Plantation shutters are a popular window treatment choice due to their timeless design, functionality, and versatility. They add a touch of elegance to any room while offering excellent light control and privacy. However, when choosing plantation shutters for your home, it’s important to consider factors like the material, suitability for specific areas, and how long they will last.
Whether you’re installing them in a high-moisture space like a bathroom or kitchen, or wondering about their durability over time, understanding these key details will help you make an informed decision and get the most value out of your investment.
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Can Plantation Shutters Be Used in High-Moisture Areas?
Yes, plantation shutters can be used in high-moisture areas, but the material they’re made from is crucial to ensure they last in such conditions. Plantation shutters are stylish and functional window treatments, but not all types are suitable for humid environments like bathrooms, kitchens, or laundry rooms.
Types of Plantation Shutters
Two main materials are used for plantation shutters: wood and synthetic materials like PVC or composite. The choice between these materials is important when it comes to moisture.
Wooden Plantation Shutters
Wooden shutters are classic and elegant, giving a warm and natural look to any room. However, they aren’t the best choice for high-moisture areas. Wood tends to absorb moisture, which can cause it to warp, swell, or crack over time. Even though some wooden shutters are treated with sealants, they might still deteriorate in wet conditions. So, while wooden shutters work beautifully in living rooms or bedrooms, they’re not ideal for spaces like bathrooms.
PVC and Composite Plantation Shutters
In high-moisture areas, the best option is to use shutters made from PVC or composite materials. These synthetic shutters are designed to withstand humidity and dampness. Unlike wood, they won’t absorb moisture, so they won’t warp or crack over time. PVC and composite shutters are also resistant to mould and mildew, making them perfect for bathrooms, kitchens, and laundry rooms where water splashes and steam are common.
Benefits of PVC and Composite Shutters in High-Moisture Areas
- Waterproof: These shutters won’t absorb moisture, so they won’t swell or become damaged by water.
- Low maintenance: They’re easy to clean with a simple wipe-down, making them a practical option for areas that tend to get dirty or greasy, like the kitchen.
- Durable: PVC and composite materials are tough and can last a long time in humid environments without showing signs of wear.
- Mould-resistant: Unlike wood, these shutters won’t develop mould or mildew, which is important for areas where moisture lingers, like bathrooms.
- Customizable: Just like wooden shutters, synthetic shutters can be customized to fit your windows and come in a variety of colours and finishes to match your décor.
Where to Use Plantation Shutters
If you’re considering plantation shutters for your home, think about where they will be installed. For rooms that experience a lot of moisture, like bathrooms, kitchens, and laundry rooms, PVC or composite shutters are the best choice. These areas see more humidity than other rooms, so choosing a moisture-resistant material will ensure that your shutters last longer and require less maintenance.
For bedrooms, living rooms, or offices, wooden shutters can still be a great option, as these spaces typically have lower moisture levels. The natural beauty of wood adds warmth and character to these areas.
Where Should You Not Use Plantation Shutters?
While plantation shutters are a popular and versatile window treatment, there are certain areas where they may not be the best choice. Understanding where not to use plantation shutters can help you maintain their durability and ensure they remain functional and visually appealing.
1. Windows with Limited Depth
Plantation shutters need a certain amount of depth to be installed properly. If your windows are very shallow or don’t have enough space between the glass and the edge of the window frame, plantation shutters may not fit. In such cases, other treatments like blinds or curtains would be more suitable.
2. Sliding Glass Doors
Sliding glass doors require window treatments that can easily open and close horizontally. Plantation shutters, which swing open like doors or operate with louvres, may not be the best choice for this type of door. They could obstruct the sliding door’s functionality and take up too much space. Vertical blinds or curtains tend to work better with sliding glass doors because they don’t interfere with movement.
3. Tilt-and-Turn Windows
Tilt-and-turn windows open inward and sometimes require full access to the windowpane. Plantation shutters can block access to these windows, making them difficult to operate. For these types of windows, shades or roller blinds are more practical because they allow full access without obstruction.
