The Difference Between Hardwood and Softwood

Hardwood vs Softwood
Hardwood vs Softwood
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When choosing window treatments and even home decor, you’ve likely wondered about the difference between hardwood and softwood. Is one version stronger than the other? Does it matter? Here’s a closer look at hardwood and softwood materials:

Hardwood vs. Softwood

When you think of the words hardwood and softwood, your first thought is probably that hardwood is heavier or more durable than softwood. While that’s certainly true in most cases, it isn’t always the case. In fact, many hardwoods are lightweight, while quite a few softwoods are heavy. So, why the name? The real difference between hardwoods and softwoods actually comes from the trees themselves. 

Hardwood Trees and Softwood Trees

Hardwood trees lose their leaves during the fall months, while softwood trees have needles or cones that they keep all year long. Hardwood trees (or deciduous trees) also produce seeds that have a covering, like acorns or apples. Softwood trees (or conifer trees) don’t have a covering over their seeds. 

Hardwood trees include familiar trees like maple, oak, and mahogany, as well as basswood and yellow poplar trees. Because softwoods grow faster than hardwood trees, it is true that these woods tend to be less dense than hardwood. Of course, there are certain woods that don’t fit this rule. Balsa wood, for instance, is a hardwood that is actually soft and light. Yew trees, meanwhile, are unusually heavy softwoods. Other softwoods that you know are pine, cedar, redwood, and spruce. 

Hardwood Is a Porous Material

There are other differences between hardwoods and softwoods, too. Hardwood is porous, while softwood is not. Pores are essentially vessels that are used for sap production within the tree. Interestingly, hardwood is often placed into categories based on its pores. For example, the hardwood from oak trees is ring-porous. This means that the pores suddenly transition from small to large, with the largest pores easily visible to a person. Other trees, meanwhile, are semi-porous(similar to ring-porous, but the transition from small to large isn’t as sudden) or diffuse porous (the pores are the same size). 

Some trees may also have other pore types, such as pores that are solitary, multiple, or wavy. A hardwood’s pores, combined with several other physical features of the tree, is what helps the tree be quickly identified. Since softwood trees don’t have pores, these trees can often be identified with help from their rings and stains. 

Hardwood or Softwood: Which Is Best for Building? 

Both hardwoods and softwoods have their advantages and disadvantages when it comes to their use as a building material. As a general rule, since hardwood does tend to be denser than softwood, it is routinely chosen for projects requiring compact strength, such as flooring and furniture. Softwood, meanwhile, is commonly selected for plywood and even making paper. 

The Advantages of Hardwood Window Treatments

Thanks to its natural beauty and durability, hardwood has long been a favorite material for homeowners. Hardwood window treatments are as sophisticated as they are long lasting and functional. Wooden plantation shutters, in particular, actually increase the resale value of a house. 

Hardwood is versatile not only when it comes to building projects, but also in terms of design. Wood blends easily with any room theme, decor, or color choice. At Shenandoah Shutters, you can choose a rich stain for your hardwood plantation shutters, or you can select shades of white, as well as custom colors. 

Trees for Plantation Shutters

The woodworking team at Shenandoah Shutters can handcraft plantation shutters from a hardwood of your choice, such as cherry or mahogany, or you can use our traditional choices. For stained plantation shutters, we use basswood, a lightweight hardwood that is gorgeously crafted for our homes. With basswood, because it is naturally uniform in color, the stain grows richer over time. For white plantation shutters, meanwhile, we prefer yellow poplar wood. Yellow poplar wood tends to be a natural blend of a variety of colors, which results in a particularly vibrant look once it is painted white. 

Many people choose to select a material that matches the moulding in their homes or their furniture pieces. Shenandoah Shutters can work with you to design plantation shutters that match your existing furnishings. 

The Benefits of Plantation Shutters for Your Home

Plantation shutters are an ideal window treatment. Unlike blinds or curtains, plantation shutters allow you to filter sunlight in and out of your home without sacrificing privacy. Using the tilt rod, you control the louvers (horizontal slats) of the plantation shutters to create just the right ambiance for every room. 

Hardwood plantation shutters, in particular, look beautiful in any room of the house. Even playrooms and children’s rooms benefit from plantation shutters, thanks to the lack of cords or dangling materials that could be dangerous for young children. Plantation shutters are also easy to maintain. You don’t have to worry about your plantation shutters wearing down, like fabric window treatments do. At Shenandoah Shutters, you don’t even have to adjust the tension, as we don’t use a tension system. 

Plantation shutters are energy-efficient, too, so your home will naturally be warmer in the winter and cooler in the summer with these shutters. The result is often reduced heating and air bills. 

Plantation Shutters from Shenandoah Shutters

Shenandoah Shutters has been crafting custom made, hardwood plantation shutters in our Richmond, Virginia woodshop for decades. We serve Virginia, Maryland, and Washington, D.C and offer both contemporary and traditional plantation shutter options. We have creative solutions for even the most difficult window needs.We have  our own, patented Softedge design that is ideal for casements and tilt-ins, as well as anyone who simply prefers a more modern look. With the Softedge, the hinges of the plantation shutters are concealed with the shutters are closed, giving your window a clean and harmonious appearance.

Shenandoah Shutters can install hardwood plantation shutters on windows of any size or shape. You can even have plantation shutters installed on your French or sliding glass door. 

Schedule an Appointment with Shenandoah Shutters

Have you recently purchased a new home? Are you hoping to upgrade your existing window treatment? Contact Shenandoah Shutters today!  Our design consultants will measure your windows and help you plan for the perfect plantation shutters. 

