What are Shaker Panel Shutters?

Shaker panel shutters are another name for solid panel window shutters and are the ideal solution for making a stylish statement in any home or workplace.

Every property type will benefit from shaker panel shutters as they give the windows the ‘wow’ factor. From a practical point of view, shaker panel shutters are easy to maintain and clean.

Shaker shutter styles

There are two main styles of shaker panel shutters. The first being completely solid, giving a stunning period feel to a room. The second has a louvred top section which can be opened separately, giving more control over light and privacy levels.

Shaker shutters for windows

Perfectly suited for period houses and character cottages, shaker panel shutters offer a beautiful, more traditional style. The solid panel, with no operative louvres, can be opened or closed for a perfect combination of both light and privacy options.

Alternatively, with a louvred top section, shaker panel shutters can maintain complete privacy while allowing natural light to enter your home. Ideal for homes that face onto a street or high-traffic areas.

The perfect solution for fitted wardrobes

Clothing when hanging in a wardrobe needs air, otherwise they can acquire a stale odour. Shaker panel shutters with louvred sections are ideal for wardrobes as it helps ventilate the inside without being able to see the clothes inside.

Shaker panel shutters look amazing as wardrobe doors. As they are made from high-quality hardwood, they are available in a wide range of colours and stains to blend in with any decor, giving your bedroom that very special look.

 

If you would like more information on shaker panel shutters or would like to book your free no obligation in-house survey, contact us on 0203 960 6963. All plantation shutters from Totally Shutters come with a 5-year guarantee.

Shutters for Christmas

Summer is over, and with less than 100 days until Christmas, your thoughts may be turning to how you can transform your home in time for the festive season. The answer – give your house the gift that keeps on giving with shutters for Christmas.

Enjoy the festive season in style

Your home plays a large part at Christmas. It’s the place where family and friends share gifts around the tree, sit down for a traditional dinner with all the trimmings, and cosy up around the fireplace playing games and sharing stories.

Shutters give you the perfect place to display cards, tinsel and decorations, and make a beautiful backdrop for the tree. As they give maximum light and privacy control, you will be able to adjust the louvres during the evenings, allowing those sparkling Christmas lights to be seen from the outside while maintaining your privacy inside.

As shutters have excellent insulation qualities, they will help keep your home warm and cosy while helping lower your utility bill. Plantation shutters really do add the perfect finishing touch to your home at Christmas and all year round.

 

If you order your made-to-measure shutters before Monday, 7th October, not only will you will guarantee installation before the festive period begins but up to 20% off your bill too.

For more information on shutters for Christmas, or to book your free no obligation in-house survey, contact Totally Shutters on 0203 960 6963. All bathroom shutters come with a 5-year guarantee. T&C’s apply.

The Pros and Cons of Tier on Tier Shutters

Like full height shutters, tier on tier shutters cover the entire window. However, tier on tier shutters have independently opening top and bottom panels allowing for maximum light and privacy control. As a result, tier on tier shutters are the perfect solution when privacy is a concern and optimum lighting is a necessity.

Here are the pros and cons of tier on tier shutters to help you decide:

Pros of tier on tier shutters:

  • Maximum privacy and light blockage
  • Two separate opening sections to allow you to open and close the top panels for light and privacy control
  • Provide extra insulation to help keep out the hot and cold temperatures
  • Multiple configurations available
  • Available in a range of materials, colours and slat sizes

Cons of tier on tier shutters:

  • Not suitable for all windows

Tier on tier shutters are widely used in Victorian properties that look directly onto the street. However, they are a great option for all ground floor rooms and bay windows. Typically, narrow panels have been used on tier on tier shutters, but in recent years, more homeowners are opting for larger slats – an effect that is both flexible and stunning.

 

For more information or advice on made-to-measure tier on tier shutters, contact Totally Shutters today on 0203 960 6963. We can give you advice on tier on tier shutters and the best window solution for you as well as book you in for a free no obligation in-house survey. All tier on tier shutters from Totally Shutters come with a 5-year guarantee as standard.

The Pros and Cons of Solid Shutters

Traditionally used in Victorian homes, solid shutters are built with solid inserts instead of louvres. The beauty of solid shutters is not only their look but their simplicity. Solid shutters are increasing in popularity as more and more people are discovering the excellent benefits the window covering brings.

Here are the pros and cons of solid shutters to help you decide:

Pros of solid shutters:

  • Near blackout solution, blocking out 99% sunlight
  • Maximum privacy and outdoor noise blockage
  • Extremely efficient at insulating the home
  • Incredibly durable and easy to clean
  • Increase the value of your home
  • Available in different styles, materials and finishes

Cons of solid shutters:

  • Less flexible than other solutions, they are either open or closed
  • There are no louvres to adjust privacy or light

Solid shutters are incredibly popular in Victorian properties as homeowners look to restore their home’s period features. They are also incredibly popular in bedrooms where a blackout solution is required. A stylish yet traditional option, solid shutters come in a range of hardwood and finishes,

 

For more information or advice on made-to-measure solid shutters, contact Totally Shutters today on 0203 960 6963. We can talk through the different solid shutter options available, give you advice on the best window solution for you and book you in for a free no obligation in-house survey. All solid shutters from Totally Shutters come with a 5-year guarantee.

