Finish Off Your Home with Interior Shutters

Windows have been our interface to the world. From time immemorial people have been dressing up their windows either with curtains or Venetian blinds. However with fashion comes change and a recent phenomenon in window dress up is the window shutter. The latest doing the rounds are the plantation wooden shutters brought out by Signature Shutters – a specialist in the design, supply and installation of interior wooden window shutters.
The specialty of these shutters is that they are aesthetically pleasing while providing variations to the amount of light and privacy you wish for your home. Signature Shutters makes plantation wooden shutters made from the best wood available. They provide working louvers to control light, as well solid shutters. Their shutters are the only window covering appraised while ascertaining home value, thereby increasing resale values of homes. Wooden shutters from Signature Shutters can be the ideal choice for everyone.
You can choose to place window shutters North West or facing any other suitable direction. Although most people believe that windows placed only in North, North West receive more warmth and sunlight, which can be great for the winter months. However irrespective of whether you place window shutters North West or any other direction, be sure to choose the right materials and colors for them. Common materials used include basswood, lock wood and craft-wood.
All in all, plantation shutters provide a touch of elegance to your home. The best part is since they are made of the finest quality of wood, you can be sure they are sturdy and durable. Plantation shutters come in a host of colors ranging from pear-wood, honey, cherry, black walnut, dover white, silk white, natural, hermitage green, bisque, dark teak, alabaster, rosewood, paprika etc. with each of these come in paint or stain finishes.
For More Details : www.signatureshutters.co.uk

Why choose a greenhouse?


Greenhouses are often thought of as the exclusive preserve of the dedicated gardener. However with greenhouses and frames to suit every pocket and size of garden, there is no need for even the novice gardener to feel daunted by the prospect of installing and running one.

The most obvious benefit of having your own greenhouse is the growing season is extended beyond the first frosts, of winter and the last frosts of spring. This is particularly useful if, like thousands of gardeners every year, you are tempted by the delights on display at the garden center early in the year, which are too vulnerable to be put out in the garden until the risk of frost has passed.

It is simply not practical to protect each individual betting plant with fleece, yet if you wait until latter in the season the best plants have sold out. Greenhouses and frames offer the perfect solution, providing an environment for hardening off, gradually acclimatising plants to the elements prior to planting out. Favorite tender plants may also be safely over wintered.

For most gardeners propagation remains the impetus for buying a greenhouse. Although it will take time to repay the initial investment, great savings can be made by creating new stock in large numbers. The satisfaction in producing your own plants is immense and the techniques are essentially very simple.

The traditional greenhouse

The traditional greenhouse has vertical sides, closed in lower part, and an evenly spanned roof. It uses space well and the covered lower part conserves heat effectively, making it energy efficient. A wide range of accessories such as shelves and staging is available to suit this type of greenhouse, making it a good all round choice. Many sizes are available, choose one to suit both your garden and the amount of time you plan to spend in the greenhouse. A keen propagator will quickly outgrow a small model.

The lean-to greenhouse

A lean-to greenhouse built against a wall is useful for those who do not want to give up precious garden space. Because the lean-to is situated against a wall, it retains heat well, often benefiting not only from sunlight, but from a certain amount of heat emitted by the heating system of the home.

Lean-to greenhouses can be extremely attractive in their own right and can double up as garden rooms if there is a connecting door to the home. Their reduced glazed surface means that they are less expensive to heat than a conventional greenhouse, although obviously the receive less light than traditional models.

Watering and heating systems are also comparatively simple to install, there being no need to lay cables to a more distant part of the garden.

The mini greenhouse

Mini greenhouse provide an excellent introduction to growing under glass, invaluable not only to the gardener with limited space, but also to the novice who does not wish to make a costly investment in a more substantial model. Both free standing and lean-to mini greenhouses are available.

Specialist greenhouse

A range of greenhouses in unusual shapes and sizes are available. Some are designed primarily for their decorative properties, such as octagonal greenhouses, others for increased efficiency of heat retention or stability in high winds. A major drawback of a specialist greenhouse is that staging, shelving, glazing accessories and replacements are not standard items. The choice may therefore be both limited and expensive.

To see a full range of greenhouses,lean-to greenhouses and cold frames. Why not take a visit to the Greenhouse department at http://www.mygardencenteronline.com

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Problems and Solutions Concerning Vertical Blinds

Some of us love the look of vertical blinds while others prefer a different look. However, the problem still exists of how to control sunlight in your home. Certain types of windows can prove difficult for vertical blinds and shades. Where vertical blinds are always possible, they may not always be practical. In this article we will look at certain types of window problems and present a solution for light control. Some may involve vertical blinds while others may suggest an alternative.

Sliding glass doors are a window that can prove difficult. They are large and at time the light just pours in. Vertical blinds do fit quite nicely in sliding glass doors however; their size makes vertical blinds a bit of an unpopular option. Some things that you can try are; splitting the window shade into the number of glass panels that you have. A sliding glass door will have one panel that can be moved while one will remain stationary. A two on one configuration will work best. Especially if you have lots of traffic in and out of that particular door or have summertime get together. This provides a good solution for those that would rather not use vertical blinds on such a large window.

French doors can present a problem. Vertical blinds look great on them, but sometimes the handle of the door interferes with the mechanics of the vertical blind. There are several options open in this case. Any product with a low profile head rail will do the trick. You also need something that allows the veins of the vertical blind or other material to stay close to the door. This will help to minimize the interference of the door handle.

Bathroom windows can present some interesting challenges for vertical blinds. Bathrooms tend to be very moist and damp places. You need ventilation to keep mildew from building up however you also want a significant amount of privacy while in your bathroom. The moisture in the bathroom can cause some vertical blinds to warp and crack in time. You obviously need vertical blinds that can stand up to these conditions.