Installing Plantation Shutters On Your Beach House

Installing Plantation Shutters On Your Beach House
Installing Plantation Shutters On Your Beach House
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If you’re lucky enough to live by the sea, then you know firsthand the joy of having natural, beach sunlight shine into your home. With summer fast approaching, many homeowners are upgrading their beach houses, especially with continued social distancing measures keeping more people at home. Are you considering installing plantation shutters on your beach house? Here’s what you need to know:

Plantation Shutters Have a Tropical History 

For hundreds of years, plantation shutters have been the favorite of seaside communities and beach towns. This is because plantation shutters are able to block the immediate heat of the sun without sacrificing the cool, light breezes that we associate with summer time. In fact, plantation shutters are actually energy-efficient in that they naturally keep homes cooler in the summer months, and warmer in the winter months. This can help you save money on your energy bills.

Plantation Shutters Provide Views and Privacy

If you drive through communities like Virginia Beach, for example, you’ll quickly notice the popularity of plantation shutters. Of course, homeowners aren’t just benefiting from a more energy-efficient window treatment. They’re also appreciating the unique ability of plantation shutters to provide privacy while still blocking any prying eyes from seeing inside of the home. 

The design of plantation shutters allows you to tilt the louvers (horizontal slats) of your plantation shutters for added privacy while still enjoying your beachside views. 

With plantation shutters, you have unprecedented control over the sunlight that filters in and out of your home. This means that you can also create amazing mood lighting, which is ideal for a seaside retreat. You don’t have to worry about too much or too little sunlight, a common problem with dramatic features, like blackout curtains, or other window treatments, such as blinds.

Plantation Shutters Are Safer for Families

Inviting the whole family over for beach house fun is a summertime tradition. Many families prefer plantation shutters in their children’s bedrooms and playrooms, because plantation shutters do not have dangling cords or materials that could pose a hazard to a small, curious child. This is also a benefit for plantation shutters throughout the home, as you don’t have to worry about your child playing with cords on living room blinds or pulling down curtains. 

Plantation Shutters Are Stylish for Beach Houses

Style is an essential part of beach home ownership. Natural wood is a favorite choice for coastal home furnishings, so hardwood plantation shutters are a perfect match. You could choose to stain the wood or select a color that suits your home. Lighter colors, like whites, off-whites, and shades of ocean colors, are common choices for beach homes. 

Plantation shutters are versatile in that they also pair well with any decor. You can change up your home design scheme anytime you’d like without worrying that the new theme will clash with your plantation shutters. If you are a fan of other window treatments, like curtains, you can also choose to hang them alongside your plantation shutters for a bold room statement. You can then switch out the curtains as desired without worrying about how the curtains will look against the plantation shutters. 

Plantation Shutter Choices for Beach Homes

When it comes to choosing the style of your plantation shutters, you have many options. At Shenandoah Shutters, our customers can choose preferred designs for the tilt rod and louvers. 

The tilt rod is the tool on the plantation shutters that lets you control louver movement. This is what allows you to open, tilt, and close your plantation shutters. The look of your tilt rod is based on personal preference. You could select a single tilt rod, which attaches all of the louvers from the top of the shutter panel to the bottom, or you might prefer a divider rail to control the upper and lower sets of the louvers separately. Other tilt rod options include a split tilt rod or even a hidden rod for a more modern plantation shutter look. 

The louvers themselves are available in 2.5”, 3.5”, and 4.5” sizes. If you’d like a larger space between each louver when your shutters are open, then you might prefer a larger louver size. 

You can even choose the shape of your louvers.Some people prefer a flat louver shape, while others prefer a contoured louver shape. Contoured louvers are designed in a way that resembles an airplane, with a wide middle and a tapered front and back. Your design consultant can help you decide which plantation shutter looks are right for your beach house.

Contemporary or Traditional Plantation Shutter Styles for Beach Houses

At Shenandoah Shutters, we even have another contemporary option, our patented Softedge design. With the Softedge, the panel is blended into your moulding, giving your window a particularly discrete, cohesive appearance that is similar to the look of European-style cabinetry. The Softedge is loved for all window types, but it is an especially wonderful solution for tilt-ins and casements. 

Shenandoah Shutters for Your Beach House

Shenandoah Shutters is located in Richmond, Virginia. We’ve been serving Virginia, Maryland, and Washington, D.C for more than 30 years. Many of the towns and cities found within our service areas are located on or near the beach. 

Shenandoah Shutters handcrafts custom made, hardwood plantation shutters for windows of any size or shape. We can even install plantation shutters on French doors, sliding glass doors, sidelights, and unique windows, such as triangular panels or sunbursts. We have a variety of options to avoid boxy frames or hanging strips, and to maintain the functionality of tilt-in and casement style windows. In the past, we’ve even used magnets on certain difficult installations!

Schedule an Appointment with Shenandoah Shutters

Plantation shutters are a beautiful, worthwhile investment for your home, whether it’s by the sea or landlocked. Contact Shenandoah Shutters online today or call 1-800-733-1549 for more information on plantation shutters for your home. 

We’ve remained open throughout the COVID-19 pandemic and continue to provide services safely. Our design team will help you select and install the perfect plantation shutters for your windows.

4 Mistakes To Avoid When Choosing Plantation Shutters

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Choosing Plantation Shutters

Whether you’re looking for beauty, durability, or ease of operation, plantation shutters are often the best shutters you can choose for your home. So the choice to go with plantation shutters is one easily made. However, there are still mistakes that can occur when choosing the right plantation shutters for your home. Not all plantation shutters are made with equal quality, and if you choose wrongly, you might find that your money was wasted and that you need new plantation shutters, anyway. Here are a few mistakes you’ll want to avoid when choosing plantation shutters:

Assuming That Cheapest Is Best

Consumers have a tendency to assume that the cheapest products will be the best option for them. After all, it saves them the most money, so they’ll be able to put the rest of that budget towards other things. However, this isn’t always the case, especially if you’re looking for a lasting solution. 

