Can Plantation Shutters Help Combat Allergens In Your Home?

If you suffer from allergies, or if you share your home with someone who does, you know that they can be absolutely debilitating. Luckily, there are many ways to make your home a more allergy-friendly place. Your windows are a great place to start. Try the tips below to make your windows — and your overall home — a more comfortable place before allergy season hits:

Take a Look at Your Window Treatment

You might have wondered, can plantation shutters help with allergies? It is true that certain window treatments, such as plantation shutters, are better for combating allergies than others. Curtains and other soft treatments, for instance, attract much more dust than wooden plantation shutters. Plus, plantation shutters are easier to clean and longer-lasting than valances and similar materials. If you are an allergy sufferer, or if you have asthma, then you might benefit from a less dust-prone window treatment. Plantation shutters are a perfect choice. 

Of course, plantation shutters come with numerous benefits beyond being allergy-friendly. Plantation shutters, particularly all wood plantation shutters, increase the resale value of your home, boost your home’s curb appeal, make your home more energy-efficient, and allow you to create the perfect ambiance in each room of your house. Plantation shutters are also a safer choice for nurseries and kids’ bedrooms than blinds, thanks to the lack of dangling cords that could pose a hazard to a small child. 

Clean Often

It won’t be long until spring is here, and with the season change, spring cleaning. Of course, regularly dusting, vacuuming, and mopping can make a huge difference when it comes to reducing your allergy symptoms. When dusting, use a microfiber or other allergy-friendly cloth to help more dust cling to the towel, as opposed to being stirred into the air. 

Regularly washing your bedding and linens in water hotter than 130 degrees fahrenheit can also help with allergy symptom control. This is the temperature that is considered hot enough to kill dust mites, a major source of allergic reactions. If your children have allergies, then it’s a good idea to make sure that their favorite stuffed or fabric toys are also washed regularly at the same temperature. If possible, remember to wash the throw rugs in your home, as well. 

Avoid Mold 

When cleaning your house, another important irritant that you’ll want to keep at bay is mold. Reducing the level of moisture in your home can also help reduce the amount of mold in the house. You can use a thermostat that monitors the humidity level of your home, or you can pick up a hygrometer at the local hardware store. A hygrometer is a tool that measures the humidity level in the house. Ideally, your home’s humidity will be less than 50%. You can buy mold zappers and other dehumidifiers to help keep your home’s humidity levels in the ideal ranges. 

Keep Your Windows in Good Repair

Make sure the caulk or seals around your windows and doors are in good repair. If you notice any cracks, gaps, or damages, then repair them as soon as possible. Properly sealed windows and doors help keep out pollen, dust mites, rodent droppings, and other irritants that make allergies worse. 

Another window tip: As nice as it is to open the windows from time to time, this can often make allergies worse thanks to the pollen circulating in the outdoor air. Instead, it’s usually recommended that home owners with allergies rely on air conditioning or heating systems to lessen the amount of pollen and other allergens from outdoors that could enter homes. 

Consider Other Anti-Allergy Ideas for Your Home

Many people find allergy relief through specialized bedding, including dust-mite resistant pillow and mattress covers. You could also try using an air purifier or HEPA filter to help clear the air in your house, as well as a vent filter. 

If you plan on renovating your home, or if you’re looking to buy a new home, make plans to have less carpet in your house. Carpeted areas may be cozy, but they provide more of a spot for dust mites and other allergens to live than hardwood or tile floors. If you do have carpet, there are many vacuums on the market that are specially designed to help reduce allergy symptoms. Some of these vacuums work on hard flooring, too! 

Upgrading Your Windows with Plantation Shutters from Shenandoah Shutters

Plantation shutters are a stylish, timeless option for any home. Shenandoah Shutters is located in Richmond, Virginia, and we’ve been providing these gorgeous window treatments to our service area in Virginia, Maryland, and Washington, D.C  for more than thirty years. 

At Shenandoah Shutters, every one of our plantation shutters is custom made using the finest American hardwood. You can choose from vibrant whites, rich stains, and custom colors. You can even request a custom wood to match your moulding or home furnishings. 

Plantation shutters give you the unique ability to filter sunlight in and out of your home using the tilt rod of your shutters. At Shenandoah Shutters, since your shutters are custom made, you can even request a certain type of tilt rod, as well as the size and shape of your louvers (the horizontal slats of your shutter that filters the light). 

Have an oddly-shaped window? Wondering about putting plantation shutters on a sliding glass door or French door? We can fit plantation shutters to any window design. In fact, we even created an original, patented design that is ideal for casement and tilt-in windows. Our Softedge design is also a popular choice for homeowners seeking a more contemporary, modern window look. 

Call Shenandoah Shutters Today!

Shenandoah Shutters continues to safely provide plantation shutter services during the COVID-19 pandemic. Are you ready to upgrade your window treatment? Give Shenandoah Shutters a call today at 1-800-733-1549 or contact us online to schedule an appointment for your plantation shutter installation or consultation. 

