How to Pick Plantation Shutters vs. California Shutters

Shutters can add a lot of elegance and vibrancy to your home. They also add to its resale value. Since shutters are a long-term investment, you need to make the best choice so they serve your needs and budget.

Of course, there are different types of shutters from which to choose. Here, we will be discussing plantation shutters and California shutters and how they differ.

Plantation Shutters: Material and Louver Size

Plantation shutters are one of the most popular window coverings. They come with louvers of various sizes. They also look modern and can brighten any space. Plantation shutters are a good option if you are looking to add a touch of elegance to your home.

Materials and Colours: Good-quality plantation shutters are made from furniture-grade wood, solid cellular PVC, or a combination of both. If you want energy-efficient shutters, go for ones with PVC as they insulate three times better than wood. PVC is also lightweight and durable.

For a traditional look, opt for wood plantation shutters as they can be matched to your preferred colour and style by staining. These shutters are available in both light and dark tints.

Louver Size: The louver size of a shutter decides how wide your view will be when your shutters are open and how much light you will get. The smallest louver you will find for plantation shutters is 2.5 inches. It works well for smaller windows and if you are trying to get a traditional look. You can also use them on larger windows.

One of the most popular louver sizes in plantation shutters is 3.5 inches. This looks contemporary and works well with windows of all sizes. Select this louver size if you want ample light inside your room.

Plantation shutters with 4.5-inch louvers are best for a modern look and larger windows. They deliver a wide view of the outside and flood your room with natural light. You can also use them for your patio doors.

California Shutters: Material and Louver Size

California shutters are not much different from plantation shutters. They offer a more traditional look and have a sleeker structure.

Materials and Colours: Just like plantation shutters, California shutters are also made from PVC, wood, or both. They are usually available in lighter shades (typically white) to make the room airy and bright. But you can get them stained or painted in various colours to suit your colour requirements.

Louver Size: Unlike plantation shutters, these are not available in louvers of various sizes. California shutters are sleek because they are only available in a 2.5-inch louver. Smaller louvers give them a traditional look but the view they offer is extremely narrow. You can use them on both smaller and larger windows.

Regardless of which shutter style you choose, make sure that the fitting is seamless and impeccable. You can go for readymade shutters but there is always a chance that they will not fit perfectly. Even the quality is sometimes dubious. That’s why it is advisable to go for custom shutters. Contact your nearby window coverings store for custom fitting and professional installation.