The pleasure and charm of an old Victorian house is second to none. These homes offer so much in elegance and are a wonderful reminder of an era long past. Victorian houses are known for a vertical blind nightmare that is the bay window. Bay windows can prove rather difficult to fit because like finger prints no two seem to be alike. Vertical blinds can be fitted but you will likely have to have them specially made. However, this option although slightly more expensive will add to the charm of your bay window as well as help keep the light under control.

Today many of our homes have skylights. They are quite popular for natural light and heat. However, they can let in too much at times causing homes to over heat and become too bright. Due to the position of skylights, fitting vertical blinds can be a challenge however it can be done. Several companies offer options that can be controlled mechanically. Sky rise skylight systems are one such place. They offer blinds and shades that can be controlled manually or by motor. These will help control the light so you can get the best use of your skylight.

Some of us have large windows with magnificent views. Blocking the sun sometimes means compromising this scenery. A good solution to this problem is to purchase vertical blinds that have a great deal of width between the slats. This will help to filter out the sun and stop you loosing that wonderful view that you’re so proud of.

Finally some of have archways and odd shapes above our doorways that allow the sun to come pouring in however, seem impossible to fit vertical blinds to. Sometimes vertical blinds need to be cut down to size while other companies will make them specific to your needs. You can get them so they are controlled by a pole rather than the traditional cords. This helps you get access to some areas that may be hard to reach.

Vertical blinds can fit nearly every window however; many of us may prefer something else. However, when it comes to treating windows and sky lights, there is no problem too big for vertical blinds. They can be made to fit just about anywhere.

Judith Persit knows about vertical blinds as she has bought them many times for her various homes. She writes often about vertical blinds and window blinds. You can learn more about her at BlindsFactoryDirect.com, vertical blinds, roller shades, plantation shutters, wood blinds and more.

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Wood Sub Floors are a Rotten Choice

For many homeowners, the idea of a basement finishing is to remodel the area the same what the rest of the house has been designed. This means they’ll want their ceiling to be made of drywall to look like the rest of their house. The furniture should be the same decor, and their floors- the wood sub floors and beautiful, thick carpet laid on top- should be placed downstairs as well.


Unfortunately, this is not going to work. A drywall ceiling is going to give little or no access to pipes running along your basement ceiling, and a single plumbing leak will cause enormous damage to it. The basement walls have fewer windows than the rest of the house, and if you lay wood on a concrete basement floor, it’s going to lead to a home improvement disaster.


The problem is this: concrete is porous like a sponge. If you have moisture in the earth around your basement floor, the concrete floor will soak that moisture up from the ground and release it into the basement air in the form of water vapor. The dirt around your foundation was backfilled in when the foundation was built. Because of this, it will always be looser and more porous than the virgin earth around it, and water will always collect against your home’s foundation more than anywhere else. Click here for more information.


As this moisture soaks through to the basement and is released, it will collect on anything lying on your basement floor. If you’ve laid a wood sub floor and carpet on the floor, then you can count on that to soak up this moisture and grow mold, mildew, and rot. Your basement will fill with mold spores, dust mite feces, and unpleasant odors as your wood sub floors and beautiful carpet decays. In a few years, the damage will be more than you can stand, and the whole finished basement floor will need to be ripped up and replaced. The solution to this comes in two easy rules:


Rule 1: Never install wood floors in a basement. Whether it’s in the form of moisture coming through the concrete, a foundation leak, or a plumbing leak from within the house itself, water will reach the basement floor sooner or later. It only takes about 48 hours for mold to start growing, and there’s no easy way to dry wood sub floors out. Installing wood sub floors in a basement is a risk at best and a disaster at worst.


Rule 2: Add a reliable plastic vapor barrier to your floor, then lay your carpeting on top. A thick pile carpet will add warmth to the room and will absorb sounds, making the finished basement quieter than ever. It’ll be softer under foot and will make the room as comfortable as possible for children to play in.


Once you’ve done a basement waterproofing, Basement Systems recommends and installs ThermalDry floor matting on your concrete basement floors. It creates a waterproof vapor barrier on your floor that will protect your carpet from basement moisture while insulating the floor to make the surface as much as ten degrees warmer than the concrete floor beneath. Our floor matting last twice as long and take only 3/8” of head room from the basement as opposed to the 4” that wood sub floors can use. Our sub floors outlast several generations of carpet, come with a written warranty, and will not support the growth of mold and rot. What more could you want?

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Fauxwood Plantation Shutters Add Southern Class

One of the most romantic periods of architecture and interior designs is referred to now as the antebellum period, which literally translates as 'before the war' - in this case, the American Civil War. In particular, the antebellum design refers to the old South, with elegant plantation homes appearing in the early 1800s, characterised by Greek or Classical revival touches or the grand federal style. Today, this period is much sought after by home designers and interior design professionals, and in much demand now are those companies offering faux wood plantation shutters.

It is fauxwood plantation shutters which immediately give visitors the unmistakeable feel of the old Southern charm, with their classical design evoking all the romanticism of the period, with a modern twist. Because faux wood plantation shutters are constructed from PVC based materials, they retain all the appearance of real wood, with none of the old fashioned downsides. Faux wood plantation shutters do not split, warp or crack in the way that their wooden equivalents have always had a tendency to do.

No one entering the room would be able to tell that your faux wood plantation shutters were anything but the real thing, allowing the light outside to filter across the room in an unmistakeable way that diffuses the light without restricting it.