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5 Tips For Decorating Your Home With Pantone’s 2021 Colors Of the Year

Each year, Pantone announces their official color of the year. The result is a slew of home decor, fashion, and other industries outfitted in the chosen color. 2021 is a unique year, because the color company released two colors to welcome in the new year: Ultimate Gray and Illuminating Yellow. After a difficult year, it seems fitting that Pantone would release a hopeful color combination meant to refresh and rejuvenate. Are you wondering how to use the colors of the year in your own home? Try out some of these tips for a newly inspired space this year:

Accent Your Home with Pops of Yellow

Accent walls are exciting ways to bring a pops of color into living spaces. Painting a single wall vibrant yellow is an especially fun option for the kitchen and breakfast nook, as well as the living room and bedroom. Since yellow is such a positive, friendly color, it would also look lively in a nursery or playroom. 

If you aren’t quite ready to paint an entire wall yellow, an easy way to enjoy the color trend is to incorporate throw pillows, cozy blankets, small rugs, and art pieces into your home. This way, if you get bored of the trend, or if something new comes along, you can easily switch out your yellow pieces. Of course, while yellow seems the most obvious choice for a pop of color, you could also choose to incorporate gray in a similar manner. Think, for instance, of a yellow playroom with a calming gray accent wall, or a series of bright pillows on the sofa with a neutral gray throw blanket. There are endlessly beautiful ways to play around with this color combination. 

While it has a more permanent feel, incorporating furniture pieces is always an option. A bright yellow accent chair, freshly painted bookcase, or gray ottoman, for instance, can bring even more color into the room. 

Brighten Your Linens

Similar to an accent wall or decorative pillows, your linens can also serve as an elegant way to embrace the colors of the year. Outfit your bathroom with vibrant yellow hand towels, or choose new bedding that includes yellow accents. On the flipside, maybe you’d like to incorporate gray linens or bedding, for a soothing effect. You can then decorate with yellow wall accents or rugs. In the dining room, place a yellow tablecloth or gray table runner across the table. Warmer colors, like yellow, work especially well in eating areas. Meanwhile, cool and neutral colors, like gray, can help offset the warmth for a relaxing environment. Your choices depend on the mood that you want in your space. 

Add Live Plants to Your Home

Plants are absolutely wonderful choices for any home. A room feels really put together with a living plant on display, and a bright yellow plant or pot is an effortless way to enjoy the color of the year. Just make sure that you select a plant with sunlight requirements that fit your living space. For most spaces, a low-light plant like bamboo is a terrific choice. Plus, it’s considered lucky, an ideal choice for a new year! 

Take the Colors Outdoors

Since the COVID-19 pandemic, we’ve all found ourselves using every square inch of our homes. Turn your backyard into an oasis with yellow patio furniture and a gray outdoor rug. You could even hang string lights, another popular trend, in anticipation of the warmer spring months to come. 

If you really want to boldly change the look and feel of your home, painting the front or back door in yellow or gray can freshen up your house. Plus, a chic outdoors boosts your home’s curb appeal if you’re looking to sell soon. Another unique option? Paint your mailbox!

Consider Lighting Fixtures

This is a fun way to bring yellow or gray into your home. Consider adding a yellow light fixture, especially a trendy pendant or geometric option, for a pop of color that hangs right from the ceiling. Alternatively, you could hang a gray light fixture for a little added zen. 

Here Comes the Sun: Let the Sunlight In with Shenandoah Shutters

It’s amazing how the lighting of your home can have such a powerful effect on the ambiance of your house. That’s why Shenandoah Shutters has been handcrafting custom made, entirely hardwood plantation shutters for more than 30 years. Located in Richmond, Virginia, we serve Virginia, Maryland, and Washington, D.C customers. We offer a wide variety of plantation shutter options for every home and every window. 

Choose from our timeless, traditional plantation shutters, or experience our original, patented Softedge design that is ideally suited for casement and tilt-in windows. At Shenandoah Shutters, you can choose from our stained or white shutters, as well as custom colors. For our stained plantation shutters, we prefer to use evenly textured basswood, while we select yellow poplar wood to maximize the look of cream-colored shutters. Of course, you can also request a custom wood. Some of our most frequently requested wood options include cherry, mahogany, and oak. 

Plantation shutters are one of the few home upgrades that will add value to your home. Plantation shutters increase the resale value of your home and boost your curb appeal. With their unparalleled ability to allow you to filter in and out the natural sunlight, they are truly an ideal choice for any community, from the seaside to urban areas and beyond. 

Schedule an Appointment for Plantation Shutters from Shenandoah Shutters

Welcome 2021 with custom made plantation shutters from Shenandoah Shutters. We are still safely offering our services during the COVID-19 pandemic. Contact us by phone at 1-800-733-1549 or send us a message online to request a consultation or appointment today. 

Worried about an oddly-shaped window? Curious about putting plantation shutters on a sliding glass door? We’ve got you covered with any and all window needs. Take a look at our online photo gallery or explore our products to get an idea of the variety of projects that we’ve undertaken in the past.

Caring For White Plantation Shutters vs. Stained Plantation Shutters

There are a number of reasons to have plantation shutters installed in your home. They can add privacy to your home, help to protect it from excess heat or drafts, and their easy operation makes them an incredibly convenient window treatment option. They are also a stately and beautiful window treatment option that’s stood the test of time for centuries. Today, plantation shutters can come in a variety of styles — from cafe shutters to traditional and even the patented Softedge shutter. They can also come painted white or stained to retain some of their natural appearance.

But there are different ways for caring for different kinds of plantation shutters, especially when it comes down to painted white shutters or stained plantation shutters. The way to clean them might be different based on the surface alone. In today’s blog, let’s discuss caring for white plantation shutters vs. caring for stained plantation shutters.

