10 Things to Know Before Buying Plantation Shutters
Plantation shutters are one of the most timeless and high-impact window treatments you can invest in. But before you buy, it’s important to understand the options, materials, and design choices that go into making the right decision. At Louver Shop, we specialize in custom, American-made plantation shutters that are made to last.
Whether you’re new to interior shutters or just want to get it right the first time, here are 10 things to know before you buy.
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1. Choose the Right Material for the Right Room
Not all shutters are created equal—especially when it comes to material.
- Wood plantation shutters, like our Heritage or Classic plantation shutters, are ideal for high-traffic, dry areas like living rooms, kitchens, and bedrooms. They offer unmatched durability, strength, and a rich, high-end look.
- In humid or moisture-prone areas like bathrooms, laundry rooms, or sunrooms, our exclusive LouverWood™ material is a better choice. It’s engineered to resist warping, cracking, and peeling, all while offering the look of real wood.
2. Understand Louver Sizes
Louver size affects both the aesthetics and functionality of your shutters.
- 1¼ inch louvers offer a historically accurate design for an authentic and customizable appearance.
- 2 ½ inch louvers have a more traditional look and are ideal for smaller windows.
- 3 ½ inch louvers are the most popular choice, offering a balanced look and a wider outside view.
- 4 ½ inch louvers give a more modern, open feel and are best for large windows or when you want more light and visibility.
3. Hidden Tilt vs. Traditional Tilt Rod
You’ll also need to decide how the louvers tilt open and closed.
- A traditional tilt rod is visible in the center and adds to the classic look of plantation shutters.
- A hidden tilt system is built into the side or back, creating a cleaner, more modern aesthetic.
Both work the same way functionally—it just comes down to your style preference.
4. Custom Color and Finish Options
At Louver Shop, we offer a wide variety of painted and stained finishes.
- White plantation shutters are the most popular, offering a crisp, timeless look that works with virtually any interior.
- For a warmer, natural aesthetic, our stained wood shutters can be custom-matched to your existing trim, floors, or cabinetry.
5. Plantation Shutters Are Easy to Clean
Unlike fabric drapes or shades that collect dust and allergens, plantation shutters are incredibly low-maintenance. Just wipe them down with a damp cloth or a microfiber duster—no need for harsh chemicals or special tools.
6. You’ll Need a Professional Measurement
Don’t assume you can measure windows yourself and order shutters online. Custom plantation shutters require precise, professional measurement to ensure a perfect fit especially for arched, angled, or oversized windows. Our design consultants takes care of all of that, so you don’t have to worry about it.
7. American-Made Shutters Make a Difference
At Louver Shop, all of our plantation shutters are proudly made in the USA. That means you’re getting superior craftsmanship without the added costs that often come with overseas manufacturing. With no international shipping markups or outsourced production shortcuts, you can feel confident you’re investing in durable, high-quality shutters built to last while supporting American jobs and standards
8. Consider Light Control and Privacy
Shutters are ideal for balancing natural light with privacy. You can adjust the louvers to let in as much or as little light as you want. For even more control, we offer split tilt designs that let you operate the top and bottom louvers independently.
9. Not All Shutters Are Installed the Same
Proper installation makes a big difference in how shutters look and function. Our professional installers ensure that every shutter sits level, opens smoothly, and complements your window’s architecture.
10. You Can Schedule a Complimentary Design Consultation
With so many decisions to make—materials, colors, louver sizes, tilt options—it helps to have an expert on your side. That’s why Louver Shop offers complimentary in-home design consultations. We bring samples, walk you through every option, and help you find the perfect shutters for your space, style, and budget.
Ready to Transform Your Windows?
Plantation shutters are more than just window coverings. They’re a design feature that adds style, function, and lasting value to your home. Schedule your free consultation with us today and explore our wide selection of customizable plantation shutters, paints, and stains. We’ll help you get it right—down to the very last detail.