One mustn't forget of course that faux wood plantation shutters are chosen not just for their appealing look and evocative style and charm, but for the practical ways in which they can provide both privacy and style, with much more flexibility and durability than almost any window blind equivalent. Fully closed, faux wood plantation shutters will block out a significant proportion of light, and guarantee complete privacy and peace of mind. With the slats partly open, an attractive view is available from the inside, with a beautiful diffused light effect entering the room, and with the window open, a breath of fresh air will circulate the room, whilst still providing reasonable privacy.

The faux wood plantation shutters are able to be opened fully, or the top half or bottom half opened separately, adding to the flexibility and style you wish to have. Painted or varnished wood, especially in damp areas of places which are exposed to a significant quantity of daylight are likely to deteriorate over time, peeling, cracking or splitting, with the wood itself warping over time leaving a less than perfect fit, not to mention a less than perfect appearance. Maintenance, at both cost and time, will be necessary to keep the shutters looking as good as they should. However, with faux wood plantation shutters the problems are negligible, with the finish resistant to cracking, splitting or peeling, even in the harshest conditions.

Many people chose faux wood plantation shutters to enclose outdoor pools or spas. Even in the home, in bathrooms, the humidity and moisture levels are higher than average, and in these places, painted or varnished woods will last only a relatively short while before the continual expanding and contracting of the wood as it absorbs the water results in warping, twisting and breaking of the slats and frames. However, with faux wood plantation shutters, the true romance of the antebellum period can be achieved at no loss, where style and longevity is concerned. What can be more romantic than having all of the positives associated with the style of the period, without any of the negatives which come with the wooden equivalents?

Another advantage of fitting faux wood plantation shutters to your home is that the effect and look does not merely compliment the inside of your room, helping to evoke that romantic old South look and feel, but from the outside the look is immediately recognizable. The curb appeal of faux wood plantation shutters is unmistakeable, and will grant your home a romantic, classical look which will be noticed and admired by passers by and guests coming to visit. Looking to sell your home? Then fitting these will guarantee to help move your property - even before the prospective buyers have set foot inside.

Make sure that the antebellum period is continued inside with artistic and well placed period furniture - with all the class and style of the old South, your property value will be heading north!

Thank: http://www.articlecat.com

Use Plantation Shutters to Finish Your Water Rooms

Spas, jacuzzis, outdoor pools, or blissful bathrooms, nobody can deny the nation's love affair with water based rooms and features for all the family to share. They are the ultimate in comfort, leisure and health, and are increasingly common in many homes. Yet, as many realize, it isn't just enough to have the feature itself, like any other room, the d�cor around it serves both a practical purpose, and a design one.

One of the most popular additions to these rooms and living areas is to add shutters, in particular, plantation style shutters. Faux wood plantation shutters provide full and complete privacy when it is required, or diffused lighting with external privacy but internal views, or full open without any obstruction at all. Additionally, faux wood plantation shutters provide the added advantage that, whatever their open or closed state, they give an appearance that is second to none. No other blind, curtain or shutter can offer quite the style and colonial elegance which is the mark of faux wood plantation shutters. When it comes to an elegant finish, look for plantation shutters.

But why faux wood plantation shutters � and not real wood shutters? Surely if the ultimate in elegance and style is to be introduced into the living areas, would plastic based shutters be inferior to wooden plantation shutters?

This could not be further from the truth. In all of the areas and spaces mentioned above, the one common factor is water. Any area which either houses a great deal of water, is prone to splashing or is subject to high levels of humidity will be amongst the worst places for any wooden or painted product � especially a wooden product which contains a number of small, fairly thin sections.

These sections of a shutter will quickly absorb moisture, causing then to expand, contract, stretch, warp and even crack or split. These issues will not only cause the appearance of the shutters to quickly deteriorate, causing either frequent recoating or repair, but can in some instances cause the wood to warp so badly that the shutters fail to fit as snugly as they used to, perhaps not even fully close.

On the other hand, faux wood plantation shutters are constructed of a PVC based material which is completely water resistant. No matter how much humidity they are exposed to, or how much splashing, faux wood plantation shutters will remain in the same condition, without any damage, warping or splitting. It is the waterproof nature of faux wood plantation shutters that make them an especially good choice for these areas. The entire fabric of the plantation shutters, from the slats to the mechanism, and the frame too, are all waterproof and guaranteed against splitting or cracking, and guaranteed to retain their original shape and fitting.

These areas are also commonly ones where plantation shutters are more preferable to blinds or curtains because of the very quick and easy way in which they can be fully or partially opened or closed. Whilst relaxing in your spa, you may well wish to have them open, but when getting out and dressed, you will need to gain some level of privacy.

And in case you are wondering about the appearance, most people would be hard pushed to tell at a glance whether a shutter was made of real wood, or if it was a faux wood plantation shutter. Available in a wide range of wood textures and colors, faux wood plantation shutters are designed to fit in with the style of your home, whatever style you have chosen. Clean, minimalist styles in crisp white, old cottage styles with oak effects or modern living spaces with beech accents, all will find a faux wood plantation shutter to suit their style and colour.

And, let's not forget, the budget. While wood plantation shutters may be an elegant luxury suited to some spaces, they come with a hefty price tag. Faux wood plantation shutters are highly affordable, being a luxurious addition to a home without the luxurious price tag to go with them. Quality and a price which suits for a plantation shutter which will add enormous glamour to your home, and practical too? There is a plenty of information on the internet where you can get more details on the waterproof quality of faux wood plantation shutters, or any other aspect of their build or quality, including fitting.

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Judith Persit is an interior designer specializing in window treatments. Judith writes about plantation shutters. Learn more about faux wood shutters at her website.

