An Interior Window Shutters purchasing step-by-step guide
What to Look for When Buying Interior Window Shutters
1. Interior Shutters have proper louver tension
The interior shutters louvers should be smooth and stay in the desired position throughout the lifetime of the window shutters. Various tension techniques are discussed on our louver tension page.
2. Interior Shutters are built from a quality material
Wood is the most preferable material for building interior shutters. Most all materials for building window shutters are discussed on our shutter material page.
3. Shutters are purchased from reliable company
You should research the company from which you plan to purchase your custom interior shutters. The shutter company need to be a reputable, knowledgeable, support oriented, and accessible. We recommend you test their knowledge by asking questions about interior shutters. Check out their credibility with an organization such as the Better Business Bureau, and check to see if they have a list of customer comments or references. The shutter company needs to be prepared to communicate all of the necessary information to you about purchasing interior shutters. They need to have a staff who is experienced with measring and installing window shutters and available for technical questions. It is frustrating when the only knowledgeable person is always "in the field".
Shutter Tip:
As with any other major purchase, ask for references. A company that can not supply references may not have the experience or qualifications for your job. Online companies may post comments from customers on their web site like the ones at ShutterLand Exterior Shutters.
4. Shutters are mortised for hinges
Mortised shutter hinges are important to achieve a tight fit within your window opening. Without a mortised custom shutter panel, a gap appears on the hanging side that allows light to break between the shutter panel and the window jamb. It should not be necessary to mortise the window jamb.
5. Shutters use rabbeted stiles between panels
Rabbeted stiles between interior shutter panels reduces light breaks between panels. A significant gap is created in between shutter panels that are simply butted up against one another.
6. View a shutter sample
The custom shutter company should be able to supply you with a finished sample interior shutter. This way you can view the quality of construction and finish first-hand. It is beneficial for you also to hold the shutter in the window to visualize how the shutters will attach and look in your house.
7. Shutters should have quality finish
A quality paint or stain finish is essential to the overall satisfaction with your interior shutter purchase. A paint finish should be smooth, thick, and complete. You should be unable to feel the wood grain and it should show through the paint. A stain finish should be even with a proper top protective coat.
8. Custom built for each individual window
There are no standard windows. A proper custom interior shutter unit needs to be built for each individual window opening to the 1/16 inch. Any more will result in possible unnecessary gaps in the interior shutter unit. Do not assume that because two or more windows look the same, that they are the same. Many times proper measuring will show that each window is unique.