Plantation Shutters

Frequently Asked Questions

• What are Plantation Shutters?
  A custom built-in window accent providing maximum flexibility, insulation and control of light, privacy, ventilation using a frame with movable louvers. Materials used are hardwood, PolyDesign and vinyl.
  
  
• Why Plantation Shutters?
  The most elegant, cost effective and stylish window light, privacy and ventilation system available.
  
  
• How much do Plantation Shutters Cost?
  Please click here for our on-line price calculator and secure on-line order form.
  
  
• Which Louver Size is for Me?
  When making your louver choice, consider the size of the window and the desired effect. The larger windows command the 3-1/2", 4-1/2", or the new 5 1/2" louvers where the view is paramount; using the 3-1/2" , 4-1/2", or 5-1/2" louvers, the eye naturally focuses on the view through the open louvers. The smaller windows prefer the 2-1/2" or possibly 3-1/2" louvers where the eye will more naturally "see" the shutter before observing the view.
  
  
• How many panels do I need in my opening? Click here for the full-page answer.
  • Determine which product is right for you... Designer Series, Value Wood, PolyDesign or Vinyl
  • Measure the width of your opening.
    Based on the product you choose, use the least number of panels possible greater than 1 panel.
    • Maximum panel width is 48" for Designer Shutters
    • Maximum panel width is 40" for Value Wood
    • Maximum panel width is 28" (2-1/2" & 4-1/2" louvers) for PolyDesign.
    • Maximum panel width is 28" for Vinyl.
  • One more caveat... The number of panels should equal the number of vertical divisions you have in your opening. What constitutes an opening?
    
    
• I have casement windows. Will the crank handles interfere with the shutters?
  We recommend that you leave the crank handles on the window sill behind the shutters. When you want to open the window, simply insert the crank handle, open the window and remove it before closing the shutters. You'll find it won't be any inconvenience.
  
  
• Can I fold the shutters against the wall on a daily basis?
  Please keep in mind plantation shutters are designed to fit an opening. The shutter panels are moveable to allow cleaning and access to the window. They are not designed to be moved and folded up against a wall routinely. The louvers are the control mechanism allowing rotation to provide light, ventilation, view and privacy.
  
  

• What Woods do you offer?
  The most common woods we use are Poplar, Alder and Hardwood. We can produce in most woods such as Mahogany, Pine, Oak and even Teak plus most other hardwoods. The cost of your shutters will be based on the availability and cost of the wood plus the milling cost for the special run of non stock woods.
  
  

• How do I determine if I need a frame? (also see our installation page)
  Frames are required for two reasons:
  1) Lack of depth in the opening to accommodate panels and unobstructed operation of the louvers.
  2) Uneven opening dimensions. Many openings have adequate depth but have uneven dimensions. For example, you measure the width at the top, middle and bottom of the opening and have a 1/4" difference. If you installed shutter panels (they are perfectly even in dimension) in this opening, you would have uneven gaps between the panels and the window jamb. The "Z" mold framing corrects uneven dimensions by providing a nice even opening for the panels to be installed.
  
  

• Does Wood Warp and Chip Easily?
  The choice of a quality hardwood, proper milling techniques and a high-quality finish system assures a quality hardwood shutter will not warp; and when used as intended, will not chip any easier than any other shutter material, i.e., PolyDesign and vinyl. Should a panel be chipped, they are easier to touch up than any other product. Don't be fooled by hype from salesmen that suggest wood shutters are any less durable than PolyDesign or Vinyl. We offer all three materials in our product mix and a quality hardwood shutter is stronger, lighter, offers the best design opportunities and is the most appealing of the products we offer.
  
  The wood product is from a natural self-renewing resource and I have no record of any warping, chipping or pealing in the 18 years that I've been in the business.
  
  

• Can I Install the Shutters Myself?
  Most of our clients install the shutters themselves; but if you don't feel up to it, any finish carpenter will be happy to install them for you. You can budget about $2.00 to $3.00 per square foot. We'll be happy to speak with your carpenter before you order and during the installation.
  
  

• What Colors or Stains are Available?
  A three-coat semi-gloss enamel paint finish (two prime and one finish coat) is applied. We offer 6 Value Sherwin-Williams Colors; or if you like, we will match any paint color you desire at an additional cost. We caution you that the "new" paint on your shutters may be different from your "old" paint due to batches, time, dirt, smoke, etc.
  
  To insure a close match, a paint color number or color sample is required. Stain finish will be matched most easily using your supplied sample. Often our clients send a piece of door or base trim stained the desired color. Stain affects different woods in different ways. Stain absorption varies by wood grain and base colors of the wood. Therefore, a close match is entirely possible but there may be variations beyond our control.
  
  

• What about Maintenance?
  Plantation shutters are easily cleaned using a feather duster and a damp sponge or soft cloth. Unlike aluminum and vinyl products, there is no static charge to attract dust.
  
  

• How do I Measure my Windows & Doors?
  Simple measurement of width and height is all we need for a free estimate. Please take a look at our "How-to-Measure" page for detailed information.
  
  

• What is a Divider Rail?
  A divider rail is a horizontal wooden section that adds strength to the panel and an opportunity to operate the louvers above and below the divider rail independently.
  
  

• How do You Place an Order?
  Simply order online. Click HERE to Order or just give us a call at 1-800-823-6677.
  
  

• What is Delivery Time?
  We usually ship custom shutters in 4 - 8 weeks from the date of the order and receipt of the payment. Custom discount shutters usually ship in 10-14 days and discount shutters usually ship in 7-10 days
  
  

• Why Should I Purchase Plantation Shutters from BuyPlantationShutters.com?
  The purchase of plantation shutters is one you will live with for many years. We have been in the Industry for 18 years and have seen a number of companies come and go.
  
  In our opinion, your purchase should be a combination of 1) quality of product and 2) price. We have a high-quality plantation shutter that is sold internationally and sought after by designers worldwide because of the quality of the product. They know their customers will be very pleased with their plantation shutters. Ordering directly from the manufacture will save you money!
  
  We have dealers in many areas; however, if we don't have one in your area and you would like to recommend a local company, we would be happy to contact them about becoming a dealer for our products.