While the most expensive option is often overcharged, you do want window treatments that are both beautiful and crafted to last for years. The last thing you want is to have to spend untold money repairing your damaged window treatments, or replacing them every few years. Handcrafted, beautiful plantation shutters that are built to last are typically worth the added cost.

Defaulting To Basswood

Basswood is the most common type of plantation shutter wood, typically. We even use it here at Shenandoah Shutters…for our stained plantation shutters. But basswood is particularly porous, which makes it less than ideal if you intend to go with white or cream painted shutters. If you choose basswood for painted shutters, it may require more than average paint in order to get the job done, and that paint may begin to fade over time. That’s why for painted shutters, we tend to go for yellow poplar wood.

Not Knowing the Different Types of Plantation Shutters

Don’t assume that buying plantation shutters only means one kind of style for one type of window. While the most popular types of plantation shutters are grand traditional plantation shutters, there are a few options to choose from. Cafe shutters, for instance, only cover half of the window, leaving the other half open and exposed to sunlight. There are also our patented Softedge shutters, with hidden hinges and subtle frames so that they seem to blend seamlessly into the window. 

Buying Plantation Shutters From a Box of a Major Franchise Company

Just because a company is a big name doesn’t mean you should trust them with all of your home decor or window treatment needs. The truth is, companies like Home Depot or Menards just have products shipped into the stores without much thought to the location. On the other hand, our shutters are handcrafted in Richmond, Virginia and shipped throughout the nearby regions. We know the climate, the homes, the people. And you know that your money is going to a local company that puts their heart into their work.

Choosing plantation shutters for your home is great, but it comes down to choosing the right plantation shutters from a manufacturer you know you can trust. For that, there’s Shenandoah Shutters in Richmond, Virginia. Want to learn more? Contact us today for more information about our shutters or come by our showroom to see them for yourself.

How to Adjust and Operate Plantation Shutters

How to Adjust and Operate Plantation Shutters
How to Adjust and Operate Plantation Shutters
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Plantation shutters can add beauty, efficiency, and durability to your windows in a way that you simply can’t experience with any other window treatment. However, if you’re interested in plantation shutters, you have to keep in mind that they don’t function the same way other window treatments do. You might not adjust plantation shutters in the same way you would blinds; you can’t open and close them in the same way you would open curtains. Plantation shutters are something different and should be treated as such. With that said, in today’s blog let’s discuss how to adjust and operate plantation shutters.

Opening and Closing

Plantation shutters are hinged at the side of your windows, so they function somewhat like a door.

Often, there are two plantation shutters that meet in the middle. These both open towards yourself and close just as easily.

Plantation shutters can also include a latch in the middle in order to stay closed or locked for added security or they include knobs for ease of opening and closing.

Adjusting Your Shutters

Plantation shutters have the same sort of mechanism for adjusting the louvers that blinds have: a tilt rod.

The general purpose of a tilt rod is to turn the rod, which will then tilt the louvers up or down to adjust the amount of sunlight that comes into the room.

Shenandoah Shutters offers a range of tilt rod options for your plantation shutters:

  • Single tilt rod – which adjust all the louvers at once
  • Divider rail – separating the top louvers from the bottom louvers so they can be adjusted independently
  • Split tilt rod – which adjusts the top and bottom louvers separately
  • Hidden tilt rod – hidden discreetly behind a panel for a sleeker look

Differences Between Different Types of Shutters

There are a few different types of plantation shutters, and each look a little different. Operation is generally the same, but they may offer different levels of coverage or sunlight filtration.

The first and most common is the traditional plantation shutter. Full-length and stately, this is the “grandfather” of plantation shutters.

There are also cafe shutters, however, that only cover the lower half of the window, leaving the top half open or to be covered with a short cafe curtain.

We also offer our subtle, patented Softedge shutters. They blend in to the window frame by excluding a boxy frame and concealing their hinges and tilt rod. Otherwise, however, operation is largely the same.

Plantation shutters are easy to adjust and easy to operate, especially when well-made by Shenandoah Shutters.

Interested in plantation shutters of your own? Contact Shenandoah Shutters today to learn more about our plantation shutters or to order your own.

Frequently Asked Questions

  • How do you open and close plantation shutters?

Plantation shutters are hinged like doors, so you simply pull them open or push them closed. Many designs include panels that meet in the middle and may have a latch or knob for easy operation.

  • How do you adjust the louvers on plantation shutters?

Use the tilt rod (the vertical bar attached to the slats) to adjust the louvers. Moving it up or down tilts all slats at once, allowing you to control light, airflow, and privacy.

  • Can you adjust the top and bottom of shutters separately?

Some shutters feature a divider rail or split tilt rod, allowing the top and bottom louvers to be adjusted independently for more flexible light and privacy control. 

  • Can plantation shutters be fully closed for privacy?

Yes. When the louvers are closed tightly and the panels are shut, plantation shutters provide strong privacy and help block outside light.

Will Plantation Shutters Fade? And Other Interior Shutters Questions Answered

Interior Shutters Questions Answered
Interior Shutters Questions Answered
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If you want interior window treatments you can trust that make an elegant statement, plantation shutters are the way to go. They help to insulate your home, protect your windows, and add style to any room where you have plantation shutters installed. But plantation shutters are not interchangeable with blinds or drapes or sheer curtains. If you’re installing plantation shutters for the first time, you may find yourself full of questions. In today’s blog, let’s answer some of those questions, beginning with…

Will Plantation Shutters Fade?

