Plantation shutters are highly desirable window treatments because of their stylish and timeless aesthetic. They suit both traditional and modern architecture and can work in all rooms of the home from bedrooms and bathrooms to living and dining areas.
If you’ve decided on shutters for your home, the next major decision is to choose whether you’d like timber or PVC shutters. Beyond their look, there are some key differences between the two materials. We’ll share with you the pros and cons of wood and PVC shutters so you can decide which window treatment will suit your home best.
Timber Plantation Shutters Pros
Timber plantation shutters offer a classic design aesthetic that suits a variety of interiors. Made from basswood, timber shutters are highly sturdy, resistant to warping and can be painted in an array of colours or stained for a natural finish. As most homeowners desire a painted finish that matches the trim of the room, we offer timber shutters in 5 Dulux colours that fit seamlessly with a variety of interiors.
Timber shutters are extremely strong whilst also significantly lighter in weight than those made of PVC. Not only does this allow for greater durability, it also allows for the shutters to be of a greater width without the risk of sagging. Extending up to 1000mm, wood shutters can fit most modern and traditional windows without the need of using additional panels. This achieves a much cleaner look and enhances the view without compromise.
The timber used to make plantation shutters is harvested from trees specifically grown for the manufacturing of the window treatment. This makes them a more environmentally conscious product over PVC and aluminium which has a high carbon footprint.
Timber shutters are also considered one of the best window treatments for insulation. They’ll help to keep your home cool in the hot summer months and warm in winter. The finish of the timber is also splash resistant, allowing them to be used in bathrooms and laundries where water may come into contact with the louvres.
Our timber plantation shutters also come with a 10-year warranty which guarantees the quality and workmanship.
Timber Plantation Shutters Cons
As a more superior and desirable product, timber plantation shutters command a slightly higher price than PVC shutters.
Just as the paintwork in your home needs refreshing, timber shutters may require repainting or touch-ups over time. Typically, this won’t be required for about 15 years and is a relatively easy process to undertake.
PVC Plantation Shutters Pros
PVC (polyvinyl chloride) plantation shutters are designed to resemble timber shutters. This plastic is known for its durability and light-weight characteristics. However, PVC plantation shutters are reinforced with an aluminium core to prevent warping. This added weight means PVC shutters are only available up to 700mm wide. They also are slightly less expensive than timber shutters, making them an option for those who are budget conscious.
Their solid construction and 2-pack paint finish is waterproof and ensures they won’t crack or peel over time. This is why they are commonly used in wet areas where they come in direct contact with water, such as next to a shower. PVC shutters are UV protected so fading won’t occur and they are fire resistant compliant.
PVC Plantation Shutters Cons
PVC shutters are heavier than timber which limits the width to 700mm. As most modern windows are 900mm wide, you would require two panels of shutters to correctly fit the expanse. This configuration compromise will impact the seamless, clean look shutters are renowned for. They’ll also interfere with the view when the louvres are open.
While the 2-pack paint finish is highly durable, in the event scratches or dents occur, unlike timber shutters repairing the louvres isn’t possible.
PVC shutters also have a distinct plastic look which may work aesthetically in a bathroom or laundry, however, they tend to look inferior to quality timber shutters in living rooms, dining spaces and bedrooms.
Timber or PVC shutters – which type of shutter would be best?
Both timber and PVC shutters are popular forms of window treatment to use in the home. PVC shutters are a great product to use in wet areas that will be exposed directly to water, such as a shower. Windows is bathrooms are typically smaller which also ensures you don’t need to sacrifice style due to panel configurations.
Timber plantation shutters are an excellent product for other areas of the home such as living rooms and bedrooms. They offer a high-quality appearance, value for money and are incredibly durable.
To find out how affordable timber plantation shutters can be, get an instant quote here.