Are you looking to add charm and elegance to your home’s windows? Plantation shutters are a timeless and versatile window covering that can transform any room. With their clean lines, adjustable louvres, and natural materials, plantation shutters offer beauty, functionality, and privacy all in one package.
While plantation shutters are an investment, you can save money by purchasing them online and installing DIY plantation shutters yourself. This guide will walk you through everything you need to know to buy the perfect plantation shutters online and install them like a pro. Let’s dive in!
Choosing the Right Shutters for Your Home
When shopping for plantation shutters online, you’ll first want to decide which rooms you’ll install them in. This will determine the type of shutters you need.
Living Rooms and Bedrooms
Look for basswood or poplar shutters for main living areas like living rooms, family rooms, and bedrooms. Both offer durability at an affordable price point. Basswood has a smooth, uniform texture, while poplar has varying grain patterns that add visual interest.
Consider 2.5-inch louvres for the best light control and privacy. And remember decorative touches like shaped tops or trim accents to complement your home’s style.
Kitchens and Baths
Kitchens and baths require moisture-resistant shutters that can handle splashes and steam. Polymer (faux wood) shutters are a great option as they won’t warp from moisture.
For kitchens, narrow 1.5-inch louvres allow light in but keep cooking messes hidden. In bathrooms, widely spaced 3.5 or 4-inch louvres provide privacy while allowing air circulation to prevent mould and mildew.
Media Rooms and Offices
Blackout privacy is key in media rooms and offices. Look for shutters made from solid wood like red oak or poplar instead of basswood. The thicker wood prevents light leakage.
Pair with tighter louvre spacing (1.5 to 2 inches) and vinyl, foam, or Mylar strips along the edges to block outside light.
Measure Carefully for a Custom Fit
Once you’ve picked your materials, it’s time to measure. Accurate window measurements ensure a perfect custom fit and flawless operation. Use a metal tape measure and follow these steps:
Width
Measure the width of the window frame’s top, middle, and bottom. Use the narrowest width.
Height
Measure from the top of the window frame to the sill in three places—left, right, and middle—and use the most extended length.
Depth
Measure the depth of the window frame from the inside edge to the outside edge.
Jot down all the measurements, including window type (double hung, casement, etc). Repeat for each window you’re covering.
Order Your Shutters with Confidence
When buying shutters online, you’ll typically order each window covering as a separate product.
Select your shutter measurements, style, materials, louvre size, and any custom upgrades on the product page. Add each window shutter to your cart before checkout.
Look for Made-to-order options that provide fully customised shutters to your specifications. Stay clear of vague stock or off-the-shelf options.
And don’t worry – most online shutter stores have user-friendly design tools to walk you through ordering. Finally, look for free shipping and satisfaction guarantees for peace of mind.
Prepare the Window Frame for a Flawless Fit
With your custom-cut shutters on the way, it’s time to prep the windows. This ensures a smooth installation with no surprises.
First, make sure the window frames are clean and in good condition. Use painter’s tape to cover hardware and handle protrusions that could obstruct shutter operation.
Check that windows open and close freely. Remove curtains, blinds, or old coverings to have clean access to the window frame.
Use a level to check that the frame is plumb and square. Install shims if needed to create a level surface for mounting the shutters.
Finally, mark the exact centre of each window frame for alignment during installation. Prepping ahead of time avoids headaches down the road.
Install Your Shutters Securely and Properly
When your shutters arrive, open the package and inspect them for damage or defects – check louvres, hinges, and moulding. Use a stud finder to locate studs for secure mounting.
Follow the included installation guides closely. Mount the frame front first using long screws driven into the window header and studs. Use shims if needed to straighten the frame.
Attach hinges securely according to the instructions. Most models use three hinges – two on top and one on the bottom. Align panel frames carefully before driving screws.
Ensure panels align at the centre, louvres operate smoothly, and the frames close correctly without light gaps. Add screws in the remaining pre-drilled holes.
Finish by adjusting clearance and tightening tension screws following the manual. Test operation and enjoy your new shutters!
Enjoy Your Beautiful, Functional Shutters for Years
That’s all it takes to save money and install DIY plantation shutters online retailer. When properly measured, ordered, and installed, plantation shutters from e-commerce stores are just as durable and well-fitting as ones purchased locally.
Follow these tips, and soon, you’ll enjoy the elegance, soft natural light, and privacy of shutters custom-fit to your windows. So go ahead – sit back and relax in your new shuttered serenity. The online ordering process is easy, painless, and worth it!