The Right Kind of Wood

Caring for white or stained plantation shutters starts with using the right kind of wood to amplify both of those treatments. For instance, when we make white painted shutters, we use yellow poplar wood because it’s less porous than other types of wood. This means less of the paint will be absorbed into the wood, so it will have a fresher color that lasts longer. However, when we make stained shutters, we use the popular choice of basswood, since stained shutters require less concern about the porous nature of the wood. We also use a variety of custom woods like cherry and mahogany. 

Make sure to do your research about the type of wood being used for the type of shutter treatment. Many companies will use basswood for all their shutters, but this is not the best choice for white painted plantation shutters.

Restaining and Repainting

Plantation shutters from Shenandoah Shutters come to you with a fresh appearance that lasts for some time, but eventually, any shutters may need to be painted or stained again. Time and frequent use can begin to wear them down. Fortunately, it’s easy to find new paint and wood stain in order to refresh the look of your plantation shutters. This will not only refresh their appearance but help to protect the natural wood from the elements. 

Paint can be found easily at a local hardware store. Make sure that it’s paint compatible with wood materials, since all of our shutters are made with wood. Paint spray is the easiest option for plantation shutters. Take the shutters off your window and bring them outside, spraying thoroughly. You may need a paintbrush to hand-paint any hard to reach areas or corners. Wait until the shutters are thoroughly dried before replacing them on your windows.

The process of staining the shutters again is a bit more hands-on. You will still want to remove your shutters from the windows and take them outside. From there, take a lint-free cloth and thoroughly mixed stain that you purchased from the hardware store. Rub the stain into the shutters until they are covered. Wait for the shutters to dry.  

Likely paint will last longer than staining, so if you choose stained shutters, keep in mind you may need to refinish them more frequently than you would painted shutters.

Cleaning White Plantation Shutters vs. Stained Plantation Shutters

The good news is that cleaning your plantation shutters is easy regardless of which option you choose. These wood shutters are made with care and made to last, and since they’re installed on the interior of the window, you don’t have to worry about exposure to the elements. Every now and then, you can simply wipe down your shutters with a soft, damp cloth like wool or cotton, to keep dust from building up. 

However, any spills will be more obvious on white painted shutters than stained shutters, because of the contrast in color. Thus white plantation shutters may have to be cleaned more frequently. You should watch stained shutters, though, to make sure that they don’t become neglected and build up dust, which could be a problem for the air in your home as well as the aesthetics of the shutters.

At Shenandoah Shutters, we offer both white plantation shutters and stained plantation shutters, each handmade with expert care in our shop in Richmond, Virginia. Come by and see our showroom for yourself to determine which shutters work best for your home and ask an expert how best to care for your shutters. Contact us today for more information.

Everything You Need To Know About Softedge Shutters

Hardware…while it can be made to look beautiful, it can also be an eyesore! You’ve found the perfect lamp for your room – but how do you hide the cord? Your TV would really look great hanging on the wall – but the tangle of wires hanging down is a problem. We get it! For a home to look beautiful and finished, you want to see the beauty of your item, without the clunky hardware. We’ve taken this line of thinking to a place where you may not even notice your hardware – but you’ll sure notice when it’s not there: your shutters. 

What Is SoftedgeTM Technology?

At Shenandoah Shutters, we have patented SoftedgeTM, a technology that softens the look of your plantation shutters by essentially, hiding the hardware! SoftedgeTM shutters have hinges that are behind the shutter panels — completely hidden — which softens the look of the shutter while gracefully blending the panel into your molding, meaning no boxy frame or hanging strip required for its installation. This allows for a seamless look and lets the beauty of your molding shine. 

Why Choose SoftedgeTM Shutters?

Plantation shutters have been used in homes for centuries, but the Softedge™ shutter is a new and innovative solution you’ll definitely want to explore with one of our consultants! The hinges are fully concealed when the shutters are closed, creating a clean and uncluttered look. Softedge shutters are versatile and work on all types of today’s windows, including “tilt in” and casements. When you choose SoftedgeTM shutters, you’re choosing the quality, innovation, craftsmanship, and excellent service that comes with Shenandoah shutters. Finally, it’s easy to hide the hardware!

This technology is unique to Shenandoah Shutters – we developed and patented it! Contact us today to get your in-home quote!

Why Choose Shenandoah Shutters For Your Plantation Shutters

For centuries, plantation shutters have been the window treatment of choice for homeowners all over the world. Plantations shutters are an incredibly unique window treatment, with numerous benefits, designs, and options for your home. You’ve almost certainly noticed plantation shutters on the windows of your neighbors’ houses, and even in the movies

If you’ve recently purchased a home, or if you’re looking to upgrade your existing window treatment, you might have wondered about your own choices for plantation shutters. Shenandoah Shutters has been handcrafting custom made, hardwood plantation shutters for residences in Virginia, Maryland, and Washington, D.C since the 1990s. We’re located in Richmond, within a day’s drive of all of our service areas, and we’re ready to create custom plantation shutters for your area home. At Shenandoah Shutters, we never use vinyl, plastic, or composite materials. We use authentic hardwood with a distinction that you can see and feel. 

Why should you choose Shenandoah Shutters for your window treatment? Here is how Shenandoah Shutters makes the difference:

Shenandoah Shutters Offers Traditional and Contemporary Styles

When you think of plantation shutters, you likely think of the kind of traditional design that perhaps your parents or grandparents had on their own windows. While traditional plantation shutters are timeless and elegant, Shenandoah Shutters also offers a plethora of design options for modern plantation shutters. 