Plantation shutters are typically made of hand-crafted wood, usually either stained or painted white or cream. But wood materials can begin to fade and typically need to be stained every few years in order to keep looking fresh. Interior plantation shutters are likely to last longer without needing to be refreshed, as they’re not exposed to the elements the way exterior shutters are. But in time, they may still need to be repainted or stained in order to retain their fresh look.

Shenandoah Shutters ensures that the vibrancy of our shutters lasts for as long as possible with our quality crafting. For instance, it often comes down to the type of wood we use. Basswood is porous, so while it makes for perfect wood stained shutters, it’s not ideal for white or cream shutters. For these, we use a denser wood such as yellow poplar. This helps to make the color of painted shutters pop so they stay vibrant for longer. We also help enhance the color of your shutters by offering custom woods such as cherry or mahogany.

Why Wood Shutters?

Though plantation shutters are typically made of wood, they are also sometimes made with a man-made composite material. Though this may be lauded by manufacturers, there’s really no replacing the look and feel of genuine wood shutters. On top of their classic beauty and genuine feel, wood plantation shutters are lighter than poly, composite shutters. They can also be painted or stained to suit your preferences, while composite shutters typically come in a limited, preset color. While wood can be high maintenance on the exterior, it makes for perfect interior plantation shutters.

Where Should Plantation Shutters Be Mounted?

When mounting plantation shutters, you can either go for an inside mount or an outside mount. This is not referring to interior or exterior shutters, but rather whether or not the shutters are within the window frame. For an inside mount, the window must first be measured to ensure that it is square and the shutters will fit. Our patented Softedge shutters are perfect for this kind of mount, because of their subtle frames and hidden tilt wands. They’re designed to fit within the window frame perfectly. An outside mount will allow the window to look fuller, especially when the shutters are closed, so this can be ideal for small windows. 

Can Plantation Shutters Be Customized?

It really comes down to the plantation shutter manufacturer. A quality crafter of plantation shutters will put your vision for your plantation shutters first. We offer multiple styles of plantation shutters, from full height to cafe style shutters, stained or painted shutters, and we also offer shutters that come in custom woods, such as mahogany, oak, or cherry. Because we have so many options — including customization options — you’re more likely to find the plantation shutters you truly want for your home.

Are Plantation Shutters Still in Style?

Plantation shutters have been around in some form or another since the days of ancient Greece. One might have thought that in all that time, they would have become old-fashioned. The truth is, however, that plantation shutters never go out of style. Part of that is being able to adjust to the times. While traditional plantation shutters are still a classic, our Softedge shutters fit perfectly with minimalist home designs, and cafe shutters have a versatility that suits a number of styles. Plantation shutters remain very much in style today and don’t seem likely to go out of it any time soon.

Can Plantation Shutters Suit Windows With Unique Shapes?

Vinyl blinds and drapes can come in a variety of sizes, but only really one shape, which doesn’t particularly showcase your unique window shapes. Plantation shutters, on the other hand, are made to fit to your windows. This is again where custom plantation shutters can come in handy. They can be made for curved windows, circular windows, and more, offering that same lighting filtration while enhancing the style of your windows. 

What Is a “Hidden Tilt Bar”?

Plantation shutters need tilt bars in order to adjust the louvers and let in the proper amount of sunlight. When we talk about our Softedge shutters, one of the perks we discuss is the hidden tilt bar. This means that the tilt bar will not be in the center of the shutters as it often is. Instead, it’s in a panel off to one side of the shutters where it is less obtrusive to the sunlight that filters into the room. 

Still looking for the perfect plantation shutters for your home? Shenandoah Shutters makes beautiful, handcrafted plantation shutters in Richmond, Virginia. Contact us today to learn more or come by our woodshop to see the shutters for yourself.

How Plantation Shutters Can Benefit Every Room Of Your Home

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Plantation shutters are a wonderfully versatile window treatment. With their easy light control and elegant style, plantation shutters are a terrific choice for every room of your home. Here’s a closer look at how plantation shutters can improve the look and feel of your home:

Plantation Shutters for the Living Room

The living room, or family room, tends to be the place where the household gathers to relax and enjoy one another’s company. Living rooms are ideal spaces for entertaining guests, too. Plantation shutters, particularly wooden plantation shutters, look beautiful alongside your home furnishings. They give the living room character while filtering sunlight in and out of the room. 

You’ll also appreciate the privacy that plantation shutters provide living room windows. Stylistically, you can choose from stains and colors for your plantation shutters, but you can also hang curtains above the shutters for an especially unique living room look. Since plantation shutters are so versatile, it’s incredibly easy to decorate around your shutters. Just hang your favorite art pieces and decor without concern about clashing patterns or designs. 

Plantation Shutters for the Kitchen

The café shutter is a favorite choice for kitchens and dining rooms. With the  café shutter, only the lower part of the window is covered by the shutter. The top half is usually covered by a valance. This gives your kitchen the look of an elegant café. 

Other options for plantation shutters in your kitchen include any of a variety of traditional and contemporary looks. Best of all, plantation shutters are easy to clean, so you don’t have to worry about polishing your plantation shutters alongside the dishes. Plantation shutters simply require a light, gentle dusting every so often.

Plantation Shutters for the Bedrooms

Bedroom window treatments are of particular importance in the home. Blackout curtains and shades are favored by homeowners for their ability to block out excess sunlight and promote a better sleep. Luckily, you can get this exact same effect with plantation shutters. In fact, because you use the tilt rod to control the louvers (horizontal slats) of the louvers yourself, you’ll likely get better light control with your plantation shutters. When you do want extra light, you can easily adjust your shutters for just the right amount of natural sunlight. Plus, authentically wooden plantation shutters offer a level of sophistication that simply can’t be matched by blackout curtains. 

