5 Things to Know Before Buying PVC shutters for livestock houses

Go back a few centuries, before glass window panes became commonplace, and a homeowner’s shutter education was pretty straightforward. You learned the hard way: Either your house had sturdy, functional shutters installed on all your windows, or wind, rain, wild animals, thieves and prying eyes had an open invitation to come inside.

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It’s been a while since exterior shutters were such a practical necessity. Now, they’re a choice — a good one, if you ask us! — and with choices come questions. Does the type of shutters really matter? Why invest in the hinges and fancy hardware? Is there a difference between fixed mounted and functional shutters? Wait...what are fixed mounted and functional shutters, anyway?

Consider this post a kind of modern-day shutter education, a basic “Shutters 101” to read before beginning your home design journey. Come along as we discuss the two different types of shutters and separate the decorative from the real deal.

Shutter Fundamentals

No longer required for privacy and security, exterior shutters remain a highly popular, effective and relatively simple way to enhance a home’s exterior. Although shutters come in a wide variety of materials, styles, colors, and even shapes, they’re commonly installed in one of two ways:

• Fixed Mounted — These shutters are mounted flush to the home’s facade, using brackets and screws. They remain fixed in that “open” position and do not move.
• Functional — Functional shutters swing open and closed on hinges attached to the window casing with pintels.

We’ll elaborate on the differences between these installation styles in the following sections, but first, the similarities: Both fixed mounted and functional shutters can be installed with shutter hardware, such as strap hinges, locks, pull rings and tiebacks, also known as “shutter dogs.” This adds visual interest to a home’s exterior and presents a historically accurate look, even if the shutters serve a purely decorative purpose.

In either type of shutter installation, proper shutter sizing is paramount. Again, even if you never intend to close your shutters, they should always look as if they could close and cover the window. A rule of thumb when measuring for shutters: Each shutter should measure half of the window in width, and the full length of the window in height.

More About Fixed Mounted Shutters

Because low-grade vinyl shutters can only be installed this way, you might immediately associate fixed mounted shutter installations with a dull, “fake” look.

The truth is, any shutters — whether they’re made from composite wood, premium wood or high-quality PVC — can be pre-drilled with mounting holes for a fixed mounted installation. This is a more cost-effective and less labor-intensive option than fully functional shutters. Add some decorative hardware, and you’d never mistake these shutters for those tacky vinyl imitators. In other words, fixed mounted shutters are eye-catching in a good way.

Choosing functional shutters can take that incredible curb appeal to a whole other aesthetic level, but they’re not always right for every home. In fact, some homes might be better suited to fixed mounted shutters. Certain types of exterior materials and window casings aren’t conducive to fully functional hinges, so if you’re interested in adding “real shutters,” consult an expert who can guide you toward the ideal shutter solution for your specific project needs.

The Beauty (and Utility) of Functional Shutters

If you’re a stickler for authenticity and passionate about details, functional shutters are an ideal exterior accent for your home. There’s just no matching the depth, shadow lines and overall visual intrigue created by a fully functional, properly sized and professionally installed pair of shutters. Functional shutters really bring a facade to life.

Practically speaking, although it’s not necessary to do in modern times, you can choose to open or close your functional shutters. Shutters today can serve the same purpose they did centuries ago — if they’re sized and installed the right way. They can provide privacy, regulate the amount of light and heat entering the home, and control airflow in and out of windows.

From a design standpoint, functional shutters offer more than just historical accuracy. They’re a pop of personality, an extra touch of character, and can liven up any style home from traditional to contemporary.

Of course, no functional shutters are complete without shutter hardware, which is sometimes referred to as the “jewelry” of the shutter. Whether you want to go all out with pull rings and locks, have a little bit of fun with shell-shaped “shutter dogs,” or stick to a traditional “S” tieback, hardware is another authentic design detail that’s sure to delight you, your family and everyone who lays eyes on your house.

How To Choose The Right Shutters For Your Home

There’s so much to love about designing your own custom shutters; you get to pick a material, a style, a color, a cutout, the “jewelry,” and then watch it all come together in a whole new look for your home. The way you choose to install your shutters will have a significant impact on that finished look, so consider everything you learned in this post before taking the plunge on your shutter order.

You love the look of your shutters, but when there’s a misaligned louver or a crack in the frame, it’s important you know how to find the quick (and affordable ) fix. Read on for the top 5 most common plantation shutter problems and how to fix ‘em.

When it comes to plantation shutters, there’s a lot to love.

Sitting snugly on your window frame, modern window coverings can be found in a range of materials from robust aluminium to innovative composite materials. Unfortunately, they’re not immune to damage and breakdowns over time.

But there is good news!

Knowing the most common plantation shutter problems means you also know how to fix them without unnecessary repairs that drive up your cost. To ensure you enjoy their clean and crisp appearance for longer, we’ve rounded up the top 5 problems you’ll run into – plus simple tips to help you handle everything from minor damage to serious structural problems.

With over 30 years of experience, we’ve seen it all. So read on for the most common maintenance issues (and how to fix them).

