Shutters are the only window treatment available that are specifically designed to last the lifetime of your home. In light of this fact, there are certain considerations that should be taken into account before deciding which shutters to own and which company to use to acquire these elegant window coverings.
A shutter should be produced from quality materials. Solid wood is the preferred type of shutter. Basswood is known for strength, durability and its light-weight nature. It is environmentally-friendly, and unlike plastic shutters, is not reliant on the world’s oil supply for its production. Make the company show you from what material a shutter is made.
The finish is very important. It should be smooth, solid, complete and it should be consistent from panel-to-panel. You should not be able to feel the wood grain and the finish should be even. With painted shutters, ask the company how the paint is applied and how many layers of paint are on the surface.
Proper tensioning of the louvers is critical. Louvers should have a smooth operation and should stay in any desired position throughout the lifetime of the shutter. Ask the company what type of warranty they provide on their louver system. It should be a warranty that makes you confident that the system and its components will stand up to the test of time.A shutter should have rabbeted stiles. Rabbeted stiles overlap where they meet instead of simply butting up against each other. This provides the best look.
Ask to view a sample shutter. A custom shutter company should always be able to supply a finished sample of their product. This sample should demonstrate the quality of construction and the finish. It should allow you to feel the louver tension and the smoothness of its operation. It is also beneficial to see the sample to help visualize how the shutter will look in your individual home. Proper measuring is also very important and all windows should be measured. Never assume that two windows that look alike are the same size. All windows are unique. Do your research. Find out why basswood is the best material for shutters. Ask companies what their lead-time is and ask where their shutters are manufactured. Estimates should be free and prices should include installation. And ask for the warranty. A company should be proud to stand behind its product.
For more information and to purchase quality, custom-fit, solid basswood shutters, call CountryView Shutters at 800-980-7838. Serving Santa Clarita and beyond.