Faux Wood Plantations Shutters Are Easily Cleaned, Sometimes


The one thing that, no matter how skilled and artistic, most interior designers seem to utterly forget is the maintenance and upkeep of the stylish look, The glamour, the elegance are all very well, but come Tuesday morning it will still all need cleaning, and some items are simply not designed to be kept clean. Yet, that is such a shame because these amazing embellishments can begin to look so old and tired if they are not easily maintained and given a chance to sparkle like new for a long time to come. The entire look of the room can be brought down. We are faced with the dilemma of wishing to portray classic elegance and sophistication, with a no-fuss, convenient means to maintain that image with minimal effort or outlay. It is for this reason, that faux wood plantation shutters have proven so successful in recent years, and seen a tremendous increase in popularity.

One of the most popular selling features of faux wood plantation shutters is that, not only do they add a level of glamour and style which is quite out of this world, but due to their construction and the PVC based material from which they are made, they are very easily washable, with no risk of damage by using the wrong detergent or scrubbing hard. Wood and other delicate natural materials may look good, but when it comes to keeping them looking that way after a period of time has elapsed, allowing enough dirt and grime to settle on them, the cleaning becomes a very tough task, and you may well be tempted to use cleaning agents and cloths which, while they may be effective in removing the grime, also have a tendency to damage the varnish and paint work which may have been applied, and if no paintwork has been applied, then the surface of the wood is exposed to chemicals which can affect its appearance, its integrity and the sheen and texture that give it the luxurious quality it had. In short, cleaning wooden items is cumbersome and liable to damage the product.

Whereas faux wood plantation shutters can be wiped clean quickly and easily with a damp cloth - no risk of marking or surface damage - no need for tough detergents or scrubbing, and even if you do use a little detergent, there is little risk of you damaging the appearance or harming the longevity of these products. Faux wood plantation shutters have been designed with not just glamour in mind, but the long term maintenance and care of them, too.

Unlike faux wood plantation shutters, some materials in the home have a tendency to attract dust - static surfaces such as plastics, and especially television screens. Many blinds are made of plastic based materials which draw dust, and being constructed of so many different surfaces, this collects over the entire surface area, making keeping the original smart appearance difficult. Material blinds can be just as tricky, particularly in areas where grease may combine with the dust, such as in kitchens. The solution in these cases is to either take the material down and wash it, which for some blinds is simply impossible, or try wiping the material, which can often result in the dirt merely being streaked across the blind itself. Wooden blinds can absorb some of this grease and moisture, drawing and attracting the dirt and grime, making the cleaning process much longer and difficult. Faux wood plantation shutters have twin advantages here - combining the stylish look and elegance of real wood shutters, but without the tendency to absorb grime and make cleaning so difficult.

Because of the PVC construction, faux wood plantation shutters can be cleaned using a simple spray of water mixed with a mild detergent, and wiped clean quickly. For areas in the home where grease is less likely, cleaning can involve nothing more than running a duster along each blade of the faux wood plantation shutter - for the modern urban living space, they are the perfect solution for those too busy to spend hours maintaining a look, but who still wish to have the look of a successful, stylish and classy urban dwelling space which combines all the class and glamour of colonial times, with a 21st century application of convenience.

Judith Persit is a student of interior design. She started in this direction due to a search for design options in window treatments. Ms. Persit writes about plantation shutters. Learn more at faux wood plantation shutters

Changing Trends in Wood Shutters


During the 1990s a new trend began to take hold in the United States, that of interior wooden shutters. This was a small part of a widespread increase in the use of window accessories in real wood. Unfortunately, wood shutters were on the high end of the price scale, so wood blinds became a viable alternative. As usually happens, the trend has now reversed, and instead of wood blinds, the market for wood shutters has become more popular, especially that of faux wood, a material that has the effect of wood but at a lower cost.

Why Choose Faux Wood

Consumers buy window shutters for both privacy and to shade the room from the rays of the sun. Unlike blinds, shutters can completely shade the room, thus letting less light into the room. Because faux wood shutters are usually made from PVC or a similar composite material, they can provide the consumers with all the advantages of real wood, including the attractiveness, without the cost factors involved with real wood.

How Trends Have Changed

In the past, wood blinds were a luxury only afforded the rich, but the development of the faux wood shutter has made them more affordable. In fact, the introduction of faux wood has even forced manufacturers of real wood to lower their prices in order to prevent a total loss of sales. This means that although more people can afford real wood shutters, fax wood shutters are still a less expensive option. This narrowing of the price gap between the two types of blinds means that approximately 50% of blinds currently sold in the US are fax wood while the percentage for shutters is likely to be within the same range.

Concern for the environment may also influence people into buying faux wood instead of real wood shutters because they are concerned with natural wood depletion and replacement. Of course, you may find some who will argue that natural wood is biodegradable material while PVC and composite materials may create additional future refuse disposal issues. For most consumers, these problems are not even a consideration, but it's important to take them into consideration for those who may make their decision based upon one of those issues.

Advantages of Faux Wood

Compared to real wood, faux wood shutters have the advantage when it comes to strength and damage resistance. For example, a faux wood shutter will not warp, fade or crack, and over long periods of sun exposure, PVC will keep its shape and texture far better than its real wood counterpart. Though many people may be able to tell the difference between real wood and faux wood, the purpose is to create a real wood "look" to the room that the casual observer fails to note from a distance.

Adam Peters is a journalist who writes newsletters on shutters for http://www.home-decorating-reviews.com . A website with tips on best interior wood design, amongst many related topics.

Wood Plantation Blinds


Plantation blinds refer to interior shutters, with huge louvers, that are moveable and can be used like Venetian blinds. Often they are used only on the bottom half of the window and not on the top. They are very effective in keeping the excessive heat and light from entering the home.