At Shenandoah Shutters, You Can Choose the Details of Your Plantation Shutters

At Shenandoah Shutters, you’ll choose from rich stains, vibrant whites, and gorgeous custom colors. You can even request a custom wood, like cherry, walnut, oak, or mahogany, to match your moulding or the furniture pieces in your home. You’ll also have the option to choose your shutter’s most important details, including the size and shape of your louvers (the horizontal slats that allow you to filter light in and out of the home), the type of tilt rod, and any specialty options, like our original, patented Softedge design

When it comes to the size and shape of your louvers, you have several options. You can choose from 2.5 inch, 3.5 inch, or 4.5 inch wide louvers. You can also choose from flat or contoured louvers. All of these options are entirely a matter of personal preference. The tilt rod (which controls the movement of the louvers) is also customizable. You might prefer a single tilt rod, which is attached to all of the louvers on the panel of your shutter, or a divider rail, allowing you to control the upper and lower louvers separately. You might even prefer a hidden tilt rod for a thoroughly modern look, or a split tilt rod for an equally clean appearance. 

Shenandoah Shutters Offers Beautiful Solutions for Unique Windows

Harmonious lines are a key part of contemporary architecture. Our Softedge design is another choice for your plantation shutters. With the Softedge, the hinges of your plantation shutters are completely concealed when they are closed, an ideal solution for tilt-in and casement windows. With the Softedge, you don’t have to worry about hanging strips or bulky frames that affect the appearance of your plantation shutters. 

The end result of so many choices are beautiful plantation shutters that are truly customized to not only the size of your windows, but to your own specifications, as well. 

Shenandoah Shutters Can Complete Even the Most Difficult Installations

Do you have an oddly shaped window? Are you wondering how to install plantation shutters on a sliding glass door, sunburst, sidelight, or French door? Shenandoah Shutters knows all of the tricks for a gorgeous installation on even the most unusual windows. 

For doors, we use shadowboxes and sliders to allow your door to maintain both functionality and beautiful plantation shutters. In the past, for especially difficult window treatments, we’ve even used magnets to get the installation just right! At Shenandoah Shutters, you can be sure that no matter the window, we can customize plantation shutters to fit your home’s needs. 

Shenandoah Shutters is Made in America

Shenandoah Shutters is a Veteran-owned and family operated business that is proud to use only the finest American woods and materials. For customers who don’t desire a custom wood type, our go-to choices are yellow poplar and basswood. Yellow poplar is an ideal wood for cream colored shutters, while basswood makes for stunning stains. After we craft your plantation shutters, we handfinish each shutter with a silken, furniture-quality lacquer. 

Shenandoah Shutters Offers a Warranty for Our Customers

Shenandoah Shutters is one of the few plantation shutter providers that offers a warranty on both our work and our gorgeous lacquer finish. We provide a 100-year limited transferable warranty on our plantation shutters, as well as a 25-year warranty on our lacquer finish. This way, all of our customers have peace of mind that the work that we have done on their  shutters is of the absolute highest quality. 

Enjoy the Perks of Plantation Shutters

Plantation shutters are an extraordinary investment for your home. They are energy-efficient, keeping your house warmer in the winter, and cooler in the summer. This often leads to reduced heating and air bills. Plantation shutters also increase the resale value of your home, as well as your home’s curb appeal. Plantation shutters blend in well with any home decor theme or design scheme. They look more like fine furniture than a window treatment, but they don’t require elaborate cleaning techniques. At Shenandoah Shutters, you don’t even have to worry about adjusting the tension, as we don’t use a tension system. 

If you have young children in the home, you don’t have to worry about any cords or dangling fabrics that could pose a safety risk, either. As a result, plantation shutters are a popular choice over blinds or curtains for nurseries and children’s playrooms. 

Start the New Year Off Right with Plantation Shutters from Shenandoah Shutters

Start 2021 off right with elegant plantation shutters from Shenandoah Shutters. We have remained open throughout the COVID-19 pandemic. We are still offering services while following best practices. Call us today or contact us online to schedule a consultation with one of our design consultants for your new plantation shutters. 

You can also explore our online photo gallery of past plantation shutter installations for inspiration!

8 Ways to Decorate Your Windows For the Holidays

As the wind gets chillier and the year winds down, it’s the time of year to bring out your Christmas decorations and fill your home with lights, greenery, and warmth. Your windows are an important part of your home and can add so much beauty during the holidays. Whether you add lights, garland, wreaths, or candles: here are eight ideas to get your windows festive this holiday season. 

Candles

If you have a traditional home with front-facing windows, small candles in the bottom center of the window adds a touch of nostalgia and comfort to your home. I think we can all remember driving in a neighborhood in the cold, snowy evenings and seeing houses lit up. The warmth that exudes is a sight-sensory experience that calms, makes you smile, and welcomes you home. You can get candles that are battery powered, plug-in, and even turn off as the sun rises. They’re a fairly easy way to add a touch of holiday warmth to your curb appeal.

Wreaths

A wreath is a traditional holiday decoration that brings the green of the Christmas tree to the outside of your home. Having matching wreaths in each window adds symmetry and balance to your holiday window decorations. Attach on the back with removable adhesive hooks to avoid window damage, and hand by themselves or hang with a large ribbon and bow. Store these wreaths carefully and hang them up year after year. Match a larger one for your front door to tie it all together.

