Tuesday, January 24, 2012

Styles and Trends in Plantation Shutters


Window blinds are helpful in preventing excessive outdoor light from coming in or from exposing a private indoor space. Aside from being practical, blinds are also stylish. They can be the perfect accent to any interior design. This is why some people can be quite particular about the shutters of their homes. A popular type of blinds, plantation shutters have been around and appreciated for centuries. Aside from letting a cool breeze on a summer night pass right through, plantation shutters lend rooms a chic look.



In the UK, plantation shutters have been popular for 12 years now and the trend is only expected to continue. Originally from the U.S., plantation shutters were introduced to the Australian market in the 1980’s. Later on, Australia took inspiration from Asian-style shutters that are movable and are used in place of entire walls to create more passage for cool winds. Because of the affordability and practicality that shutters provide, Australians have embraced the interior window shutter trend. They have likewise made minimalist interior design more popular, increasing the demand for plantation shutters and other ready-made blinds.

The Blind Factory, a Melbourne-based premier distributor of plantation shutters and other ready-made blinds, shares a few pointers on styles and trends for plantation shutters.
  • Wood shutters - These traditional shutters are made from wood, but their construction and material make them the most expensive. These are usually crafted from basswood or hardwoods and are ideally used to accentuate rooms with wooden floors and furniture.
  • Faux shutters - A cheaper alternative to wood, faux shutters are made from plastic or polyvinyl. Routine maintenance is required though because of its tendency to fade under direct sunlight. They are typically used for rooms with a modern design or feel.
  • MDF shutters - Also cheaper than wood, but more expensive than faux shutters, MDF or medium density fiberboard shutters mimic the appearance of wood. They have the aesthetic appeal of wood, but come with a more affordable price tag.

Providing great decor solutions for the home or office, outstanding customer service, and world-class product range that are second to none in quality and price, The Blind Factory is definitely the best supplier of plantation shutters and other ready-made shutters in Melbourne. If you’re in search of designer quality at factory prices, you should check out The Blind Factory’s extensive inventory.

Thursday, January 12, 2012

All Weather Plantation Shutters: Strong and Durable

Plantation shutters often have a wide wooden valence, the width of the slats offer varying degrees of light control when tilted. Plantation shutters also have a weighted bottom that keeps them from swaying freely in the wind. Since wide wood slats will not easily warp, crack, fade or give into the elements.





Plantation shutters are strong enough to endure the worst of storms.No wonder plantation shutters are popular in hurricane pathways like Florida and New Orleans. These type of shutters are often used in basements, laundry areas, bathrooms, pantries and kitchens.






Plantation blinds are available in many sizes, materials and attractive colors. Ready to complement any room in the home while providing protection and light control.

Wednesday, January 4, 2012

How to Order Plantation Blinds

Plantation Shutters can last you a lifetime and they very well should, they are an investment for your home.
So how does one go about ordering custom-fitted Plantation shutters?


There are many hassle-free ways to do so and ordering Plantation blinds can also be a cinch:



Measure your Windows. The idea of measuring windows need not be cumbersome, if you can't measure the dimensions up to the exact centimeter. Fret not, not every homeowner can do so, so at least have an approximate measurement of your window. This will give your shutter consultant a basic guideline to price your quote.


Get an Estimate. Most shutter companies offer a range of services ranging from a free consultation, personal home visit to check out your windows or give online blinds advice and inclusive blinds quotations. Here you will be given guidelines on what kind of shutter configuration and even the right shutter panels that will suit your windows.





Work within a Budget. After getting your blinds estimate, know your options and your limits. Know the number of windows that need the shutters and how much will all of that cost you? Also expect that there will be a downpayment with the shutter contractor.


Know your Timeline.  Make sure you have everything clear with your shutter contractor- the period of the delivery date and blinds installation and the definite cost of the project.


Ordering Plantation blinds for your home should not be stressful at all. It should be the highlight of your home make-over phase.

Sunday, January 1, 2012

View the World through Plantation Shutters

Anchored and stately, Plantation blinds are the all-weather solution for protecting your windows. They are made to stand the test of time while giving your window treatments that cozy and comfy feel. Plantation shutters can create that focal point that does not need fancy curtains or gaudy drapery.


For interesting variety, plantation shutters can be made to measure to cover even complicated openings including arches, angled windows, Palladian windows, circles, french doors, hexagons, sliding doors and patio doors.



If you have a great window or view, flaunt it! Secure it with a stable set of classic Plantation shutters.