They are very versatile and easily adapted by both, traditional and contemporary decors. They have specific features, such as high resale value, effectual insulation, appealing looks and the ability to standardize and block light.

It is possible to use them in any room and they do not require added drapery, to lend them grace and elegance. They lend charm to both, the inside as well as the outside of the room. It is possible to look assess the way they enhance a home by simply viewing them from the outside of the homes that have them.

Most manufacturers provide the wood plantation blinds fully assembled, with all the mounting hardware and installation instructions that are easy-to-follow. Some of these are uniquely hand crafted. The manufacturers generally supervise the creations themselves. The high quality, wooden plantation blinds are the most sought after shutters and give real value for money. The manufacturers customize it as per the requirement of the customer and deliver the finished product within a fortnight.

The manufacturers who offer these blinds on the net, guarantee free shipping, at times, just as part of their marketing strategy. These blinds are available in various louver sizes. They also sport features such as, arches, multiple or single panel configurations and inside or outside mounts. They are available with pre-drilled frames for easy installation that can be executed in just 15 minutes. The various components of the blinds are also color coordinated, to add to the elegance of the interior decor.

Wood Blinds provides detailed information on Wood Blinds, Faux Wood Blinds, Wood Mini Blinds, Woven Wood Blinds and more. Wood Blinds is affiliated with Faux Wood Window Blinds.

Real Wood Shutters - Provide the Look While Avoiding the High Cost


There is very little in the way of class, style and elegance to compare to wood plantation shutters – they simply ooze style and sophistication, whilst at the same time, promoting an evocative atmosphere after the style of old colonial. Wood plantation shutters provide the most beautifully diffused light, combining privacy with a quick and easy opening and shutting mechanism.

Faux wood plantation shutters have substantial advantages over real wood shutters. Since they are susceptible to hot and cold variations in temperature, and usually succumb to moisture dampness, real wood shutters can warp, stretching and contracting over time according to the heat being received. This warping can lead to the fit of the shutters becoming less exact over time, and in severe circumstances can prevent the shutters from closing fully or opening in the way they should. This, of course, can make the appearance look less than desirable, and if the shutters don't close properly, then possibly your privacy is at stake.

Another problem with some wooden shutters is that they can fade over time. Wood, like any other natural material, is affected by the sunlight. Over time, the wood can be dried, faded and the overall affect lost.

Faux wood plantation shutters, on the other hand, are composed of PVC and are both colored and textured to give the appearance of a wide range of natural looking woods. Yet whilst the appearance is not lost, the long term durability is far more sustainable. Faux wood plantation shutters do not fade or warp, so the long term appearance of the product is guaranteed far longer.

The natural wood look of faux wood plantation shutters means that they will be able to compliment any style of décor which a room takes. From the crisp, clean white of a bathroom or a colonial style bedroom, to the warmer tones of beech to a classic oak, there is no doubt that faux wood plantation shutters can provide the matching look for a cost which will be very surprising.

Another advantage of faux wood plantation shutters compared to real wood shutters is retail purchase cost. There is no doubt that real wood can be hugely expensive, yet the PVC construction of faux wood plantation shutters makes them very affordable indeed. If you're saving money by purchasing faux wood plantation shutters – why not invest in some complimentary decorations to set them off?

Many people are keen to use the style of plantation shutters in areas such as kitchens, bathrooms and even spas. In these areas, moisture can be such a problem that wood shutters would simply warp, crack and peel, losing their appeal and style very quickly. Considering the cost of wooden shutters, this represents both a poor choice, the investment simply not justifying itself after only a very short period of time. By fitting faux wood plantation shutters, all of these moisture problems are solved in one fell stroke. Faux wood plantation shutters will simply not peel or crack or warp, the lower cost of initial investment returning its long term advantages to you time and time again.

Today, many people recognize the advantage of 'curb appeal' in selling their houses, and the appeal is continued inside the property when visitors and prospective buyers step inside and see the exquisite style and practicality of wood plantation shutters. Indeed, the value of a property can be significantly enhanced through the addition and installation of suitably chosen, décor-complimenting wood plantation shutters. The advantage of fitting faux wood plantation shutters is not just because of the style they add, but the investment they represent. Almost certainly the value they represent in terms of style adds to your property, whether for your own pleasure or as part of a move to sell your property at a good price, will be far in excess of the cost to purchase and install them yourself. Faux wood plantation shutters are a feature which will help to sell your property even before the buyer has stepped in the door.

So, if style is your aim, and cost your gain, then there is no doubt at all that, from the point of view of style, longevity and cost, faux wood plantation shutters represent a remarkably low cost yet evocative and stylish addition to the house which likes to call itself a home. Consider faux wood plantation shutters when making that fateful decision.

Judith Persit is an interior designer specializing in window treatments. Judith writes about plantation shutters. Learn more at http://BlindsFactoryDirect.com

Single Twin Skinned Roller Shutter Doors


Are you worried about the safety of your business? Is the security of your home giving you sleepless nights? Then it is high time you invest in the security of your home or office. There are many safety devices and gadgets available in the market. One of the best solutions that can help you to increase the safety of your home is roller shutter door. Roller Shutters offer security to your home and a sound sleep to you.

Roller shutter doors are made up of interlocking slats that form a curtain. This particular arrangement helps to roll the door up or down on a spring loaded barrel. The door can be easily installed and usually requires a very small amount of space once it has been installed.

Advantages of Roller Shutter Doors

• Roller shutters as compared to the traditional wooden doors are more sturdy, strong, durable and efficient.

• They offer protection from the natural elements such as rain, storm, wind etc.

• It also acts as a barrier against air borne pollution.

• Offers safety against theft.

• The stylish and trendy designs make them as an attractive décor element.