Lights

Ah, Christmas lights: the ultimate decoration to add that holiday twinkle to your home. Windows make the perfect object to trace with your favorite lights: white, colored, flashing, fading. They’re all beautiful and will make your house exude Christmas charm. 

When it comes to Christmas lights, there are a lot of options and a lot of styles. First, think about what kind of holiday vibe you want your house to give off. Simple, elegant and classic? Go with warm white lights. Fun, modern and youthful? Try out some color lights. Another thing to consider is the architectural style of your home and your windows. If you have some unique windows in your home, like an arched window or stained glass window, try highlighting just that window with lights to really show it off. We suggest using LED lights for safety and removable adhesive strips to preserve your windows. 

Garland

While there are numerous ways to decorate your windows outside, let’s not neglect the interior. A garland is beautiful above a window draped along the frame and curtain rod. There are lots of ways to decorate and customize garland, which is what makes it a fantastic decoration for your window and door frames. Add lights and pinecones for a simple, rustic look, or go all out with ornaments, picks, and colorful lights! You can even make your own garland out of dried oranges, cranberries, popcorn, yarn, ribbon…the possibilities are really endless. Secure over your window frames with nails or removable adhesive strips that won’t damage your paint or stain. 

Change Out Your Curtains

This may seem a bit extra, but when it comes to decorating for Christmas, can you really have too much? If your normal decorating style is more colorful, floral, or less than neutral, changing out your curtains for the holidays could be the finishing touch to your holiday home. Add a deep red or green for elegance, or find a fun Christmas print. A red buffalo check adds a sophisticated Farmhouse flare, especially when paired with a green wreath. 

We love how this looks with white plantation shutters, too. It’s not uncommon to change out sheets, towels, and rugs for holidays — why not change out your curtains as well? Store them in airtight containers or vacuum sealed bags throughout the rest of the year to keep them like new for years to come. 

Fake Snow

This is a fun project to do with the whole family! Fake snow comes in aerosol spray and you can find it in white and crystal and is a fun way to make it look like the weather is frightful – even if it’s not! You don’t have to be an artist to make fake snow look realistic. To create a classic snow look, spray drifts of snow starting in the corners of each window pane and moving outward tapering as you go. Or, if you want a truly winter wonderland effect, you can use stencils – even doilies – to create snowflakes all over your windows. 

Winter Wonderland Window Gallery

If you have children that are maybe too young to operate an aerosol can, washable window markers can be a fun way to let them celebrate their young artistry on your windows. Encourage them to draw snowmen, Christmas trees, stars, snowflakes – or even some favorite winter characters. When they’ve created their masterpieces, go back and add spray snow in the corners to finish it up. 

Tell a Story

No matter what way you decide to decorate your windows, consider telling a story. Windows are the perfect frame for your picturesque holiday decorations. Add hanging stars and a nativity scene to your windows. Place a table in front your windows and set up your Christmas village. Hang picture ornaments from your curtain rods with lights behind them. With a little imagination, some fishing line, and twinkle lights – your windows can tell a story and invite the outside in. 

While Christmas decorations come out once a year, the treatments that you decide for your windows can be simple and traditional and match decor all year long. Contact Shenandoah Shutters today if you’re interested in learning how plantation shutters can transform your home this holiday season.

How To Safely Enjoy the Holidays At Home This Season

The holidays certainly look different this year, but that doesn’t mean that you can’t still enjoy the festivities of the season. From holiday decorating to baking with your immediate household or having virtual calls with long distance friends, there are many ways to safely enjoy the holidays at home. 

Searching for ideas? Take a look at this list for some holiday inspiration during this unprecedented year:

Break Out the Decorations Early

Filling your house with holiday cheer can make you feel happier. In fact, this year, many people are choosing to deck the halls as early as possible in search of a happiness boost after a particularly difficult year. 

So, go ahead and put out your favorite holiday decorations ahead of schedule. Get creative and put together a winter wonderland in the front yard or create a Christmas village in the living room. Even just adding a themed outdoor rug, bright seasonal wreath, and potted poinsettias to your front porch can boost your spirits — and your curb appeal. 

Decorating can be a family activity, too. Have the kids help hang ornaments or string garland. Put on some holiday music, bake treats, and really soak up the season at home. 

Bring the Scents of the Holidays Inside with a Simmer Pot 

A simmer pot fills your home with the familiar scents of the season. Fill a saucepan with water and set it to simmer, while adding your favorite holiday spices and fruits to the pot. Let it simmer as the smells fill the air. Cranberries, pine needles, sliced apples, cinnamon sticks, and vanilla are popular varieties that will have your home smelling like the holidays in no time. Simmer pots are also a great tactic when you’re hosting an open house to sell your home. They make your home instantly feel cozy and welcoming. 

Organize Dinners with Extended Family and Friends Over Video Chat

The CDC has recommended against indoor gatherings outside of your immediate family this holiday season. However, you can still have a memorable holiday by hosting group dinners and activities over video chat platforms like Zoom, Facetime, and Skype. You can even make the dinner feel more traditional with a beautiful table cloth, warmly lit candles, and a centerpiece. Encourage others on the call to have fun with their decor, too! After dinner, play online games, decorate cookies, or watch a favorite holiday movie while chatting together. 

