There are window coverings, then there are plantation shutters. A favorite of many thanks to their versatility and classic choice, this is the one window covering that can actually increase the value of your home!
Before you start shopping, though, it may help to know a bit more about the terminology behind these amazing choices. This glossary can help.
Bottom Rail: This piece sits at the bottom of the shutter to help finish it off.
Café Style: This type of shutter covers just the lower half of the window. You get plenty of light along with some measure of privacy.
Frame: Each shutter panel has a frame that surrounds it. It’s this part of the shutter that is typically mounted to the window.
Full Height Shutters: If you’re looking for shutters that will cover the whole window, this is it. This choice always comes with a mid rail to help hold things together.
Mid Rail: These run horizontally between both the top and the bottom to add some strength to the shutters themselves. They also let you control the slats at the top and the bottom.
Mouse Hole: This is the dip you might see where the push rod rests after the slats have been shut.
Panel: This is the main part of the shutter. It’s typically hinged so it can open, and it will often contain moveable slats so you can let the light shine in.
Push Rod: This thin vertical bar is connected to the front of the slats. It helps you open and close them. There are hidden push rods in some plantation blinds, and it provides a contemporary look.
Slats: These are the horizontal pieces in the shutter. They usually tilt and rotate to let the light shine in, and they come in a number of different sizes. Most are 2.5 inches, but you can get them as large as 4.5 inches.
Solid Shutters: These are top to bottom shutters without the slats. They function almost as a door for your windows, and they can sometimes come as partially or fully solid.
Stiles: These are vertical rails that run on both sides of the panel.
Tiered Shutters: These cover your whole window, but the top and bottom pieces are almost completely independent of one another. Think about a traditional Dutch door where both the top and the bottom pieces open independently, and you have a picture of tiered shutters in your mind.
Top Rail: This piece sits on top of your shutters to help finish it off.
Shutters look beautiful in almost any home, but they will have to be custom made to ensure they fit your windows. Learn more about your shutter options now.