• As they occupy less space are suitable in door spaces where space is a constraint.

Types of Roller Shutters

There are many types of roller shutters such as single skinned or double skinned, manually operated or electrically operated. Generally, the single skinned doors are used inside a building. On the other hand, the main purpose of double skinned doors is to provide security and therefore they are installed outside. Kaiser doors offers roller shutter doors that are manufactured from the finest materials and offer customized doors that are build as per the client’s specifications.

Kaiser Doors Ltd. is a Worcestershire based manufacturer that provides comprehensive service to the customers from supply, installation to repair of the doors. You can also purchase Fire Doors, High Speed Doors, Overhead Doors, PVC curtain strips, sight dividers, radiation shield doors, traffic doors, and acoustical doors.

Chris Rimell is a well known author who write for http://www.rollershutterdoors.com

Discount Plantation Shutters - Finding Plantation Shutters Right For You


By Travis Santiago

When looking for a window covering option for the interior of your home, plantation shutters are a versatile selection for any home. These functional shutters can not only provide complete privacy, but also regulate the amount of light that can enter in the room of your choice. If a bold look is what you aim for, then Plantation shutters are the way to go.

The increasing popularity of Plantation shutters grows each day due to the flexibility that they provide for any window. With a number of assorted sizes available for almost any size or style of window, Plantation shutters can be installed in many older homes as well as the newer custom-made manufactured homes. They come in a variety of materials suitable for any décor such as wood or even plastic.

There are 4 main types of Plantation shutters to choose from when deciding on what will work with your home. Depending on the style of window you have and what your needs are, this will be your first main decision when choosing your Plantation shutters.

Full Height - these shutters are the full extent of the window and can have a horizontal divider to provide stability if they are above a certain length

Cafe Style - these shutters are manufactured for coverage of only half the window, thus allowing privacy and light to enter simultaneously

Tier-on-Tier - these shutters have independent movement on the bottom from the top to provide extensive versatility for either privacy or lighting or both depending on your needs

Solid - typically, the traditional shutter that provides ultimate coverage for privacy and security, can also come with slatted sections on the top half

Plantation shutters are available at many retailers and manufacturers without having to sacrifice beauty for cost. You will be able to find a number of basic sizes and popular styles to purchase at many depots, but if it is a custom shape or size you require, you will be more successful in special-ordering your custom Plantation shutters.

Slat sizes come in an assorted range that will allow you to choose exactly how much light you wish to have and match the style of your room in which they are placed. Starting at a size of only 32mm, you can choose 47mm, 64mm, or even 89mm. All of these shutters have material options of hinges to match your home, whether you have brass, antique brass, stainless steel and white.

Mounting is as important for your Plantation shutters as any other part of them. You can mount them as an outside mount as plain batten, art deco frame or even an L-frame. If you choose to use an inside mount, the choices are plain batten, moulded frame or Trim Z frame. Depending on how you want your shutters to sit when open and how your décor will limit the frame mounting.

After deciding on your new Plantation shutters, you will find that it will not be a decision that you will regret. They are versatile for any age of home and are well suited for any interior style.

Looking to buy some plantation shutters? Travis, the author of this article runs a site showing you where to get the best plantation shutters. Go there if you need house shutters of any kind...

A Guide to Choosing Plantation Shutters


By John T. Baker

For a striking, unique appearance, plantation shutters are a great choice for window treatments. They were a staple of Greek architecture in the 18th century, and can be seen today in architecture throughout the world.

Before glass, shutters were widely used on windows for a variety of reasons. They kept the home safe from inclement weather and provided privacy. They’re easy to open and adjust to control the flow of light and air through them.

Historically, plantation owners used these types of shutters to protect their homes, as hurricane shutters protect homes in hurricane-prone areas. The shutters added a level of protection, as the presence of these types of window coverings indicated wealth. Homes with shutters may have been targeted by bands of robbers, as well as slaves revolting against the plantation owners.

Plantation shutters are used to add a level of style to homes. Here are some things to consider before you decide on this style of window treatment:

1) Contact a professional. A carpenter will be able to determine whether your window casings are appropriate for this type of window covering. These shutters have a different weight load than other window coverings, so your windows may not be equipped to take the brunt of the shutter activity, including opening and closing them regularly. Your contractor may recommend adding additional framing to your windows to support your shutters.

2) Decide what material you’d like to use. Shutters generally come in wood and vinyl. They each have their benefits. Vinyl is easier to care for, and it won’t warp from moisture. Wood sets a warm, rich mood to any room.

3) Decide how wide the louvers will be. Louvers are the slats in the shutter that you can use to control light entry and air flow. The wider the louver, the more of each you’ll be able to admit into your home.

4) Decide what your goal is with the shutters, and choose between fixed and moveable louvers. Fixed louvers are generally for privacy and security. For more freedom to let light in or see through the shutter, the moveable louver is the more practical choice.

5) Do your research. Read what experts and consumers have to say about different shutters. You’ll find articles on this subject in magazines and on home repair and improvement websites.

6) Once you’ve made your decisions, find a reputable company to install your new shutters. Be sure they offer a warranty against not only materials but workmanship as well.

Shutters are no longer used for security, but they’re still used to beautify homes everywhere.

John C. Baker regularly creates articles on information associated to home repair. His contributions on home repair and plantation shutters are published on http://www.shades-blinds-shutters-guide.com/plantation-shutters.html

Upgrading With Plantation Shutters


By David Karlson

An excellent way to upgrade your current window coverings is to invest in plantation shutters. Whether you are looking to sell your home or just make some improvements, these shutters are popular additions to any home. They are installed on the interior of the home.