Make Holiday Crafts with the Kids

Holiday crafts are always a hit, but they can be an especially terrific escape in a year of virtual school and so much extra time at home. Go old school and have the kids make homemade decorations, like colorful chains and snowflakes out of paper. You could also make memorable, keepsake handprint crafts or fingerprint art. If you celebrate Christmas, consider letting each child or grandchild decorate their own miniature Christmas tree. They’ll love having their own tree in their bedroom to enjoy as the season progresses. You could also make a family wreath together to hang in the main room of the home. 

Experience the Holidays via Drive-Thru

Driving around your neighborhood with your immediate family to enjoy the holiday lights is a safe, fun way to feel the spirit of the holiday season. Driving through holiday light displays put on by local communities can also be low-risk ways to experience some holiday cheer. Some towns are even bringing back drive-in movies and other socially distant, outdoor activities that are much safer than indoor experiences. Take a look at your city’s website for information on special events being planned or modified with the pandemic in mind. 

Volunteer for a Non-Profit

2020 is a great year to contribute to your hometown. Use the Internet to browse local organizations who could use your help this holiday season. Sewing masks, stocking food pantries, delivering meals, or contributing to a group’s shopping wish list can make a huge difference in your community. 

Planning Home Improvements This Holiday Season?

If upgrading the house is on your to-do list this season, contact Shenandoah Shutters. We’re located in Richmond, Virginia, and provide custom made, hardwood plantation shutters to residents in Virginia, Maryland, and Washington, D.C. In fact, we’ve been proudly serving this area for 30 years. 

At Shenandoah Shutters, our plantation shutters are handcrafted using the finest American woods, including yellow poplar, basswood, and specialty woods, such as cherry and oak. Your shutters will look less like a window treatment and more like a piece of fine furniture. They blend elegantly into any design scheme or home style. You can choose from rich stains, vibrant whites, or custom colors. You can even choose from a variety of plantation shutter styles, including contemporary and modern designs. 

The Benefits of Plantation Shutters for Your Home

Plantation shutters aren’t just a beautiful holiday upgrade for your windows. They also come with long-lasting benefits. Plantation shutters are one of the few changes you can make to your home that actually increases its resale value. Plantation shutters never go out of style. Having them on your windows boosts your curb appeal and entices future buyers to consider your home. 

Families with young children appreciate plantation shutters for their safety profile. Unlike blinds, there are no dangling cords or strings on plantation shutters. While you can certainly pair curtains with plantation shutters, they are gorgeous alone, preventing families from having to worry about loose fabrics, either. 

The winter is a fantastic time to install plantation shutters, because these window treatments are also energy-efficient. In the winter, they keep the warmer air inside of the house. In the summer, they keep the cooler air inside. The result is often lower heating and air bills over time. 

Make an Appointment for Plantation Shutters with Shenandoah Shutters

Are you considering plantation shutters? Want to learn more about our products? Give Shenandoah Shutters a call today at 1-800-733-1549. We’ve remained open throughout the COVID-19 pandemic and are prepared to safely serve your family during this time.

How To Join the Modern Kitchen Trend

There are many different ways to redesign your kitchen, but the modern kitchen trend, in particular, is quickly on the rise this year. Since the COVID-19 pandemic has us spending so much more time at home, it isn’t surprising that many of us have chosen to renovate our kitchen spaces. The modern kitchen look is similar to the equally popular farmhouse trend with its clean lines, sleek style, and sophisticated appearance, but there are still clear differences between the two trends. 

Are you planning to renovate your kitchen for the new year? Here are some ideas to join in on the modern kitchen trend:

Embrace Marble, Quartz, or Granite Countertops

When you think of a countertop material, quartz may not be the first thing that comes to mind, but this material is a beautiful, effective choice for modern kitchen designs. Quartz is a non-porous material, which means that liquids won’t be able to permeate the surface and stain your counters. This also helps prevent bacteria growth and generally encourages a cleaner counter. Quartz is also extremely durable and comes in a variety of colors and looks, including the look of natural stone. It’s common for quartz to be designed to mimic the look of a marble countertop, a particularly popular and luxurious option for modern kitchens. 

Granite is another popular option for modern kitchen countertops. Granite countertops are gorgeous and have their own character. However, it’s important to remember that, unlike quartz countertops, granite countertops are porous (as are marble). This means that you’ll have to use a sealant on the countertop as often as recommended by the product that you use. You may need to reseal your countertop every few months or every few years, depending on the sealant that you use. Although they might be high maintenance, granite countertops are still some of the most popular countertops being chosen for modern kitchens. 

Choose Simple Colors

Neutral colors, including black, white, gray, and earthy brown, as well as accent colors like silver and gold are popular choices for modern kitchens. The great thing about these colors is that they are all extremely versatile. Practically any decorations look terrific in a neutral kitchen space. You can also add pops of color to the space with greens and navy blues, or install a bold, geometric backsplash. 

Some homeowners enjoy a combination of modern kitchen and farmhouse design. To achieve this, you can add elements of both, including shiplap and vintage accents. 

Explore Sleek Design Choices

Current modern kitchen trends include stainless steel appliances, cabinets and drawers without handles, geometric shelving, gold fixtures, pendant lamps, and a decluttered appearance. Minimalism is a growing choice for many families, and this is especially seen in the modern kitchen design. 