4. Extreme Outdoor Areas
Plantation shutters, especially those made of wood, are not designed for outdoor environments exposed to the elements. If you’re looking for a window covering for an outdoor patio or deck, choose shutters specifically made for exterior use. These outdoor shutters are usually made of more durable materials like aluminium or PVC, which can withstand exposure to sun, rain, and wind.
5. Extremely Small Windows
Plantation shutters are most effective on medium to large windows where their louvres can be fully appreciated. For extremely small windows, the shutters might appear bulky or out of proportion. In such cases, other window treatments like roman shades, roller blinds, or curtains might be a better fit for the smaller scale.
6. Windows Requiring Complete Darkness
If you need complete blackout conditions, like in a home theatre or a bedroom for daytime sleep, plantation shutters may not provide the best solution. While they do block a lot of light, some light can still seep in between the louvres. Blackout curtains or shades are a better option when you need to block all light.
7. Low-ceiling rooms with Tall Windows
If your room has low ceilings but tall windows, plantation shutters can make the room feel more cramped and heavy. The horizontal lines created by the louvres can visually lower the ceiling height even more. Instead, using light, flowing curtains or sheer blinds may help create a more open and spacious feel.
What is the Life Expectancy of Plantation Shutters?
The life expectancy of plantation shutters depends on the material, quality of construction, and how well they are maintained. On average, well-made plantation shutters can last between 10 to 25 years, and sometimes even longer. Let’s break down the factors that affect their lifespan.
1. Material
The material plays a key role in determining how long plantation shutters will last.
- Wooden Shutters: High-quality wood shutters, such as those made from hardwoods like basswood or cedar, can last 15 to 25 years or more with proper care. However, wood can be susceptible to moisture, which may cause warping, cracking, or swelling over time, especially in humid areas like bathrooms or kitchens. Regular cleaning and maintenance, such as reapplying protective finishes, can extend their life.
- PVC or Composite Shutters: These synthetic materials are highly durable and resistant to moisture, making them ideal for high-humidity areas. PVC and composite shutters generally last 20 to 30 years or more. They are less prone to warping or cracking, which makes them more durable than wood in wet environments. However, they can still degrade over time due to UV exposure, especially in rooms with intense sunlight.
- Aluminium or Vinyl Shutters: Though less common for interior use, aluminium or vinyl plantation shutters are also very durable and can last 20 years or longer. They are primarily used for exterior applications and can withstand harsh weather conditions better than wood.
2. Quality of Construction
Shutters made from high-quality materials and crafted with precision tend to last longer. Features like reinforced joints, durable hinges, and well-finished louvres can significantly extend the shutters’ lifespan. Lower-quality shutters, even those made from wood or PVC, may not last as long if they are poorly constructed.
3. Maintenance
Proper maintenance is crucial to ensure plantation shutters last as long as possible. Regular cleaning, dusting, and inspecting for damage can help you catch minor issues before they become bigger problems. For wooden shutters, occasional refinishing or sealing may be needed to protect the wood from drying out or warping.
PVC and composite shutters require less maintenance but should still be wiped down regularly to prevent dirt buildup. Lubricating the hinges and other moving parts can keep them functioning smoothly for years.
4. Environmental Factors
The environment in which your plantation shutters are installed also impacts their longevity. For example, shutters in high-moisture areas like bathrooms or kitchens might not last as long if made from wood, even with maintenance. Exposure to direct sunlight can fade or weaken materials over time, particularly in hot climates. Shutters in well-ventilated and dry areas generally have a longer life expectancy.
Conclusion
If you’re thinking about getting plantation shutters, it’s important to pick the right material for your place. Wooden shutters look classic but might not be the best for damp areas where PVC or composite shutters are better.
With proper installation and care from plantation shutter experts like Perths Boutique Plantation Shutters, you can be sure that your shutters can last 10 to 25 years or even more.
Knowing where to use them and how long they’ll last in different spots will ensure that your plantation shutters remain a stylish and functional feature in your home for many years.