Plantation Shutters for the Bathrooms

As long as your hardwood plantation shutters aren’t in direct contact with water in your bathroom, they will both look beautiful and offer many benefits for the bathroom. Since plantation shutters are so easy to clean, they’re a healthy choice for home bathrooms. Wood also tends to have some antibacterial properties, which is why it is such a common choice for food cutting boards. You’ll also love how the functionality of plantation shutters allows you privacy while still offering a relaxing, spa-like oasis thanks to the light control of the shutters. 

Plantation Shutters for the Nursery or Playroom

When designing a space for your child to play in and grow, safety is key. Window treatments with loose cords can pose a strangulation hazard to curious young children. Plantation shutters do not have cords. Other window treatments can also bounce back and hit a child if they attempt to look out of the window. This is common with blinds. Plantation shutters are designed to be opened and adjusted by hand for light control. They are wooden and sturdy. Many parents select plantation shutters for their children’s rooms and play areas for these benefits. 

When it comes to their impact on the design of a child’s room, plantation shutters are also appreciated for the refined appearance that allows them to grow with your child through babyhood to the young adult years. Plantation shutters will look just as fitting on your windows whether they’re surrounded by teddy bears or cutouts from teen magazines. 

Plantation Shutters for Your Home Office

Since the COVID-19 pandemic, home offices have become less of a luxury and more of a home necessity. Proper lighting and privacy is essential for virtual meetings and conference calls. Plantation shutters offers both of these choices, with the added benefit of making your office look polished for when visitors do need to arrive in person. 

The Many Benefits of Plantation Shutters

Plantation shutters have benefits that extend beyond light control and design. This window treatment is also one of the only home upgrades that can actually increase the resale value of your home and boost your curb appeal. Plantation shutters are also energy-efficient, potentially saving you money on heating and air bills throughout the year. 

Plantation Shutters at Shenandoah Shutters

Shenandoah Shutters has been handcrafting custom made, hardwood plantation shutters for more than 30 years. We’re located in Richmond, Virginia, and proudly serve Virginia, Maryland, and Washington, D.C. We have also done work in Delaware and North Carolina.

At Shenandoah Shutters, we can install plantation shutters to fit windows of any size or shape. Beyond the rooms of your home, you may also want to install plantation shutters on a sliding glass door or French door. We know all of the tricks for uncluttered installations that enhance the look and feel of your house. We even invented our own, patented Softedge design. The Softedge is popular for all types of windows, but it is an especially fantastic solution for tilt-ins and casements.

Schedule an Appointment for Your Plantation Shutters

Shenandoah Shutters continues to serve customers during the COVID-19 pandemic. Contact us today for more information on our safety practices and to discuss adding plantation shutters to your home.

The Problem With Blinds – And Why You Should Avoid Them

Problem With Blinds And Why You Should Avoid Them
Problem With Blinds And Why You Should Avoid Them
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Choosing a window treatment is one of the first major design decisions that you make as a homeowner. More than just home decor, window treatments help control sunlight and offer an essential layer of privacy. Since blinds are some of the most popular window treatments to install in a home, you might be surprised to learn that there are actually several disadvantages when it comes to choosing blinds as a window treatment. Take a look at these 5 reasons why blinds should be avoided: 

Blinds Are Less Durable Than Plantation Shutters

Blinds are easily broken and frequently need to be replaced. It’s common for blinds to tear or for the slats to bend. Blind cords, too, often become tangled or damaged, making it difficult to open and close the slats. If you have children or pets, then the risk of accidental damage to your blinds is even higher. Even just pulling too hard on a blind can cause it to snap. 

When it comes to durability, hardwood plantation shutters are an ideal choice. Wood is one of the strongest available materials, and even faux wood blinds never last as long as hardwood plantation shutters.

Blinds Are Not Long-Lasting

Since the typical materials used for blinds, including PVC and aluminium materials, don’t last as long as wood, they’re not the best long-term choice for a home. Plantation shutters, meanwhile, are designed to last decades. While you can purchase wooden blinds, plantation shutters allow you greater light control and energy-efficiency. Plus, unlike blinds or other window treatments, such as curtains, plantation shutters are considered to be a permanent fixture of the home. This is why plantation shutters are one of the few home upgrades that can potentially increase the resale value of your house. 

Blinds Are Not the Best Choice for Children’s Rooms

Sturdy window treatments are especially important for children’s bedrooms and play areas. Not only are blinds easily damaged by young children, but the dangling cords can actually be hazardous. Plantation shutters do not have cords or other dangling materials that could pose a risk to kids. This is why plantation shutters are a favorite of nurseries and children’s bedrooms. Plantation shutters are also sophisticated enough to grow with your child’s changing decor preferences. You can choose neutral or colorful plantation shutters. You could also pair plantation shutters with a decorative valance. 

Plantation Shutters Are More Aesthetically Pleasing Than Blinds

Hardwood plantation shutters give character to the rooms in your home. Wooden furniture has been a staple of home decor for centuries, and wooden plantation shutters easily blend in with wooden furnishings. Stains or cream-colored plantation shutters are stylish options for home decor, but many people also choose from a selection of custom colors. 

The versatility of plantation shutters is unique from blinds in that they are a subtle enhancement to a home. You can certainly make a dramatic statement with plantation shutters through the use of color, surrounding art work, or even layering fabric window treatments, like curtains, over plantation shutters. However, many homeowners enjoy the neutral look of plantation shutters, and this is an elegant look that is really achieved only through the shutters. You can install colorful blinds or wooden blinds, but they never seem to hold the same aesthetic appeal as plantation shutters. When you consider the fundamental differences of plantation shutters vs. blinds, it becomes clear that while blinds are a temporary fix, shutters are a permanent, handcrafted addition that elevates the entire room.