Plantation shutters are adjusted to let light in or to keep it out. They also help to keep the energy costs down and help to give the homeowners privacy. They can be installed in just about any room. Many people install them in their bathrooms or bedrooms because of their privacy features and they can allow light in when it is necessary or required.

You can purchase plantation shutters in many different types of wood or in vinyl as well. It depends on what you like; if you like the stained wood look, then obviously wood shutters would be your preference. However, many people do not like the look of wood so their best option is vinyl. Wood is generally more expensive than other materials.

As far as installing plantation shutters, this is a job that can be done by yourself. It does not require many tools. The most important factor is that you must take accurate measurements. If you are unable to install them yourself, you can find a contractor that would do the job at a reasonable price as it is not a long job.

It is important to read the instruction before beginning. Make you have all your tools and measurements handy as well. Hardware stores and home improvement centers could offer some tips for installation if you are unsure of how to begin. Once you have them installed you will be thoroughly impressed by what they add to a room. You can purchase them at just about any home improvement center or window covering specialty store. You could probably purchase them online as well. Many retailers have websites for online purchasing now.

Plantation shutters offer class, elegance, privacy and beauty to any room in your home.

Visit our site for Valuable information on installing replacement windows, Bali vertical blinds, plantation shutters, and other window covering ideas.

by D. Karlson

How To Choose And Buy High Quality Shutters For Your HomeBy Gregg Hall


By Gregg Hall

If you are in need of window shutters for your home you may be amazed and confused by the dazzling array of diverse styles and materials available in the window shutter market today. There are so many new materials being introduced it may make you wonder what is best for your home but rest assured that high quality wood shutters are still the standard for your home’s window shutters. There are a few other things you need to know before you begin shopping as well.

Basically there are two distinct styles of shutters that you really have to choose from. Traditional window shutters have very narrow shutter panels with louvers that are approximately 1-1/4 inches. These window shutters are also normally thicker in the front and more narrow in the rear resulting in a sort of wedge shape. The plantation style shutters are usually a little thicker and have larger louvers.

When it comes to the finish of your shutters you can choose them to be painted, stained or even have both. The majority of window shutter companies carry paint that is available in the same colors as stains so if you prefer paint you can still get a stained look. Stains really enhance the grain and color of wood and come in a diverse variety of tints from very light natural tones that barely stain the wood to darker ones that may be almost black. In any case these stains can only be used on real wood and shutters made of composite wood materials or synthetics cannot be stained.

Due to the variety of shutter materials and sizes the price of shutters will vary greatly and a lot of shutter manufacturers will calculate the price of window shutters on a square foot basis. Most of the time what you will see are prices calculated based upon the number of panels, the window size, finish and shutter style you have chosen.

The actual number of panels shown across the shutter depends upon the style of shutter as well as the width of the window. If you have chosen a traditional style window shutter you will use more panels across the window since these are more narrow than the plantation style shutters.

Individual companies vary in their suggestions for the amount of panels used on each window. For taller windows you may want to go with a two tiered window shutter unit that features two sets of shutters per window with one for the upper portion and one for the lower. This type of shutter unit is also referred to as double tier. What is great about this style of shutters is that each set can be opened separately so you can leave one section closed if you wish.

Gregg Hall is an author living with his beautiful wife and family in Navarre Beach, Florida. Find more about window blinds as well as window treatments at http://www.windowblindsandshadesonline.com

Plantation Shutters - Choosing Between Traditional Wood and Hi-Tech Polycore Shutters


By Julian Pollock

There are several factors that determine the functionality and the aesthetic quality of interior shutters for your windows which will make them stand out as an attractive feature of your room. These window shutters will have three modes of operation: shutter slats fully open to allow in maximum light; slats fully closed to prevent light from coming in; and with the louvers partially open to restrict and control the exterior light and view to the desired level.

In many ways the most important of these three is in the fully open mode. From the functionality point of view, the louver or shutter slat width largely determines the amount of light coming in and the ability to see outside. The thinner the louver, the more light can come in and the better the view. This thickness is determined by the strength of the material that the shutters are made of. For example blinds can be angled so that one can obtain a good view; but they lack real strength and are less aesthetically pleasing. Similarly one can obtain several types of polymer fabricated interior window shutters, but some of these have both the look and feel of flimsiness as well as plasticity. This lack of structural strength prevents the thinner, more elegant appearance that most people prefer.

There are two good options you could go for, the more traditional wood shutters or the Polycore shutters which use a new breakthrough technology of polymer construction with a metal core for the additional strength required to operate effectively. Both are elegant, aesthetically pleasing and operate smoothly -- they do their job and look good! As to which to choose, it really is up to one's own preference. Wood certainly provides the more natural and traditional look of plantation shutters. The Polycore shutters don't have such a wide range of colors, generally only coming in white, off-white and cream. However, they are well-designed and stylish as well as being considerably cheaper than the usually more desirable wooden plantation shutters.

Julian Pollock is a successful web site publisher as well as an enthusiastic DIY man, a practising accountant and a trained therapist. He has recently authored several articles on shutters in general including Polycore shutters, plantation shutters and hurricane shutters.


Wood Plantation Shutters


By Peter Emerson

Using wood has always been one of the most popular options taken by homeowners and decorators. One of the reasons for this is because furniture and fixtures of wood provide a feeling of coziness and warmth to a home. Another reason is that wood can be easily manipulated, it allows homeowners to have access to a convenient way to have custom made furniture or fixture made. As a result of this, manufacturers of various home furniture and fixtures use wood for some of the more popular home fixtures. Some examples are plantation shutters, considered as one of the more popular fixtures among homeowners and decorators as well.

