Plantation Shutters have grown in popularity in recent years, making their way into many homes across Australia. But, what is it about them that has made them so fiercely competitive? Are they really that different from regular shutters? And are they more expensive? If so, why?
In this article, we’re going to take a closer look at plantation shutters, how they differ from standard shutters, and whether they are really worth all of the hype or not.
If you’ve been thinking about adding plantation shutters to your property but you aren’t quite sure if it’s worth it, this is the article for you.
What is the difference between shutters and plantation shutters?
What is the difference between normal shutters and plantation shutters? Are they worth the hype?
Greater variety and customisation
Plantation shutters are wonderful window decorations and protectors. Unlike the more traditional shutter type that you will be used to, plantation shutters offer a much wider variety in terms of colour, size, design style, and materials. It is this greater variety that makes plantation shutters a preferred alternative over regular shutters.
Multi-functional
One of the most unique and defining features of the plantation shutter is the fact that when they are open they allow in plenty of air and natural light; however, when closed they can block the view entirely thus providing absolute privacy.
Ideal for large windows
Plantation shutters boast wider louvers (slats) when compared to the smaller, narrow louvers of their counterpart: traditional shutters. This is why plantation shutters work even better with larger windows: because the slats are adjustable and thus it is easier to control how much light is allowed through.
Different materials
Plantation shutters are available to purchase in a wide variety of different materials, each with its own unique advantages and disadvantages (durability, affordability, etc.).
The most preferred material for plantation shutters tends to be aluminium. This is because the material is light, it will not rust, and it provides a highly durable finished product.
Additionally, plantation shutters are available in materials like PVC, composite wood, and fibre. As such, you will surely be able to find the ideal plantation shutters to suit your tastes and requirements.
Enhanced security features
Plantation shutters are highly durable and can provide superior security for your home. Being easily lockable and reinforced, they eliminate any need to have window bars installed.
Are plantation shutters more expensive?
Plantation shutters are more expensive than normal shutters, but with good reason; they are a far superior product.
The exact cost of plantation shutters varies significantly depending on a wide variety of factors:
- Where you are located
- What material you are opting for
- The number of windows being fitted.
- The size of your windows
- Whether you want to install them yourself
Typically, you can expect to pay somewhere between $300 and $500 AUD for a standard sized window.
Installation costs for plantation shutters may either be charged at an hourly rate or a fixed price. In any case, independent contractors tend to charge around $70 to $100 AUD per hour for the installation of plantation shutters.
To give you a rough idea, in Australia you can expect to pay an average of $2,200 to $3,600 for plantation shutters in your home – averaging approximately $20 per square foot.
Conclusion
Let’s summarise. Plantation shutters are different from standard shutters because:
- They provide a greater variety of customisation
- They’re multi-functional
- They’re better suited to larger windows
- Available in a variety of different materials
- They have a better aesthetic appearance
- in Australia, you can expect to pay an average of $2,200 to $3,600 for plantation shutters in your home – averaging approximately $20 per square foot.
As you can see, while both traditional shutters and plantation shutters boast their own unique characteristics, plantation shutters are the clear winner. They are modern; available in a greater variety of shapes, colours, sizes, and materials; they provide enhanced security, and they can fit every window both inside and out.
We hope that you have found this article helpful. If you have made your decision and want to explore your options for plantation shutters, we highly recommend that you find a reputable supplier like Perth’s Boutique Plantation Shutters to carry out some further research.