Blinds Attract Dust and Odors

Certain types of blinds attract more dust than others. Pet hair, too, can gather on blinds and make frequent dustings a necessity. Some people complain of odors seeping into their blinds. Luckily, plantation shutters are easy to maintain, and wood is naturally antibacterial, so cleanliness is a breeze. You don’t have to worry about furniture polishes or dusting sprays to clean your plantation shutters. In fact, these cleaning supplies can actually be extremely damaging to your plantation shutters. Instead, you only need to use a soft cloth or lamb’s wool wand to gently wipe the louvers (horizontal slats) clean. 

Plantation Shutters at Shenandoah Shutters 

Shenandoah Shutters has been manufacturing custom made, hardwood plantation shutters in Richmond, Virginia since the 1990s. We provide handcrafted plantation shutters within our service areas of Virginia, Maryland, and Washington, D.C. 

We use American wood of the highest quality, strength, and durability to craft our plantation shutters. We typically use tough basswood for our stained shutters and the softer hardwood yellow poplar for our cream-colored varieties. Some customers choose to request a specialty wood, such as oak, mahogany, or cherry, in order to have their shutters match existing moulding or furniture. You can also request a certain type of tilt rod, as well as choose your desired louver size and shape. 

With plantation shutters, you are able to precisely filter sunlight in and out of your home using the tilt rod. This gives each room of your home the perfect mood or ambiance. 

Shenandoah Shutters can place plantation shutters on French doors, sliding glass doors, arches, and sunbursts. Even if you have an oddly-shaped or unusual window, we can install plantation shutters to fit your needs. Our original, patented Softedge design is a popular choice for contemporary looks, but especially tilt-ins and casements. 

Schedule an Appointment with Shenandoah Shutters

Shenandoah Shutters remains open throughout the COVID-19 pandemic. If you’ve recently bought a new home or are looking to upgrade your home to an existing window treatment, then give Shenandoah Shutters a call today at 1-800-733-1549. You can also contact us online to learn more about our services and to schedule a consultation for plantation shutters.

4 Tips For Enhancing Your Home With Privacy As Well As Beauty

Tips For Enhancing Your Home With Privacy As Well As Beauty
Tips For Enhancing Your Home With Privacy As Well As Beauty
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Privacy has always been a concern for homeowners, but the COVID-19 pandemic has made the quest for privacy even more crucial. When adding important security and privacy features to your home, you want the additions to be as beautiful as they are functional. Using effective landscaping, installing fences or gates, and incorporating high-quality window treatments are all essential for a comfortable and attractive living space. Here are some ideas for enhancing your home’s privacy without sacrificing aesthetics:

1. Add a Fence or Gate to the Outside of Your Home

Fences and gates are well-established tools to make homes more private and secure. Best of all, these structures are designed with both beauty and security in mind. You can find fence options in a variety of materials and designs, including geometric patterns, lattice screens, rustic wood constructions, chic slatted designs, and, of course, the dreamy white picket fence. Many people even choose to simply DIY a privacy fence or garden gate. If you’d prefer something other than a fence, you could install outdoor deck curtains or a sophisticated wall. 

2. Consider Your Landscaping Options 

Landscaping is a unique way to make your home more private. Strategically placed hedges, screen plants, trees, and even topiaries are popular choices to create a living, backyard oasis that feels secure. You can also use hedges and shrubs to surround your front yard, as well. Garden boxes, flowers, and tall plants can combine with shrubbery to further enhance the beauty and privacy of the space. Best of all, this kind of detailed, attractive landscaping boosts your curb appeal. Your curb appeal is the impression that potential buyers have of your home when noticing it from the street. A better curb appeal could mean a more successful home sale later. Landscaping could even increase the value of your home. 

While landscaping is a popular and effective choice for better privacy, it’s important to keep your hedges, shrubs, and other plants neatly trimmed and well-maintained. Properly maintained landscaping will deter trespassers from sneaking onto your property and hiding in any overgrown shrubbery. Some plants grow faster than others and require more frequent maintenance. Consult with your landscaping or lawn care  provider on best practices. 

3. Install Sleek Security Devices

With the rise in smart technology for homes, there is no shortage of subtle, appealing security devices available for use. Video doorbells and newer security cameras can give you added peace of mind without detracting from the aesthetics of your house. Plus, you can also use them to safely monitor kids and pets.

4. Pay Attention to Your Windows

Choosing the right window treatment can make the difference when it comes to enhancing your home with privacy. Of course, you want to use window treatments that are as beautiful as they are private. There are many options for blocking windows from prying eyes, including window films, shades, and blinds, but the best choice is one that combines privacy with quality.  

Plantation shutters are one of the most secure options for private window treatments. This is because plantation shutters are sturdy and long-lasting. They are designed to allow the homeowner complete control over the outside view and natural light entering the home without sacrificing privacy. Amazingly, these historic shutters are so well-designed for privacy that, as the legend goes, King Louis XIV of France would often peek, unnoticed, out of his plantation shutters to admire the women of his court swimming in the ponds of his palatial garden! 

Plantation shutters have long been appreciated for their timeless beauty. Some varieties of plantation shutters are plastic or faux wood, but these varieties are designed to look like traditional, wooden plantation shutters without the same character and durability of authentically wooden shutters. Custom made, hardwood plantation shutters are, like landscaping, known to often increase the value of a home. Wood is the best option for your plantation shutters. 

You can purchase plantation shutters in a variety of styles and colors, including stains. You can even pair curtains with plantation shutters for a dramatic home design  statement. 

Installing Plantation Shutters in Maryland, Virginia, and Washington, D.C

Shenandoah Shutters is located in Richmond, Virginia, within a day’s drive of all of our service areas. We install custom-fitted, hardwood plantation shutters that are handcrafted by skilled woodworking employees. Our plantation shutters are made using high-quality American woods, including yellow poplar and basswood, as well as requested specialty woods that match your moulding or furniture. 

