An Exclusive Guide to Vinyl Plantation Shutters
Originally, vinyl shutters were seen as a niche product — only to be used on windows in rooms with high humidity or direct contact with water. Wooden shutters can only withstand this humidity for a certain amount of time and can eventually develop defects such as warping and paint peeling.
So, vinyl shutters were seen as an ideal solution to the long-lasting shutter problem. They are made from a material that is very similar to the UPVC or polyvinyl chloride that many replacement windows are made of. They are durable and strong, hardwearing, and able to last a lifetime.
The Beginning of Vinyl Plantation Shutters
As a result of concerns about direct contact with water, the popularity of shutters has skyrocketed in the UK. However, it all started in America, home to plantation shutters and the original manufacturing techniques for shutters. Historically, plantation shutters were manufactured using mostly wood. But as rubber and synthetic materials became cheaper than wood, American shutter manufacturers began experimenting with other materials to make their products.
As mentioned earlier, extruded vinyl was a material used to make plantation shutters. Sometimes the vinyl is extruded with a color dye, meaning they can offer four popular shades of white without having to paint them. It doesn’t give the best-finished product since it can look a little downmarket.
All Goodwood Shutters are painted, and they look near identical to their wood counterparts. We have a solid polyvinyl plantation shutter with an aluminum core. This core runs through all of the slats, and it prevents warping while giving our louvers that extra strength because of the lightweight metalcore. It’s nearly impossible to break a slat because of this, which makes these vinyl plantation shutters great for homes with young children.
Vinyl VS Wood: What’s The Best Option For Your Home?
With the popularity of interior window shutters rising, homeowners have been asking themselves whether they should choose vinyl or wood shutters. Here are some facts to consider when choosing your new home window shutters.
The Advantages of Vinyl Plantation Shutters
Vinyl plantation shutters are a great addition to any home because of the many benefits they provide. Here are some of the many benefits that vinyl plantation shutters provide:
10–40% Cheaper
When making major decorative decisions, choosing between standard wood shutters and the more modern vinyl plantation shutters can be an exciting choice. If you are on a budget, you can still enjoy the flexibility and beauty of shutters. Vinyl shutters are the least expensive of the shutter options that can help you save 20–40% cost compared to wooden shutters, but they still provide the same benefits, and they look marvelous.
Maintenance-Free
In the coastal areas of Sydney, vinyl plantation shutters have become one of the most popular choices for people wanting to replace their old timber windows. Since they’re made of a plastic-based material, they are easier to clean and less likely to mold or decay in a short amount of time. The maintenance-free, beautiful finish of vinyl plantation shutters is the perfect choice for those wanting new windows without the hassle of painting or cleaning them.
Dampness and Weather Resistant
Vinyl plantation shutters are not only an ideal product for the home but also for workplace environments. Commercial kitchens and food preparation areas require a high level of protection from damaging weather conditions. These durable vinyl shutters feature a protective layer that helps prevent warping and rotting due to moisture.
The Disadvantages of Vinyl Plantation Shutters
Customization limitations
When it comes to vinyl plantation shutters, you don’t get much variety in color. Vinyl plantation shutters are designed with a limited palette of neutrals that won’t be customizable to your exact specifications and tastes.
Low Bearing Performance
If you have large windows that require large shutters, vinyl won’t cut it. Vinyl doesn’t have the strength to hold itself up over large openings and sagging isn’t uncommon. Vinyl is best suited for smaller windows and openings.
The Advantages of Wood Plantation Shutters
Although wood plantation shutters tend to be more expensive, their beautiful unique grains add an earthy texture that’ll enhance the warmth and appeal of your home. Whatever the design of your interior, you can guarantee that wooden shutters will suit all.
Aesthetic Appearance
Wooden shutters have an authentic and warm appearance to them. While they are a bit more expensive than other window coverings, they add a touch of elegance that vinyl, composite, or other shutter materials lack. The different types of wood you can choose from have unique characteristics and qualities.
High Durability
Wood is a natural, hard-wearing material that lasts a long time when treated correctly. If you’ve got large windows in your home, it might be best to stick to wood plantation shutters to slow down the aging process and help prevent the sun’s harmful UV rays from beating down on your windows.
Custom-color Match
Wood shutters are available in an extensive selection of colors and finishes, ensuring that your shutter style of choice is always within reach. Each product is handcrafted by artisans from natural materials, so you can find something that matches the theme and ambiance of your home. Elegant styles will be a timeless addition to any room.
Environmentally Friendly
Eco-friendly wooden shutters are made from sustainably sourced wood, so they do not emit any VOCs. They retain their appearance over time, and there is no risk of formaldehyde exposure or smell.
The Disadvantages of Wood Plantation Shutters
Perishable to Moisture
Wooden shutters are not the best choice for rooms that experience a lot of moisture or condensation because they are not waterproof. They can warp and expand if exposed to high levels of humidity (such as in bathrooms and kitchens).
Preventive Maintenance
Since wood is an organic material, it’s vulnerable to moisture and water, which can cause it to warp, crack, or even ignite. For wooden shutters to last long, you will need to regularly clean them — this includes regular upkeep such as coatings and varnishes to keep them looking as good as new.
Tips for Choosing the Right Type of Shutters for Your Home
When choosing plantation shutters for your home, there is a multitude of factors to consider. There are various styles, colors, and features, each with advantages and disadvantages. But there are also important factors to consider when deciding between wooden shutters and vinyl shutters.
Your Budget
When purchasing window treatments, it’s important to consider the total cost of ownership. Even if you purchase lower-quality blinds or shades to just save money now, you may end up spending more in the long run if you need to replace them in a few years. Whether you choose vinyl or wood, having a high-quality shutter will be your best choice in the long run. If cost isn’t an issue, then you can go with whichever type suits your decor best!
Shutter Size
The size of your shutters will determine which material is most suitable. Smaller shutters give you more options. Both vinyl and wood will work well. Larger shutters, on the other hand, need more stability and durability which limits your options. Wood is much stronger than vinyl. Large vinyl shutters will warp and sag over a short period.
Your Climate
Different climates have different humidity levels, and they affect the durability of shutters. Wood is the most popular material, but if you live in an environment with a lot of water and humidity, it’s probably not your best bet. A vinyl shutter is a good alternative since it doesn’t react to humidity as much.
Aesthetics
Finally, select a color and style that matches your home’s decor. Consider the shutter tilt, color, and texture. Older homes look better with a traditional black and white pattern, meanwhile, modern homes do well with a vibrant blue or red pattern. If you haven’t yet made a decision on shutters, take the time to find a style that matches your home’s design.
The Best Brands of Plantation Shutters in China
If you’re looking for a durable and affordable window covering, look no further than waterproof vinyl plantation shutters. These types of plantation shutters are virtually impervious to excessive heat and moisture, making them perfect for bathrooms or other rooms with a high risk of moisture.
Our vinyl plantation shutters range comes in four different kinds of white colors and is manufactured from solid poly components with an aluminum core running through the entire shutter. The paint on the shutters has been baked onto the surface of the components in an industrial oven. This method ensures a long-lasting glossy finish, guaranteed never fade, chip or yellow.
Goodwood Shutters is a China-based plantation shutters factory with highly efficient production facilities in Xiamen, Shanghai, and Shandong, enabling us to offer services promptly to our international clients. Servicing window coverings trade suppliers, resellers, and millwork manufacturers.
