Introduction
Window shutters might feel like a significant investment, but they can yield fantastic results, offering additional security and privacy and bolstering curb-side appeal. Since they come in several materials and colour options, they are also excellent for homeowners who want to give their space some extra character. Whether you like classic, chateau-style wooden shutters or more modern aluminium varieties, window shutters are a popular feature and can up the value of your home.
Here we explore five reasons why you should buy window shutters.
- Privacy, security, and ultimate peace of mind
Shutters can offer a fantastic element of security to any home, especially roller varieties or those with locking options. Windows are undeniably a vulnerable point in many homes, and shutters can act as an extra layer of defence against possible theft or intrusion. They are able to effortlessly amalgamate security and style, so your home retains aesthetic appeal, all the while having extra security.
Shutters are also a fabulous way to ensure privacy, as the slats can be fully closed, partially closed, or opened at your discretion. While curtains often result in that all-too-familiar gap, shutters can be completely secure if and when needed, further enhancing privacy.
With privacy and security in check, these two undeniable benefits of window shutters offer homeowners ultimate peace of mind. Shut them when you’re out of town and avoid the stress of potential prying eyes into your home.
- Aesthetic appeal
Let’s be honest; many homeowners take great pride in the aesthetics of their homes. Shutters, while highly functional, are also aesthetically appealing and can really improve the curb-side appeal of a home. While some windows boast elegant design and are a focal point of a building’s exterior, others do not add much to a home’s appearance. This is where shutters can make a remarkable statement. Since they are so customisable, you can choose colours and materials that enhance your home. Whether you prefer modern finishes or the rustic appeal of wood, the world of shutters offers great diversity and styles can suit varying budgets and preferences. Explore suppliers with a range of shutters from café style designs and French varieties to sash window shutters and plantation varieties. Whether you’re looking to add shutters to a bay window, enhance your kitchen design, or enjoy the benefits of bedroom shutters, variety is key.
- An energy-efficient solution
Another fantastic benefit of window shutters is their energy-efficient nature. Because they are so closely attached to windows, they serve as an excellent insulator, and in essence, they can seal in the heat or cold. Research suggests that windows cause 30% of energy loss in a home (both heating and cooling), and this can result in a greater need for heaters and air-conditioning systems.
On colder days, when cooler temperatures drop or condense around your windows, closing your shutters can help to retain heat and keep the warm air inside. This can save you on those heating bills, and in turn, yield a fantastic return on investment. In summer, you can keep the overtly hot rays at bay, and in winter, you can keep the warmer air inside. When it comes to shutter materials and their energy-efficient properties, these are good options:
– Faux wood (usually made with vinyl or PVC)
– Composite shutters made with MDF
– Wooden shutters
Those who want to retain warmer or colder air and enhance their green footprint can also opt for additional insulation solutions to bolster the retention of energy. This might include sealing gaps with household Chaulk, wooden shims, or furring strips. Your window shutter manufacturer can advise you on want insulation options will best suit your particular window shutters.
- Various visibility and lighting options
Another fantastic perk of shutters is that they offer multiple visibility options. While curtains can only be opened or closed, shutters boast extra versatility. This makes window shutters a great choice if you want to look out to your garden but don’t want all the sun’s rays streaming in. It’s also a fantastic idea if you’re going to peak outside without the hassle of prying eyes looking back at you.
This also means that shutters offer a nuanced way to manage light. The solid slats in shutters allow you to choose where the light shines, and this means that you can manoeuvre the slats to get the best possible lighting for your needs. You can control the slats to manage how much sunlight your houseplants get or to determine the heating levels within your home. This is also a notable feature if you want to watch the television or work on your laptop and avoid any screen glare. These benefits also make shutters an excellent idea for home offices or places of work.
- Boosting the value of your property
Shutters can ultimately enhance the value of your home. While they might seem like a pricey investment at first (and maintenance costs should be factored into the overall budget) they are known to offer a great return on investment over time. Shutters are usually a very low-maintenance addition, and most come with a sizeable warranty. This is appealing to future buyers and increase the appraisal value of a property. Since they are so energy-efficient, they are also an attractive feature and can save homeowners on electricity and energy costs down the line.
The Takeaway
Window shutters add value and aesthetic appeal to your home, making them a popular pick for many homeowners and a great feature in the event you want to sell your home. They also offer additional privacy and security, and this results in ultimate peace of mind.
With so many styles available, the world of window shutters is an abundant one that is bound to delight.
What is your favourite style of shutter and how have they benefitted your home? We would love to hear from you!