We can build plantation shutters to fit windows of any size or shape. Popular past choices have included plantation shutter installations on French doors, sliding glass doors, arches, triangular panels, sidelights, and sunbursts. We even have our own, patented Softedge design for a more contemporary look and feel. This design conceals the hinges of your plantation shutters when closed and is particularly ideal for tilt-in or casement windows.

Schedule Your Plantation Shutter Appointment with Shenandoah Shutters 

If you’ve recently purchased a new home, or if you’re looking to upgrade your existing window treatment, contact Shenandoah Shutters today. Our plantation shutters are the perfect solution for an elegant window treatment that offers privacy and comfort. We even offer a 100-year limited transferable warranty on the work of our plantation shutters, as well as a 25-year warranty on the silken lacquer finish that is applied to each shutter upon completion. 

Shenandoah Shutters remains open and is carefully providing services throughout the COVID-19 pandemic. Explore our online photo gallery for a glimpse at some of our past projects.

4 Eco-Friendly Reasons To Order Plantation Shutters

Eco-Friendly Reasons To Order Plantation Shutters
Eco-Friendly Reasons To Order Plantation Shutters
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Choosing the right window treatment can make a big difference when it comes to having an eco-friendly home. Plantation shutters are an ideal choice for energy-efficiency and environmental conscientiousness. Are you wondering how to make your home more eco-friendly? Here are a few ways that natural, hardwood plantation shutters can make the difference:

Wood Is a Renewable and Longlasting Resource 

If you’re concerned about the environmental impact of your home, then seeking out a window treatment that is made of wood is essential. Wood, unlike plastic-based materials, is a renewable resource. This means that it can be easily replenished in nature. Wood is also one of the strongest available materials, with a long lifespan and durability. After 100 years or so, when it’s finally time to replace wooden materials, you can be reassured that wood is biodegradable. 

This means that it can break down back into the environment, as opposed to plastic and PVC materials, which cannot. Plastic has its purpose, but this material has negative effects on the environment, as it clogs landfills. If at all possible, it’s more eco-friendly to choose a material like wood. Natural wood also doesn’t release harmful toxins or chemicals, another frequently cited concern surrounding plastics. 

While wood types are sustainable resources, some trees grow faster than others. At Shenandoah Shutters, we prefer to use basswood when crafting richly stained plantation shutters. For our cream-colored plantation shutters, we tend to use yellow poplar wood. Both of these wood types are readily available in nature and come from trees that tend to grow quickly. We often manufacture plantation shutters with requested specialty woods, as well, including well-known hardwoods like oak and cherry. You’ll find that many of these varieties are also easily available and sustainable. In fact, there has even been a recent increase in replacing building materials, like steel, with wood. This is all thanks to its incredible sustainability. 

Plantation Shutters are Energy-Efficient

It is common knowledge that windows and doors are the most common sources of energy loss in a house. Plantation shutters are designed to insulate your home. They naturally keep your house cooler in the summer and warmer in the winter. This effect reduces your need for air conditioning or heaters, while leaving a valuable impact on the environment, as well. Because of their strength, hardwood plantation shutters, in particular, are likely more effective at maximizing temperature control. 

Plus, at Shenandoah Shutters, we custom fit every plantation shutter to your window, so you know that your shutters are appropriately fitted. A properly fitted plantation shutter is another way to reduce your energy consumption and boost the energy-efficiency of your plantation shutters. The end result is often lower heating and air bills. 

Plantation Shutters Allow You to Control Natural Light

Plantation shutters are extremely unique. Instead of fumbling with the light switch, you can use the tilt rod on your shutters to filter sunlight in and out of your home. Plantation shutters allow you to create the perfect mood for any room in your house. With this kind of access to natural sunlight, you might find yourself relying a little less on electric sources of artificial lighting and a little more on the beauty of natural light. Of course, you can also adjust the plantation shutters for less light, too. 

Plantation Shutters Are Low-Maintenance

Most window treatments require some sort of frequent maintenance. For instance, it’s usually suggested to wash curtains every few months, or even sooner if someone in your home suffers from allergies. Curtains are also easy to tear or wear down, which leads to them needing to be replaced. The same is true for blinds, which are easily broken. Shades can tear or need to be spot-cleaned. All of this washing and replacing uses up a lot of energy and resources. 

While curtains can absolutely be paired with plantation shutters if desired, you’ll find that the shutters themselves are extremely low-maintenance. A simple, gentle dusting when needed (and without products) keeps plantation shutters as clean as they are eco-friendly. 

Upgrade Your Home with Plantation Shutters

Shenandoah Shutters has served Virginia, Maryland, and Washington, D.C for more than 30 years. We even have shutters in Delaware and North Carolina. We’re located in Richmond and are within a day’s drive of all of our service areas. When you buy from Shenandoah Shutters, you’re supporting a local business that prides itself on quality and customer service. 

Plantation shutters are timeless and stylish. We handcraft each of our plantation shutters and apply a fine lacquer finish, so that your beautiful wooden shutters can easily blend in with your wooden furniture and mouldings. We offer a 100-year limited, transferable warranty on our plantation shutters, and a 25-year warranty on our silken lacquer finish. 

When planning for your plantation shutters, you can choose from modern or traditional shutter designs, as well as custom colors, stains, and cream-colored options. You choose the size and shape of your louvers (the horizontal slats) and your tilt rod design. We can craft plantation shutters to fit any window shape or size, including oddly-shaped windows, French doors, sliding glass doors, and sunbursts. 