Using natural materials, like wood, are also classic choices that you’ll find in this kitchen design. Even beyond its use in countertops, marble is another sleek option that is common in modern kitchens. Rounded marble kitchen islands (and rounded kitchen islands in general) are incredibly trendy choices for modern kitchens this year. 

Invest in Storage and Organization

The clean, minimalist look of modern kitchens is an essential part of its design. Investing in hidden and pull-out storage, as well as containers for carefully organized drawers, will make a huge difference in the look and feel of your modern kitchen. Some homeowners even install light strips in cabinets and drawers, special spice racks, glass door refrigerators, or sliding cooktop covers for the ultimate sleek, minimalist appearance. 

Upgrade Your Kitchen Windows

Good lighting will make your modern kitchen feel more spacious. Cafe shutters, where only half of the window is covered with a plantation shutter, look beautiful in modern kitchens. You can place a valance or curtain over the top of the window in an earthy or neutral color, like sage, for a look that matches perfectly with your modern kitchen. Of course, general interior plantation shutters also look stunning alongside a modern kitchen design. All natural, wooden plantation shutters pair beautifully with the neutral colors, marble designs, and sleek aesthetics of modern kitchens. They also allow you to filter just the right amount of sunlight in and out of your kitchen, resulting in an airy, inviting cooking space. Plantation shutters give every room of your home just the right ambiance for your mood. 

If you ever decide to sell your home, plantation shutters will even add value to your kitchen and your overall house. Plantation shutters increase the resale value of your home and will appeal to potential buyers. The adjustable lighting created by plantation shutters also makes for stunning listing photographs, a key part of selling a home. 

Looking to Install Plantation Shutters in Your Home This Year?

Shenandoah Shutters remains open during the COVID-19 pandemic. We’re located in Richmond, Virginia, and have been serving Virginia, Maryland, and Washington, D.C for the past 30 years. We pride ourselves on crafting custom made, real hardwood plantation shutters using only the finest American woods. When you choose plantation shutters from Shenandoah Shutters, you’ll be able to choose the color or stain, as well as the style of your plantation shutters. We offer traditional and contemporary options, including our innovative, original Softedge design. Each shutter is finished with a gorgeous, silken lacquer finish that blends perfectly with your wooden furnishings. 

Plantation shutters are excellent choices for homes of all styles and designs. Families with small children will appreciate the lack of dangerous cords or loose materials that are so common in other window treatments, like blinds and curtains. Plantation shutters are also energy-efficient. The way that plantation shutters are made helps them insulate your home in a way that keeps it cooler in the summer and warmer in the winter. Homeowners who install plantation shutters often report lower heating and air bills as a result. 

Make an Appointment for Your Plantation Shutters Today

Contact Shenandoah Shutters to learn more about our shutters and to schedule an appointment for your home. You can also view our gallery for a look at our past installations. 

Dear Customers – A Letter From Marcia

Marcia has been a dedicated member of the Shenandoah Shutters team since May of 1997 in the areas of Richmond, Williamsburg, Charlottesville and Fredericksburg. Her wonderful support and spirit has helped to shape both the team and the company day in and day out – in so many positive ways. 

Recently, Marcia has reflected that she too, has been greatly, and positively affected by all of the customers that she has come into contact with over the years; and she wanted to take a moment to share. In the following letter, Marcia has a special message (and a few funny tales) dedicated to all of the customers who have made working at Shenandoah Shutters a joy for her… 

A Letter from Marcia

THE FOLLOWING IS NOT A “GOODBYE”. Though in reading this, you may wonder if that’s what I am doing. It feels good to be grateful. Over the years, you folks have filled my heart. I simply wanted to wear that heart on my sleeve and broadcast as far as I can with my message. 

To my customers and the ones who got away; 

You deserve a most grateful Thank You. You are the heart of my business and my day.

I am thankful to each and every front door opened to allow me into your household. It’s been noted of me in my work life that I am not out selling shutters, I’m out making friends. I walk away from my life for a while behind your door. I can walk in with a heavy heart and you take me to a happy place making my own cares fall away and it’s just your smiling face, your graciousness, warmth and welcome into your day.

We have laughed together, cried together, and complained together, all that binds us as humans doing the best we can. You offer me coffee, a bottle of water, a soft drink. How kind. One day there was a most delicious tomato sandwich fresh from the garden! (Thank you, Dave.)

If at the end of our visit, or a later day, you hand me a check or credit card and a trust, it is accepted most gratefully. In fact, behind me are many others who appreciated that trust as well. The best though is how you receive me, a complete stranger into your safe place, your home. You always make me happy to be there. Thank you.

In your entryway often is the family canine. How many favorite toys have I been presented with when I arrive! Sometimes even years later, and you will never know this, but I may pass your house and think of that family member. 

Thank you to that customer who retrieved my shoes after the family Labrador had stolen them while I stood barefoot in a bathtub measuring a window. Recently a hound brought me his empty food dish. These little funny instances give my workdays a happy soul.

Thank you to all the kitties who have decided to stage a sit-in on my paperwork while I write a quote. You cat people know this happens! Cats can be pretty opinionated and cynical, believing their cuteness deserves ruling the moment!

“We don’t buy things with money. We buy them with hours of our lives.” How true. I did not write that truth, but it did remind me to thank you for your time. And that when our visit ended, you felt you had received the pleasing anticipation of the right solution you sought. That your spent dollars of time was filled with help, that I listened and heard what would make all your expectations realized in the end.

