and availability. During peak season for plantation shutter orders — especially spring and summer — certain projects might take longer than they would in fall and winter simply due to the demand. Your availability also plays a role. When scheduling a day for the installation itself, you’ll need to find something that works within your schedule, as well as ours.

Plantation Shutter Installation

Once the date is set and the day finally comes, the actual installation will likely only last for an hour or two. It depends largely on the types of plantation shutters you order, as well as how many you plan to have installed. Old window treatments will need to be removed and the new shutters will then be installed. They will be secured to the window for durability. Before the team leaves, your shutters will not only be installed but you will know how to use them.

Before the job begins, you’ll be given a quote that should give you not just the price of the work but an estimated amount of time it will take for your shutters to be installed. Have further questions about our process? Feel free to ask. Contact Shenandoah Shutters today to learn more or get started.

The Difference Between Interior and Exterior Shutters

Difference Between Interior and Exterior Shutters
Difference Between Interior and Exterior Shutters
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When you think about window shutters for your home, what do you picture? Is it colorful shutters on either side of the exterior window, or elegant interior shutters that allow you to filter light into your home while offering shade and privacy? You can find both exterior or interior shutters for your home, but they will likely look very different. The biggest difference, of course, is that interior shutters are on the inside while exterior shutters are on the outside. But beyond that, it’s useful to know the difference in what each type of shutter offers, so you know exactly what you’re getting. 

Exterior Shutters Are Mostly Left Open

Exterior shutters, like interior shutters, can cover your window and offer you more privacy; but they are primarily left open. This is because it would be a pain to have to go outside every time you wanted to open or close the shutters, especially when windows usually include interior window treatments that are far easier to operate. Exterior shutters are primarily closed only when you intend for that window to be closed off for a substantial amount of time.

Interior Shutters Are More Customizable

It’s not just that interior shutters are easier to open and close. Interior plantation shutters also have adjustable slats, so you can have the shutters closed but the slats open, letting in sunlight while still offering privacy and protecting your window. You can use the tilt wand to adjust the slats to let in as much or as little sunlight as you want.

Exterior Shutters Are Decorative

You’ll find exterior shutters in brighter or bolder colors than interior shutters, which are often white or cream or stained wood. This is because exterior shutters are primarily there to boost your curb appeal. Even if they aren’t used often, they add to the overall style of your exterior walls and create a more homey appearance. They can also add contrast to your siding by matching the trim of your home, giving the walls a more varied look. 

Interior Shutters Have More Options

Exterior shutters can come in different shapes and sizes, but these are largely to fit the shape of the window. For instance, windows with a domed top will have shutters that curve at the top. Interior plantation shutters have yet more options, such as cafe shutters which cover half the window and leave the other half exposed. Softedge shutters have subtle frames so that they seem to be part of the window, while traditional plantation shutters have more of the classic elegance.

Exterior Shutters Are Exposed To the Elements

While wood shutters are lovely, homeowners have to be careful choosing wood plantation shutters. Exposed to wind, rain, humidity, and harsh sunlight, wood shutters require frequent treatment in order to keep from warping, swelling, or rotting. Fading paint can also be an issue. Exterior shutters, though rarely used, can require regular maintenance in order to keep their fresh appearance. Because of this, many homeowners opt for vinyl exterior shutters.

Interior Shutters Are Mostly Made With Wood

Interior shutters, however, are not exposed to the elements and are therefore lower maintenance. These shutters can enjoy the beauty and feel of authentic wood. Of course, they still need to be made with care. Our stained wood plantation shutters are made of basswood, but our painted shutters are made with less porous poplar shutters, so these shutters will be as durable and low maintenance as possible.

The truth is both exterior and interior shutters have their merits: exterior shutters are best for boosting your curb appeal, while interior shutters are perfect for enjoying privacy and customizable sunlight in your home. Contact Shenandoah Shutters today to learn more about our interior plantation shutter options.

The Best Plantation Shutters For Your Window Style

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There are many different styles of windows, so it seems only fitting that there are many different types of plantation shutters from Shenandoah Shutters. Some of these shutters and window styles match more seamlessly than others. For instance, if you have a wide, classic window, a traditional plantation shutter style will be a better fit. If you have something sleek and modern, maybe our patented Softedge shutters will make more sense. Looking for the perfect shutters to match your window? Let’s break down some great pairings in today’s blog. 

Fixed/Picture Windows

These windows can come in all shapes and sizes, but the commonality is that they are not designed to open. Fixed windows, also known as picture windows, are “fixed” and designed only to let in light or enhance the style of a room. The type of shutter that you choose for these windows will depend on the shape, but cafe shutters can add a dynamic layer to your picture windows. Cafe shutters only cover half of the window, leaving the top half open or sometimes covered with a small cafe curtain. You might also opt for custom shutters to suit your custom picture windows.

Shenandoah Shutters for Fixed/Picture Windows

Casement Windows

Casement windows are tall, narrow windows that open out from a hinge at the side, much like a door. These windows can stand alone or in rows — or they might be placed on either side of a large window such as a bay or bow window. For casement windows, we suggest something subtle that shows off the style of the casement window: our Softedge shutters, with their discreet frames and hidden tilt wands. If your casement windows stand on either side of bay or bow windows, you may use Softedge shutters for the casement windows and something more grand for the larger windows, to add to the cohesive style. 

Shenandoah Shutters for Casement Windows

Bay/Bow Windows

These windows are often the largest, grandest window styles. They are made up of three or five window panes that curve outward, forming a wide window seat and expansive views, perfect for sitting with a good book and listening to the rain. These windows make a big, classic impression, and we love to see traditional plantation shutters used on them to draw out that timeless quality. On the other hand, Softedge shutters can add a sleeker appearance to them. Opt for stained shutters when it comes to bay or bow windows in order to bring out the natural beauty of the wood.

Shenandoah Shutters for Bay/Bow Windows

Double Hung or Single Hung

These are popular window styles, in which the window is divided horizontally by two different sashes. In single-hung windows, one of those sashes is fixed while the other will move up and down. Double hung windows have two fully operable and two locks for added security. Because of the split of these windows, we like cafe shutters for a seamless blend. You can leave the top half of the window open or cover it in a short curtain for extra style.

Shenandoah Shutters for Double Hung Windows

Sliding Windows

Sliding windows function like a small version of sliding glass patio doors. They are wide horizontal windows in which one or both sashes moves from one side of the track to the other for easy operation. They are most popular in kitchens and bathrooms, because of the easy ventilation. Softedge shutters, painted white or cream, will add style to these windows without taking away from the function of them. 

Shenandoah Shutters for Sliding Windows

Hand-Made Plantation Shutters For Any Window Style

Whatever your window style, Shenandoah Shutters can help with handmade shutters made in our workshop in Richmond, VA. Our stained shutters are made with basswood, while our painted shutters are made with the less porous yellow poplar wood. But it doesn’t stop there. We also offer custom shutters in specialty woods like cherry, mahogany, and oak. 

Interested in installing plantation shutters to suit your new windows? Whatever shutters you’re interested in, let Shenandoah Shutters be your source. Contact us today to learn more about our shutters, to order your own, or to visit our workshop and showroom.