Shutters: What they are, their purpose and their types

Shutters are window coverings, which are available in different designs. Check out this guide on the types of shutters and their applications.

Shutters are typically overlooked when discussing window coverings in favour of blinds and curtains. Window shutters are a flexible option that adds warmth, protection, and a touch of opulence to your home. In the broadest sense, a shutter is a piece of item that covers an entrance and limits the amount of light that enters an area. Usually, a window or door is blocked by a manually operated panel, cover, or other sorts of screen.

Depending on the style, the shutters are offered in a variety of colours and materials, including wood, MDF, and vinyl. There are various shutter designs, but it can be difficult to comprehend how they differ and what advantages they each offer, so here is a brief explanation of each design.

See also: Window blinds designs: Types of window furnishings for modern homes

 

Shutters: Purpose

Shutters can be used for a variety of purposes, such as regulating the amount of sunlight that enters a space, providing privacy, security, protection from the elements or unwelcome intrusion or damage, and enhancing a building’s beauty.

 

Shutters: Types

01. Full-length/height shutters

Full-height shutters cover the entire height of the window in a single, continuous unit from top to bottom. Positionable louvres, which are timeless and elegant, let light in while protecting privacy. Full-height shutters can be used in most rooms, but they make a statement in spaces with tall windows like this living room or in areas with a lot of glass that would work well for a row of shutters, like an extended living area.

 

Shutters: What they are, their purpose and their types

Source: Pinterest

 

02. Tier-on-tier shutters

Tier-on-tier shutters have upper and bottom pieces that may be opened separately from one another, offering you the most flexibility in terms of privacy and light. Tier-on-tier shutters are perfect for a study, where the lower half can block prying eyes from seeing the computer on display and the upper half can be left open to let enough light in while you work. They can be used throughout your home, including in bathrooms and bedrooms, where you need to strike a balance between privacy and light needs.

 

Shutters: What they are, their purpose and their types

Source: Pinterest

 

03. Café-style shutters

To retain seclusion and permit light into the room, café style shutters are installed on the lower portion of the window. This kind of shutter is perfect for front-facing windows that are overlooked since it keeps people from peering in while still letting light in, as well as for spaces where you need to provide the appearance of solitude even though they are not overlooked, like bedrooms or bathrooms on higher floors. Additionally, they give your home personality and charm and are a wonderful way to express your style.

 

Shutters: What they are, their purpose and their types

Source: Pinterest

 

04. Solid shutters

Solid shutters consist of a single solid panel and are the more conventional type of shutter. You have the freedom to design the precise look you desire for your home because they are available in full height, tier-on tier, or combinations. Solid shutters, especially full-height ones, are the best option for a bedroom because of their inherent ability to block out light.

 

Shutters: What they are, their purpose and their types

Source: Pinterest

 

05. Tracked shutters

Tracked shutters are necessary to suit French, patio, or bi-folding doors firmly without impeding their opening mechanisms. A tracked shutter is the best option to enable you to transition effortlessly between inside and out, whether you have conservatories, additional living spaces, or dining rooms with patios for simple al fresco eating.

 

Shutters: What they are, their purpose and their types

Source: Pinterest

 

06. Bay window shutters

Although bay windows are a lovely addition to living rooms and bedrooms, they may be challenging to dress. Select bay window shutters for a classy, classic appearance. Your windows’ shapes are nicely complemented by the contour of this shutter design. These come in a variety of styles to fit your needs and are perfect for any room with a bay window.

 

Shutters: What they are, their purpose and their types

Source: Pinterest

 

07. Shaped window shutters

Both windows and window shutters come in many varieties. Make a statement with curved shutters if your house has unusually shaped windows. Arch windows, porthole windows, and many other types of windows can be fitted with specially created louvres and distinctive mouldings.

 

Shutters: What they are, their purpose and their types

Source: Pinterest

 

08. Louvred shutters

Since louvred shutters are arguably the most traditional style of the shutter, they look particularly lovely on old residences. Louvred shutters were quite practical in the days before air conditioning, which is one explanation for this. The slats allowed homeowners to enjoy a breeze without letting bugs inside.

However, because louvred shutters can serve as a sort of transitional design element, even modern residences incorporate them. They have horizontal slats that are alternately wide and narrow. If you decide on louvred shutters, using a durable composite or aluminium material is advised. The slats on louvred shutters are quite sensitive, and wood shutters are more prone to cracking.

 

Shutters: What they are, their purpose and their types

Source: Pinterest

 

FAQs

Which material is best for shutters?

Wood is the most popular material for solid window shutters. The natural characteristics of wood, such as its grains, textures, and colours, can give your shutters an authentic appearance and feel befitting of a traditional and fashionable home. Wood is also a material that is noticeably durable.

Are shutters more expensive?

Shutters are often four times as expensive as blinds for windows of the same size, even though they are not necessarily the most expensive option when it comes to window coverings (other shade categories can cost as much or even more). Undoubtedly, shutters are a wise investment.

Got any questions or point of view on our article? We would love to hear from you.

Write to our Editor-in-Chief Jhumur Ghosh at jhumur.ghosh1@housing.com

 

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