Shutters for Conservatory Windows

Shutters are the best treatment for conservatory windows as they regulate light and glare while looking stylish too. Shutters look good from the inside and out, helping to increase the kerb appeal of your home too.

Shutters for conservatory roofs and windows

Shutters can be fitted to both the conservatory’s windows and roof, so there’s no need to mix treatments within the room. If your conservatory includes windows that aren’t of a standard shape, don’t worry, our shutters are made-to-measure and will fit any window shape including angled versions.

What are the advantages of shutters in a conservatory?

Shutter slats are adjustable allowing you to control the amount of light that enters the room. This will allow you to keep the room at the right temperature, making your conservatory usable all summer long. And, shutters provide an extra layer of insulation on the windows in wintertime.

With shutters, conservatory furniture will last longer as they won’t be damaged by sun rays. Shutters won’t deteriorate in the sunlight either, so they’re a better investment compared to the cost of conservatory blinds.

 

For more information made-to-measure shutters for conservatories, or to book your free no obligation in-house survey, contact Totally Shutters today on 0203 960 6963. All conservatory shutters from Totally Shutters come with a 5-year guarantee.

What is the Best Treatment for Small Windows?

Sidelight windows or long, thin windows are often added to hallways and living rooms to artfully add illusion. However, if you have sidelight windows or small windows, you may be left wondering what window covering is best to stop sun glare, heat loss and privacy. Don’t fear, we’ve got you covered.

Avoid treatments that obscure the window’s use

Most of the time, small windows have a specific use. When situated high in the room, a small square window brings light into the room without compromising the structure. Whereas, sidelight windows around a door add light into the entryway and let you see who’s at the door.

You don’t want a window treatment that is ill-fitting or covers the entire window. Ideally, your window treatment should be able to let you see outside while keeping privacy levels high and let in the sun while blocking out the light when glare is bad.

Use plantation shutters for small windows

Small windows will benefit from a treatment that is custom-made. As plantation shutters are custom-made, they will fit snugly in small windows. Plantation shutters accentuate the uniqueness of your windows by letting sun flow through while complimenting the house they were built for.

With plantation shutters, you can shut the louvres to avoid the sun’s glare or to let sunlight in while maintaining privacy levels. With shutters, you can dress all windows with the same shutter style to make the entire room look cohesive.

 

Totally Shutters can help you find the right made-to-measure shutters for your small or big windows. As part of our in-house survey, our experts will come to your house and take measurements of your windows. Call 0203 960 6963 for more information on our shutter blinds. All shutter blinds from Totally Shutters come with a 5-year guarantee.

Get Your House Summer Ready

Summer is around the corner. Along with a new season comes a change in weather, harmful UV rays that can damage wooden surfaces and sweltering heat that can drive your utility bill through the roof. But don’t fear, we’ve got you covered. Here are 4 ways to get your house ready for the Summer:

1. Clean and declutter

It’s time to for a spot of last-minute ‘Spring cleaning’ and chuck out everything you no longer need. If there is anything that needs fixing or replacing, it’s the perfect time to start the new season with new or refreshed things. As the weather gets warmer it’s a great time to make your home safe again by getting rid of all the mould, dust and dirt.

2. Tend your garden

During the winter months, your garden can often get a little neglected. It’s time to dust off your lawn mower and give your grass a cut, remove the weeds and trim back the trees. It’s also the perfect time to clean off your barbecue and freshen up your outdoor space.

3. Clean the gutters

During the winter month’s the weather can be harsh. It’s important to clean out your gutter from the Autumn leaves. Cleaning the gutter can be a tough job but it ensures the water in the downpipes aren’t blocked and are flowing nicely preventing any water build up.

4. Install shutters

Shutters are a great way to cool your home and cut down your air-con bill. Plantation shutters reduce the heat coming through your windows while adding characters to your window and your home. With shutters, you can keep your windows open and keep the airflow coming through while maintaining privacy levels.

 

For more information on installing made-to-measure shutters in your home this Summer, or to book your free no obligation in-house survey, contact Totally Shutters today on 0203 960 6963. All shutters from Totally Shutters come with a 5-year guarantee.

Before and After Plantation Shutters

Made-to-measure plantation shutters are a big commitment. Although attractive, they can come with a hefty price tag which can make you want to consider other window covering options.