Apart from the usual purposes that plantation shutters serve, which is to provide homeowners with a way to control how much light can go into their homes and to give homeowners a little privacy, there are other features of wooden shutters that have added to their popularity. Wooden shutters are also considered to be good insulators of heat and cold.

Different kinds of wood have been used to make wooden plantation shutters, resulting in different shades, colors, stains, and textures. In addition to this, there are also wooden plantation shutters that have been equipped with special features that includes UV filters. Apart from the wide selection of shutters, buyers can also gain access to some of the lowest prices on wooden plantation shutters as long as they know where to look on the Internet.

Wooden plantation shutters are successful in providing a natural, cozy, and warm feeling to a home, and continue to be a popular choice with homeowners.

Plantation Shutters provides detailed information on Plantation Shutters, Discount Plantation Shutters, Wood Plantation Shutters, Vinyl Plantation Shutters and more. Plantation Shutters is affiliated with Interior Shutters .

Plantation Shutters Add Attractiveness to Your Window Dressings


By George Davidsberg

You’ll want to measure your window and make sure that the opening is square. If it’s not square, you’ll have to taper the shutter to fit the opening.

Next you’ll have to cut the shutters to fit the square opening. If you run into the problem that you can’t find a shutter that will fit your window exactly, just purchase a shutter that is a little larger than the opening. If you have to strip more than 3/8” from the top or bottom, cut it from the left or bottom sides.

As well, if you’ll need to trim more than 3/8” inch from the sides, cut equal amounts from each side from each side.

When hinging the shutters, you’ll want to use non-mortising hinges. If your shutters are 30 inches or less in height, use two hinges. If they’re 30 – 48 inches in height, use three.

Security and protection are a great factor in choosing plantation shutters for your home, however the fact that they’re a beautiful and highly functional addition to your windows is the biggest benefit that people are finding.

So, exactly what are plantation shutters?

Basically they are louvered interior shutters that cover the entire window. While being most often made from wood, modern materials including vinyl and PVC are also being used with increasing acceptance. Plantation shutters are hinged and may be opened or closed and latched.

Some of these shutters are stationary and cannot be open or closed, however most easily do just that with the help of a louver.

Much of the time Pine is the chosen material for these shutters, and you can usually find them pre-finished and/or unfinished. If you so select to use unfinished, this will allow you to dye or paint the shutters the color that you desire.

If choosing PVC or vinyl, these panels come in a variety of colors, including white. They may be plain or have embossed wood graining. These materials are super choices for rooms with high levels of moisture or steam. They’re also great for poolrooms, bathrooms and utility rooms because of this fact.

Nowadays, you’ll use plantation shutters more for vanity, but they’re also important for both privacy and security. They’re often an excellent choice for high traffic rooms such as living rooms or dens.

There’s a particular feeling that comes from sitting or working in a room constructed of the rich warmth of wood. As well, the sunlight, ventilation and artificial lighting can all be adjusted to provide the perfect atmosphere.

George Davidsberg is writing principally for http://www.shades-blinds-shutters-guide.com, a web publication with topics around storm protection, home repair and other themes. His observations on plantation shutters are found on http://www.shades-blinds-shutters-guide.com as well as other web pages.

Plantation Shutters - Choosing a Color


By John Cherry

With most window treatment options, you have to choose from a short list of standard colors. Plantation shutters, however, offer nearly unlimited color options. They are one of the few window treatments that can be custom painted. So what color should you paint your shutters?

Match the Trim

Typically, shutters are painted to match the color of the trim around the windows. This is because shutters are usually mounted in shallow boxes called "frames" that attach directly to the casing of the window. The frame provides a surface for the shutter panels to mount to, but also visually ties the shutter to the window trim so that, with a good color match, it is hard to tell where the window casing ends and the shutters begin. This is often the objective. Custom plantation shutters are typically designed and built to appear as part of the window.

If you plan to change your trim color, you way want to consider painting the trim the new color before the shutters are installed. Don't plan on changing the color of the shutters once they are installed. Manufacturers paint shutters in a controlled environment with a paint sprayer to ensure that paint is applied evenly. Once installed, shutters will likely have to be painted by hand with a brush. This will result in a poor finish quality.

Stained Shutters

In addition to painting shutters a solid color, plantation shutters can also be stained. In most cases, stained shutters are constructed from basswood. This is a wide grained hardwood with a grain that similar in appearance to birch and, to a lesser extent, pine. Most stained wooden blinds are also made of basswood. Stained shutters generally cost between 10-20% more than shutters painted a solid color because of the additional labor involved and the requirement that they be made of stain quality wood.

Stained shutters are often used when the trim on a window is stained or in cases where the entire room is stained, like in a formal study. In such cases, the shutters can be custom matched to the stain color of the window casing. Unlike solid colors, you should not expect that the stained shutters will be a perfect match to the window trim. Wood cut from the same tree and stained at the same time with the same stain can have considerable variation from piece to piece. You should expect the shutters to be in the same stain 'color family' as the window trim.

In some cases, homeowners may consider using stained shutters against a solid color trim. For instance, a homeowner may want to match the color of cabinets, furniture, or hardwood floors in a room. Most shutter experts recommend against this because shutters are typically built and finished to appear as part of the window. The contrast between the stained shutter and the window trim set the two apart rather than tying them together.

"Duplexing"

Shutters can be painted so that they are one color on the inside and another on the outside. Duplexed shutters are typically used in cases where the outside trim color is very different from the interior trim color and the shutters are painted to match each. Most experts suggest avoiding duplexing of shutters. This is an expensive option, increasing the price by 40-60%. Additionally, the line between the two colors can be inconsistent and not entirely straight and clear.

This article was sponsored by Acadia Shutters, Inc.
Providing Atlanta shutters , Atlanta blinds and a variety of other window treatments.

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