What do you usually consider when you want to improve the look of your home? A new coat of paint perhaps? What about using shutters for your windows?
Before you write off the concept as something that is only suitable for a country cottage or a villa in the Mediterranean, let me explain to you why shutters are slowly becoming popular again in English homes. Shutters for windows are like the Swiss Army knife of home improvements. They are not just to beautify the face (which they do to some extent). They are about security, privacy, light, and sometimes energy. In short, they are the unnoticed workers of our homes.
First things first – security. Who does not want to be safe and secure in their own home? Well, shutters provide an additional barrier that many intruders would not anticipate. Consider this: if you were a criminal seeking an easy prey, would you even attempt to break into a house that has shutters on the windows? It’s like putting up a sign that says ‘please move on, there is nothing to see here’. But it’s not only about preventing unwanted guests from entering. Shutters also allow you to control the amount of visibility into your home. In the world where it seems that everyone’s business is open for public view, a bit of privacy is priceless.
With shutters, you can control the slats to allow light while denying access to the outside world. It is like getting the best of both worlds. Another great thing about shutters is that they can be used in almost any way you want. From a contemporary flat in the middle of London to a traditional house in the Cotswolds, there is a shutter for every home. From the full-height shutters that are used to cover the whole window to the cafe shutters that only cover the lower part of the window, there are many choices available.
In the past, shutters were simply made out of wood. Today it is possible to have vinyl, MDF or even aluminium. All of them have their advantages, perhaps it is the durability, affordability or low maintenance costs. As for the colour options – there is no colour that you can think of; be it the traditional white or a bright vibrant colour, you will get it.
However, shutters are not just for aesthetics and security. During the summer when the sun is scorching and your house feels like an oven, shutters can be a lifesaver. Close them during the day to keep the heat out, and you might find you don’t need the electric fan. In winter they offer an additional layer of protection to your windows to ensure that heat does not escape, and you have to spend a lot of money on heating.
For those of us who work from home (which, let’s be honest, is an ever-increasing number of people), shutters can be a real benefit. Some of the benefits include reducing glare on computer screens and establishing a clear divide between work and home spaces even if they are both in one area. Just close the shutters at the end of the day and it is like putting the closed door to the office.
There are many professional installers who supply and install a wide range of security shutters for you. And once they’re up, they don’t require much attention. All they require is a simple cleaning from time to time in order to maintain their good appearance.
Measure carefully and ensure that you get the right measurements before placing your order. Not all windows are easy to fit shutters on and some may require more attention. A good supplier will be able to guide you on the most suitable type of windows for your case. Do you desire total control of the light? This will assist you in identifying the right style of shutter to use.
Don’t forget planning permission: If you live in a listed building or in a conservation area, then you must seek permission from your local council to alter your windows in any way.
Shutters for windows are far more than just a decorative element. They are functional, convenient, and decorative to have in any home. If you are interested in enhancing the security of your home, protecting your privacy or possibly updating the look of your house, then shutters may well be just what you are after.