However, there are a number of compelling reasons to opt for shutter blinds over drapes or blinds. They have a clean contemporary look, enhancing your home and kerb appeal. And many homeowners find shutters a plus when comparing potential homes which can make your investment pay off in the long run.

If you’re still on the fence on shutters, here are a few of our favourite before and after pictures from the archives:

Full height shutters

 

 

 

 

 

 

Full height shutters installed in London.

Full height shutters cover the whole window providing both privacy and elegance. They are ideal for almost any room and can be used to cover doors as well as windows.

Cafe style shutters

 

 

 

 

 

 

Ash white cafe style shutters installed in London.

Cafe style shutters cover the bottom portion of the window, leaving the top open for maximum light. They are a great choice for scenic rooms which require privacy over light reduction.

Shutters installed in a bay window

 

 

 

 

 

 

Grey shutters installed in a bay window in Kent.

Plantation shutters lend themselves to bay windows, adapting to the shape in a way no other furnishing can. Whether you have a curved, angled or box bay, made-to-measure shutters will beautifully fit the window and enhance its features.

 

If you want to transform the look of your home, look no further than plantation shutters. For more information on shutters or to book your free no obligation in-house survey, call Totally Shutters today on 0203 960 6963. All shutters from Totally Shutters come with a 5-year guarantee.

A Guide to Shutter Repair

Plantation shutters are one of the best investments you can make for your home. Not only do they look fantastic, they’re built to last and add value to your property. And at Totally Shutters they’re made-to-measure and installed by a professional, ensuring minimal problems in years to come.

It’s rare when problems arise, but when they do, you need to know how to fix them. Shutter repair can be daunting, often raising more questions than solutions. This guide aims to simplify shutter repair, addressing solutions to some of the most common shutter problems:

Broken louvre

Although wooden louvres are strong and sturdy, there’s always a chance that one may break. And not only is a broken louvre unsightly, but it can reduce the functionality of the entire shutter.

Broken louvres are best replaced by professionals who will measure the louvre and install a new one easily without removing the entire set of shutters.

Dislodged louvre

Even when installed by a professional, louvres can slip out of place. A dislodged louvre makes the shutter aesthetically unattractive and can reduce light and cold protection.

Louvres are held in place by louvre pins. If the louvre pin is still intact and in place, you can use a flathead screwdriver to hold down the pin while you reinsert the louvre. If the louvre pin is missing, you will need to get a replacement before reinstalling the louvre. Although you can do this repair yourself, it can be tricky so you might want to call a professional to do the job.

Louvres won’t stay open

Over time, shutters with louvres can have a problem staying open due to the tension of the louvres. Located on the outside of your shutter panels, tension screws are used to keep the louvres open and can be adjusted if the louvres keep closing. Simply use a screwdriver to tighten the tension screws.

Wood rot

Wood rot is a fungus that thrives in damp environments, often affecting bathroom and kitchen shutters. If not treated quickly, wood rot can spread, damaging the entire set of shutters and causing a costly problem.

If wood rot has damaged a small section of your shutter, you can fix it yourself by using a screwdriver to chip away the rotten area before adding some auto body filler to the damaged area and repainting. If the wood rot is widespread, you will need a professional’s advice.

 

For more information on shutter repair, call Totally Shutters on 0203 960 6963. If you have a set of made-to-measure shutters from Totally Shutters and one of the above issues has occurred, get in touch today and we will amend your shutters as part of our 5-year guarantee.

Shutters for Loft Windows

Converting the loft is a great way to add space and a new lease of life to your home. If you’re in the process of planning to convert your loft to create a new bedroom, home office or extra living space, it’s important to finish the new room off with the best window treatment available.

Here’s why shutters are the best treatment for loft windows:

Loft windows often aren’t the easiest of windows to dress. With a dormer conversion, you may find great difficulty in hanging curtains. The way curtains have to be hung with a pole could end up blocking some of the light, making your new room dark and gloomy.

If you’ve opted for skylights instead of dormer windows, you may wonder whether you need to leave the windows uncovered, resulting in a room that feels exposed. Or you may feel blinds are the only option for skylights. And just like curtains, blinds can make your room feel dull.

The solution to dressing loft windows isn’t struggling with a bulky curtain or dull blind but rather made-to-measure shutter blinds. Custom made for each window, shutters fit perfectly and with easily adjustable slats, allow for maximum light and privacy control.

Shutters are great for creating comfort in loft space. In winter, they help keep the space snug as they provide extra insulation. Meanwhile, in summer, when a loft space can become overheated, it’s simple to open the window and manoeuvre the slats to prevent direct sunlight while maintaining air flow.

 

From period houses to modern properties, shutters look great in all types of loft conversions and styles of homes and help improve your kerb appeal. For more information on shutters for lofts, call us on 0203 960 6963 to book your free no obligation in-house survey. All shutters come with a 5-year guarantee.