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.

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.

Wood or MDF Shutters?

Plantation shutters are increasingly gaining popularity in the UK as more homeowners discover the benefits of the window covering. However, with many different options available, it can be hard to know which shutter option is best.

The two commonly used materials are wood (namely, basswood and paulownia hardwood) and MDF (medium-density fibreboard) – but what’s the difference between the two and which should you opt for in your own home?

Note: although wood and MDF are the most popular materials used to manufacture window shutters, there are many more materials to consider. But for now, this blog post weighs up the pros and cons of both wood and MDF shutters to help you decide between the two.

Wood Shutters

Pros

  • Wood is stronger than MDF making it more suitable for larger openings where a more sturdy fixture is required (i.e. doorways and bay windows)
  • A natural material, the different grains and finishes of wood can add charm and authenticity to your shutters
  • Wood is lighter than MDF and is, therefore, easier to use and install
  • Different types of wood is available, each coming with a variety of individual qualities and benefits
  • Wood comes with various colours and finishes to suit any style of home interior

Cons

  • Due to the high quality of the material, wood is pricier than MDF
  • Susceptible to humidity, wood shutters are not suitable for rooms that are humid (i.e. bathrooms and kitchens)

MDF

Pros

  • Made from various different woods and topped with a plastic coating, MDF shutters are a lot more durable than wood shutters
  • MDF shutters have a natural appearance and can be difficult to distinguish from expensive real wood options
  • As MDF shutters have a plastic coating they’re a lot easier to clean
    Cheaper than wood, MDF shutters are a great choice for people on a budget

Cons

  • MDF is available in fewer colours than wood
  • MDF heavier than wood and harder to install
  • Somewhat less flexible than wood, MDF shutters have limited placement options available when it comes to intricate shapes and designs

 

For more information on wood, MDF and other shutter options available, or to book your free no obligation in-house survey, contact us today on 0203 960 6963. All shutters come with a 5-year guarantee.

3 Eco-Friendly Benefits of Window Shutters

Most people want their homes to be a little bit greener and a part of this process is learning about the environmental effects of products and the impact over time. So how do window shutters score on the environmental scale?

Shutters boast a range of environmental benefits compared to other window treatments, i.e. curtains and blinds. Here are some environmental factors to keep in mind when choosing your window dressings:

1. Insulation

Windows are a culprit for heat loss. A great way to reduce your household energy usage and cut down your bills is to install window shutters. When internal shutters are closed they seal the window completely leaving no gaps, ensuring that no heat escapes through the window.

2. Sustainable materials

Real wood and PVC are the most common materials used for shutters and are both known for being eco-friendly and sustainable. Unlike curtains and blinds that require constant repair and replacement, shutters are made of more durable materials and can last at least 20 years without a problem.

3. Natural lighting

The main appeal of shutters over different kind of window treatments is their ability to control light. Shutters are a great way to limit the amount of natural light without removing it completely, as such, the need for artificial lighting is reduced.

 

For more information on the eco-friendly benefits of windows shutters, or to book your no obligation in-house survey, contact Totally Shutters today on 0203 960 6963. All shutters come with a 5-year guarantee.