We can even install your plantation shutters using our original, patented Softedge design that conceals the hinges when closed. This is a popular option for all window types, but it is especially a favorite choice for tilt-ins and casements. You don’t have to worry about hanging strips or boxy frames. In fact, at Shenandoah Shutters, we don’t even use a tensioning system! 

Order Plantation Shutters from Shenandoah Shutters Today 

We have remained open throughout the COVID-19 pandemic and continue to carefully provide services. Are you ready to upgrade your home? Contact Shenandoah Shutters today to learn more about installing our hardwood, interior plantation shutters in your home. You can also explore our online photo gallery for a closer look at our work.

Plantation Shutters Are a Boon During the Age of Social Distancing

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The COVID-19 pandemic has changed the way that we view and use our homes. The biggest change might just be the increased demand for a home office. With everything from conference calls and meetings to actual job interviews taking place from home these days, having an appropriate place in the home from which to conduct business is essential. Of course, many of us are also craving a way to bring more of the outdoors to the inside of our homes. Live plants and window treatments that offer controlled sunlight provide a touch of normalcy during a decidedly abnormal time.

A Home for the Social Distancing Era

Plantation shutters are an ideal window treatment during this time of social distancing. These window treatments are timeless and sophisticated, giving your home an updated look during a moment in our lives when we are spending more time at home than ever before. Many of us have chosen to take on home improvement projects during lockdowns and quarantines, and plantation shutters are an added enhancement to the home. 

Beauty aside, plantation shutters are fully functional and allow homeowners to easily filter sunlight in and out of each room in the house. This allows you to create the perfect ambiance for work days, family movie nights, and everything in between. You can also count on plantation shutters to give you an added layer of privacy without sacrificing your view. 

Plantation Shutters Add Value to Your Home

While there are endless upgrades that you can make to your home, plantation shutters are especially unique in that they are one of the few improvements that actually increases the resale value of your home. Throughout the pandemic, the increased time at home has led many people to realize that it is time to downsize or upgrade their living spaces. If you want to add value to your house before you sell, then plantation shutters are the perfect solution. 

Wooden Plantation Shutters Are the Plantation Shutters Of Choice

There are many varieties of plantation shutters on the market today. You’ve likely heard of faux wood, composite, plastic, and other types of plantation shutters. However, each of these plantation shutter types are only designed to imitate the real, natural look of wooden plantation shutters. 

Natural wood is full of character and commonly used in home furnishings. That’s why Shenandoah Shutters only uses authentic, American wood when handcrafting plantation shutters. We believe that plantation shutters should be as gorgeous as they are functional. At Shenandoah Shutters, every plantation shutter is custom made for the windows of your home. You can choose stained or white shutters, or you can even request a custom color. 

Selecting the Wood for Your Plantation Shutters

For stained plantation shutters, we prefer to use basswood. It’s a strong, durable wood that remains lightweight. It is also uniform in color, a rarity among woods. Stained basswood plantation shutters continue to grow richer in color over time, an added bonus of this choice. Plus, basswood trees are fast-growing, making their wood a better option for the environment. 

For cream-colored plantation shutters, yellow poplar is our wood of choice. Like basswood, it’s durable and light, but its color isn’t uniform. Instead, you’ll find a variety of colors in yellow poplar wood, including yellow and white. The result is a vibrant, cream-colored plantation shutter. 

Of course, you’re welcome to request a custom wood for your plantation shutters. Mahogany, cherry, and oak are all equally stunning, popular selections. 

Building a Home Office During COVID-19

Plantation shutters are especially ideal for your home office. When you spend all day in one room of your home, you want and need controlled, natural light. Solid lighting is also essential for high-quality video chats and Zoom meetings. 

Are you wondering what else to include in your home office? A strong, sturdy desk and a comfortable, ergonomic chair are probably the first purchases that you’ll need to make. However, there are other additions that can make your office space more enjoyable. For instance, you might want to include a bookcase, art piece, or live plants. When taking video calls, you’ll also want a clean, respectable background for clients to see. If you have certain posters or graphics related to your work, then you might want to hang those behind you, as well. 

Choosing the Right Plantation Shutters for Your Home

Plantation shutters can be traditional or contemporary. For instance, at Shenandoah Shutters, we offer our original, patented Softedge design to conceal hinges for a more harmonious look to plantation shutters. Our Softedge option is popular for windows of all shapes and sizes, but tilt-ins and casements really benefit from the Softedge. You can also choose other solutions, like a shadowbox for your French door, or a slider for your sliding glass door. 

You can even customize your tilt rod (the rod that controls the movement of your plantation shutters), as well as your louver (the horizontal slats that open and close) size and shape. Shenandoah Shutters offers louvers that are 2.5”, 3.5”, and 4.5”. The difference is in how large of a space you’d like there to be between your louvers when opened. 

Plantation Shutters Are Easy to Clean

The pandemic has led us all to focus intensely on keeping our homes clean and tidy. We want to feel comfortable and safe in our homes. Unlike curtains, plantation shutters do not have to be washed regularly. They also do not collect as much dust as blinds or other window treatments. Wood has even been shown to have antibacterial and antimicrobial properties, which is why it’s a common choice for food cutting boards. 

Because of the fine, lacquer finish that is applied to the wooden plantation shutters from Shenandoah Shutters, you shouldn’t use cleaning solutions on your shutters. This could damage your shutters. Instead, you simply use a lightly damp (not wet) cloth to gently dust your plantation shutters when needed. Plantation shutters are easily cleaned, low-maintenance choices during the era of COVID-19. 

Contact Shenandoah Shutters Today

Shenandoah Shutters remains open for business during the COVID-19 pandemic. Contact Shenandoah Shutters today to speak with one of our consultants about adding plantation shutters to your home in Virginia, Maryland, or Washington, D.C. You can also call us at 1-800-733-1549.