This may be the longest thank you note ever written. Considering I have 23 years of “thank you” to dear people, it doesn’t quite equal all the heartfelt behind it. Sad that most will never see this to know how they made a difference in a life.

I don’t have a “ruler” that measures the depth of my gratefulness, but I can assure you the roots are deep.

Sincerely,

Marcia B.   

7 Tips For Decorating and Enjoying Your Home This Fall

Fall certainly looks different this year, but the coronavirus pandemic doesn’t mean that you can’t enjoy all that autumn has to offer. In fact, this is the perfect time to make your home as inviting and cozy as possible. Take a look at these tips for fun fall decorating and holiday celebrating this year:

Decorate Your Yard with Fall Favorites

Since most hayrides and special events are out of the picture this year, bring the fall fun to your own yard. Outfit your front porch or yard with pumpkins, gourds, and scarecrows. Hoping to sell your home in the next few months? A beautiful set of mums or a stylish seasonal wreath will do more than just bring you joy — it will also boost your curb appeal, which will attract more potential buyers. 

Build a Fall Photo Backdrop

The loss of the family photo opportunities that go along with fall traditions can feel disappointing. Snap a fresh Instagram picture by building an autumn photo op right in your yard! You can use straw bales, corn stalks, DIY signs with your last name painted on them, and other ideas to create the perfect setting for a beautiful photograph. You could even make your own mini pumpkin patch by scattering pumpkins around the set-up! Maximize the experience by having everyone dress up in their Halloween costumes. 

Make Your Home Into a Haunted House

The CDC has issued strict guidelines for Halloween this year, but you can still experience the spooky holiday at home. Encourage the kids to help you add ghoulish decorations to the yard and porch, as well as indoors. Giant inflatable characters or a fake graveyard on the front lawn can make this year feel a little more normal. The best thing about Halloween is that you can get as creative as you’d like with the decor. Wondering what the hottest trend is this year? Halloween trees! Artificial trees in colors like orange and black are all the rage in stores and on social media right now. Pick up some Halloween ornaments, pumpkin lights, or knick-knacks and have a blast decorating a Halloween tree with your family. 

Another favorite Halloween concept this year is the candy chute. This unique idea involves decorating a long cardboard tube or PVC pipe and safely attaching it to something in your front yard, like the handrail of your front steps. You can then use tongs or consistently sanitized hands to drop pieces of candy through the makeshift chute and into the bags of excited (and socially distant!) trick-or-treaters. 

Have Fun with Your Windows

Windows easily lend themselves to decorating ideas. Kids will love adding pumpkin decals, creepy fake boards, and scary posters to the windows. Just make sure that none of the decorations will hurt the glass or your plantation shutters. Window projectors, themed garlands, and terrifying spider webs are other exciting ideas for fall decor. 

Enjoy the Details

There are so many little ways to add fall and Halloween decor to your home. Themed throw pillows and blankets will liven up your sofa, while a cheerful autumn display on the mantle is a gorgeous way to celebrate the season. Creative letter boards with fun fall expressions are popular home decor pieces and can be part of your display table or hung up on their own. Letter boards and display tables look especially beautiful in the entryway. 

Spice Up Your House 

A longtime fall favorite, simmer pots are an all-natural way to make your home smell like fall. While there are many ways to make a simmer pot, one of the most common ways is to fill a pot a little less than halfway with water, and then let it heat on your stove. As it’s heating, you can add enjoyable autumn scents and spices, including cinnamon, fall fruit slices, and drops of vanilla. The delicious fall smells will soon begin wafting through your house. Just be sure to watch that pot — you don’t want the water to evaporate!

Looking for a smell that lasts a little longer? Most stores sell cinnamon or pumpkin scented brooms this time of year! Not only do they smell great, but they fit right in with your other decorations. 

Invest in a Fire Pit

If you’re going to host a small gathering this fall, then having that gathering outdoors is a recommended way to reduce the spread of COVID-19. A fire pit will let small groups of family and friends enjoy the fall season as they warm by the fire, make s’mores, and enjoy conversation. Of course, safety precautions such as masks are still recommended by the CDC. 

Upgrade Your Window Treatment This Fall with Plantation Shutters

Fall is one of the best times of year for upgrading your existing window treatments. Just bought a home or planning on selling one? Plantation shutters are beautiful options for your windows that will actually increase the resale value of your home. With plantation shutters, you are able to control the amount of sunlight that comes into your home. The result is just the right ambiance no matter the season. Plantation shutters are also safer for families with young children than blinds or curtains, as there are no dangerous cords or tempting materials to pull down. 

At Shenandoah Shutters, we build custom plantation shutters by hand in Richmond, Virginia. Our plantation shutters are crafted using only the finest American woods. Nothing is made with faux wood, vinyl, or other imitations. We finish each piece with a high-quality, silken lacquer finish. 

We’ve been in business for 30 years and pride ourselves on providing elegant plantation shutters to Virginia, Maryland, and Washington, D.C residents. Customers choose from rich stains, vibrant whites, or custom colors for their plantation shutters. They can also explore certain details and innovations, like louver size or our original, patented Softedge design.

Shenandoah Shutters remains open during the COVID-19 pandemic and continues to install plantation shutters while taking precautions. Contact us today to ask questions or schedule an appointment with one of our design consultants.