Plantation shutters contain slats usually measuring 2 ½ inches to 4 ½  inches wide.  The slats are set into panels ranging from 12 inches to 19 ½ inches wide and sit inside the casement of a window.  Plantation shutters are different from ordinary shutters in that the adjustable louvers of plantation shutters are usually over 2 inches wide.  The louvers allow the shutters to function in a similar fashion to horizontal blinds – giving the buyer the ability to control the amount of light and privacy by adjusting the openings of the slats. 

                               

Privacy is truly a great benefit of plantation shutters.  They can be closed partially to give indoor occupants a great deal of privacy while still allowing access to outdoor light and views or can be completely close to block off all visibility. 

Additionally, plantation shutters are known for their beauty, elegance and longevity.  Made of durable material, most manufacturers of plantation shutters promise a lifetime of use from their product.  Depending on the manufacturer plantation shutters are capable of covering any opening such as large sliding glass doors, odd shaped windows and ordinary windows.  Most manufacturers also offer the option of standard or custom made plantation shutters.  The shutters themselves can be made from wide a variety of materials including:

The hinges and hardware making up the pieces which attach the shutters to the windows also come in several options, from parts that match the shutters’ primary color to bright brass, antique brass, chrome or ordinary white.

When opting for plantation shutters follow these three steps before making a purchase:

Choose the paint color or stain of shutter.  Some woods look better stained rather than painted especially if the wood is of high quality.  If paint is used a neutral color is the most popular option.

Choose the type of mount or frame that will be used.  Shutters can be attached to the inside of the window casing with an inside mount or to the outside of the window casing with an outside mount.  Within these two options there are several smaller variables.  Some allow for easy cleaning while others have the advantage of working with tilt-opening windows. 

Choose your desired configuration (how the shutters will sit in the window).  Will there be two shutters that latch in the middle and then open, one on each side?  Or, will the two shutters be hinged so that they slide open?  The configuration choice will depend on the size and shape of the opening to be covered by the shutter and personal preference. 

Measuring for plantation shutters is extremely important but, fortunately, quite easy.  For a horizontal measurement take three separate measurements (top, middle and bottom) across the width of the window.  Use the largest of the three as a final figure.  For the proper length of the shutters measure from the top molding of the window to the top of the windowsill. 

Making the proper purchase is the next step.  Visit the store or website from where the shutters will be purchased.  Stores have charts and tables to come up with the correct sizing of the shutters that will best fit a particular space based on the measurements. 

To install the plantation shutters attach a wood shim to the top of the windowsill, this will give extra support during installation.  Hold the shutters in place and make marks where holes should be drilled.  Put shutters aside and drill holes in the window frame.  Put shutters back into place and secure them by attaching screws into freshly drilled holes.  Step back to view result and ensure it is suitable.  When satisfied, attach screw covers and decorative knobs.  

Keeping plantation shutters clean is easy.  In most cases regular dusting or a regular pass with a vacuum attachment is sufficient for keeping them clean.  Be sure to follow the owner’s manual that comes with the shutters to verify that there are no special instructions for cleaning.