Problem #1 – “My louvers are broken”

They are stylish and hardy – but they’re not indestructible.

Broken louvers can come about for a range of reasons from over-excited kids, clumsy adults, curious animals, or even environmental damage. More than an eyesore, damaged louvers can let excess light and draughts into your Brisbane home.

Generally speaking, slightly damaged louvers can be repaired with wood glue or DIY fixes. Keep in mind, they’ll never look as good as new, so you’ll need to sacrifice a few aesthetic benefits if you go for this option.

If the damage is more widespread or puts the structural integrity at risk, you’ll need to replace the broken piece and replace it with a new louver.

Lonsin supply professional and honest service.

WHAT TO DO: If you’re dealing with a busted or banged-up plantation shutter, get in touch with a member of the FKR Group team to organise a replacement. It’s easy to do more harm than good with a DIY fix, so save time and money in the long run by letting a pro handle the job.

Haven’t invested yet? Click here to compare the top pros and cons of plantation shutters

Problem #2 – “My magnets have fallen apart”

Your plantation shutter contains magnets that hold the structure in place. These crucial elements help keep the panel closed to the frame. Unfortunately, these magnets can wear down over time.

The common cause of magnet damage is UV damage – something all Queenslanders know about. Sun damage can weaken the plastic casing and/or magnets which leave your window treatment feeling loose.

WHAT TO DO: If your magnets are compromised, you’ll need to order replacement magnets and install them using a screwdriver. It’s best to chat to your local window shutter experts in Brisbane as all magnets are NOT the same. Avoid wasting money on the wrong hardware with a call to FKR Group on 872 822.

Problem #3 – “My shutters won’t stay open”

They allow you to control light and heat coming into your Brisbane home, which means a shutter that won’t stay open is a serious headache.

The most common culprit of slats that won’t stay in place comes down to loose hinges and screws. This is typically the #1 most common plantation shutter problem, but also one of the easiest to repair!

While it’s tempting to order a replacement product or start looking into a new form of window screen, there’s a good chance that a little DIY magic can have you back in control.

WHAT TO DO: Grab the nearest screwdriver and prepare to be handy. As loss of louver strength is often caused by loose screw tension, you can open your them and look for the screws on each side of the louver. This is the tension screw and a ¼ turn to the right will tighten your sagging slats (remember, “righty tighty, lefty loosey”).

Problem #4 – “My shutters are dirty and tired”

Dirty or stained window coverings aren’t *technically* a problem. But wait until you notice muck and grime on your gorgeous window coverings and tell us it’s not an urgent concern!

Living in Brisbane can mean living near salty ocean air, as well as busy suburban roads. No matter where you call home, they can become stained through environmental pollutants as well as mess made in the home.

WHAT TO DO: A little cleaning can keep them in top condition. We recommend cleaning the window coverings with a damp cloth (no chemical cleaners required). Using a microfiber cloth can help remove dust particles and allergens to support you and your family, with these covers able to help allergy-proof your windows.

FKR GROUP TIP: We’re proud to supply high-quality, moisture resistant, and hypoallergenic plantation shutters so if you’d like to spend less of your free time doing chores, and spending more time doing literally anything else, get in touch to learn more.

DID YOU KNOW? Click here to find out why white is the most popular shutter colour

Problem #5 – “My shutters look misaligned”

They are kept aligned via small plastic pins which keep each slat in place. This allows you total control over sunlight in your Brisbane home. Unfortunately, damage to these pins can leave you with a crooked window covering that’s unsightly and ineffective.

Curious kids and overly excited pets can bang window coverings and knock pins loose, so be on the lookout for small plastic pins around your windows. These spring-loaded pins slide into place and keep each louver in place, so if you’re missing pins you’ll need to reach out to your local shutter pros.

WHAT TO DO: As mentioned, you’ll need to start by making sure all spring-loaded pins are in place. If no pins are missing, misaligned slats can be the result of warping. If you are missing pins, we can provide suitable replacements so you’re not stuck squinting when the 3 pm sun fills your living room and your damaged window coverings can’t help out.

Common plantation problems to be aware of

Shutter Panel Breakage Frame Breakage Magnet Damage Misaligned Louvers PVC Broken Louver Pin Broken Shutter Staple Louver Breakage

How to keep your shutters in perfect condition

Prevention is better than a cure.

Regular cleaning and maintenance can prevent the natural wear and tear. Minor plantation shutter problems like loose screws or misplaced pins can be fixed without too much of a problem.

However, if you’re coming home and asking questions like “why won’t my window coverings open the whole way?” or “Why is the hinge on my window coverings so difficult to move?” then you should consider getting in touch with a member of the FKR Group team.

With over 30 years of helping our Brisbane clients prolong the life of their window treatment and beautify their homes, we pride ourselves on quality advice and transparent prices. Plus, with Product Warranties ranging up to 30 years and all installations covered by warranty, you may be eligible for support now and long into the future.

Get in touch on 872 822 or request a fast and FREE quote online today.

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