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Vinyl
Shutters Vs. Wood Shutters
Interior window shutters have always been one of the most universally
popular window treatments available. They maintain their value better
than any other type of window covering. Window shutters -- also
called plantation shutters -- are not only attractive and
enhance your home's curb appeal, but their ability to regulate light,
insulate, and fit in to almost any decorating scheme makes window shutters
virtually unsurpassed.
Today, indoor shutters are more popular than ever. So
it is no wonder that many new manufacturers are trying to grab a
piece of the shutter business. Most notably is the introduction
of vinyl compound shutters. There are some intriguing advantages
over traditional wooden shutters. But beware; many of them are just
cheap shutters at a cheap price. There are numerous differences
among the major brands. This article will help you decide whether
interior wood shutters or vinyl shutters are right for you, and inform you of the
critical differences.
Wood
Shutters Are
the Real Thing
There are several reasons why you should avoid vinyl
shutters altogether. Some people simply prefer real wood, just as
they prefer clothing made of cotton or wool instead of synthetics.
For a warm, authentic, traditional look, wooden shutters are an excellent choice.
There are some limitations of vinyl window shutters. They are usually made
in only white and off-white. So you can not precisely color match.
Staining is obviously impossible. There are currently no manufacturers
that make vinyl shutters for arched, angled, and other specialty
shaped windows. Most interior vinyl shutters are cheaply made with inferior
components and poor workmanship, and should be avoided simply for
that reason despite their lower cost.
A
Vote for Vinyl Shutters
Quality vinyl shutters are definitely worth considering.
The inherent advantages over wood shutters are numerous. The best
indoor vinyl shutters
cost less than custom wooden window shutters. The most important advantages
are practical in nature. Vinyl interior shutters will not crack, peel, fade,
or deteriorate like wood. They are perfect for humid areas like
solariums, shower enclosures, near Jacuzzis and sinks. Since they
are moisture resistant they are an excellent choice near the swimming
pool or even the ocean's corrosive saltwater. They are inherently
flame-retardant and insulate better than indoor wood shutters. They are
easier to clean and those, which are solid color impregnated, will
not show dents or scratches. That makes them perfect for a child's
room. Their manufacturing time is usually half of a true custom
wooden shutter.
How to Choose Vinyl Shutters
• Look
for these important features when comparing the different brands:
• Aluminum
reinforcements throughout all major stress points, especially
on the hinge side of all panels to prevent warping and "vinyl
creep."
• Cellular
(hollow) louvers, to maximize insulation (hollow louvers insulate
better than solid louvers due to the air).
• Ability
to adjust the tension of louvers to prevent floppy louvers.
• Made
from a high quality outdoor grade compound for durability.
• Opaque
louvers and rails. Some are translucent, which makes them appear
less like wood, and allows too much light to escape into the room.
• Thick
wall structures for strength.
• A
choice of frames.
• Solid
tilt bar mechanism for easy and long-lasting use. (This is VERY
important!)
• Multiple
louver sizes ( at least 2-3/8" and 3-3/8").
• Uniform
rail sizes for aesthetic consistency.
• Louvers
close up or down for infinite control of light and view.
• Heavy-duty
3 leaf hinges to prevent wobbly, sagging shutter panels.
• No
unsightly notches on frame.
• Lifetime
warranty.
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