Plastic House Shutters: Ultimate Guide 2024
Plastic House Shutters: The Ultimate Guide to Enhancing Your Home
When it comes to window treatments that combine functionality, style, and affordability, plastic house shutters stand out as a popular choice for homeowners across North London. At North London Shutters and Blinds, we understand their appeal, even as we specialise in premium wood alternatives. With over 15 years of expertise, our team is dedicated to helping you find the perfect shutters that suit your needs, whether you’re drawn to the low-maintenance benefits of plastic or the timeless elegance of our handcrafted wood options. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll dive into everything you need to know about plastic house shutters—from their benefits and installation to maintenance tips and design ideas.
What Are Plastic House Shutters?
Plastic house shutters are exterior or interior window coverings made from durable synthetic materials such as vinyl or composite plastics. Unlike traditional wood shutters, these are engineered to withstand harsh weather conditions, making them ideal for both indoor and outdoor use. They come in various styles, including louvred, panel, and board-and-batten designs, allowing homeowners to customise their look to match their home’s architecture.
While our core focus is on sustainably sourced wood plantation shutters, we recognise that plastic house shutters offer a budget-friendly alternative for those seeking quick and easy solutions. These shutters are lightweight, moisture-resistant, and require minimal upkeep—perfect for busy households. If you’re weighing up your options, visit our shutters and blinds overview page to explore how different materials compare. For additional guidance on selecting the right shutter style, see this insightful piece on how to choose window shutters.
History and Evolution of Plastic House Shutters
The concept of house shutters dates back centuries, originally used for protection against the elements and intruders. Plastic house shutters emerged in the mid-20th century with advancements in polymer technology, providing a cost-effective alternative to wood and metal. Today, modern variants incorporate UV inhibitors to prevent fading and reinforced structures for added strength.
In the UK—particularly in areas like North London—plastic house shutters have gained popularity due to their ability to handle variable weather. To see how contemporary shutter styles have evolved, browse our gallery of full-height shutters for inspiration.
Benefits of Choosing Plastic House Shutters
One of the primary advantages of plastic house shutters is their durability. Unlike wood, which can warp or rot over time, plastic is impervious to water damage, insects, and extreme temperatures. This makes it an excellent choice for coastal or high-humidity areas. Additionally, plastic shutters are lightweight, making installation a breeze for DIY enthusiasts.
Affordability also plays a major role. Plastic house shutters typically cost less than their wood counterparts, allowing homeowners to achieve a polished look on a budget. That said, investing in our white wooden shutters can provide superior longevity and aesthetic value.
- Low Maintenance: Simply wipe them down with a damp cloth—no painting or sealing required.
- Variety of Styles: From classic to contemporary, plastic shutters come in numerous designs.
- Energy Efficiency: They help regulate indoor temperatures by blocking sunlight.
- Customization: Available in custom sizes and colours to fit any window.
Beyond these practical perks, plastic house shutters enhance privacy and light control, making them versatile for bedrooms, living rooms, and even bathrooms. For sustainability-minded homeowners, note that some models are made from recycled materials—aligning with our commitment to responsible sourcing, highlighted on our sustainability page. Explore further reasons to choose faux-wood options in this helpful article on why faux-wood shutters are worth considering.
Comparing Plastic House Shutters to Wood Alternatives
While plastic excels in durability and cost, wood shutters—like those handcrafted by North London Shutters and Blinds—offer unmatched elegance and insulation. Our locally made interior wooden shutters are finished with eco-friendly paints, supporting British craftsmanship. Plastic may fade over time, but properly maintained wood shutters can retain their beauty for decades.
Environmentally, plastic shutters can contribute to waste if not recycled, whereas our sustainable practices include reusable packaging and consolidated deliveries. When deciding between plastic and wood, consider your priorities—quick affordability or long-term quality. For expert perspective on embracing minimalist shutter styles, you may find inspiration in this piece on minimalism with window shutters.
How to Choose the Right Plastic House Shutters for Your Home
Selecting plastic house shutters involves factors like size, style, colour, and functionality. Measure your windows accurately to ensure a perfect fit, and choose louvers that allow for adjustable light control. For exterior shutters, opt for hurricane-rated reinforcements if you live in windy areas.
Our personalised service helps you navigate these choices. Even if plastic shutters are your preference, we can guide you toward options that complement our tier-on-tier range. Popular colours include white, black, and earthy tones, which seamlessly blend with various home exteriors.
- Assess your home’s architectural style—colonial homes suit panel shutters, while modern builds favour sleek louvers.
- Consider the climate; plastic performs well in damp conditions.
- Budget for quality; cheaper options may not last as long.
- Think about installation—professional services ensure longevity.
Don’t forget to check for warranties. Reputable brands offer guarantees against cracking or fading, giving you peace of mind. To book expert advice, use our quick online consultation form.
Design Trends in Plastic House Shutters
Current trends lean toward minimalist designs with clean lines and neutral palettes. Matte finishes are popular for contemporary homes, while textured options mimic wood grain for a traditional feel. Smart-home integration—like motorised controls—is also on the rise, though more common in premium materials. For a deeper dive into cutting-edge styles, explore our blog on modern shutter designs or gain insight from broader design experts like Mad About The House for trendspotting inspiration.
Installation Guide for Plastic House Shutters
Installing plastic house shutters is straightforward thanks to their lightweight nature. For exterior mounting, you’ll need screws, anchors, and a level. Start by marking positions, drilling pilot holes, and securing the shutters. Interior shutters might use brackets or tracks for easy attachment.
If DIY isn’t your forte, North London Shutters and Blinds offers professional installation services. Our team ensures precise fitting, whether for plastic shutters or our bespoke wood varieties. Proper installation prevents sagging or misalignment, maximising lifespan.
Required tools include a drill, measuring tape, and screwdriver. Follow manufacturer instructions to avoid voiding warranties. For complex setups—like bay windows—consulting experts can save time and hassle. Learn more about custom solutions for larger openings on our bi-fold shutter door page.
Common Installation Mistakes to Avoid
Avoid rushing measurements—incorrect sizing leads to gaps. Don’t overlook surface preparation; clean walls ensure better adhesion. Over-tightening screws can crack plastic, so use gentle force. If unsure, our local team in North London is just a call or click away. For a comprehensive DIY shutter guide, check out Pippa Jameson Interiors’ shutter installation tips.
Maintenance and Care for Plastic House Shutters
Keeping plastic house shutters looking new is simple: regular dusting and occasional washing will suffice. Use mild soap and water, avoiding abrasive chemicals that could scratch the surface. For exteriors, inspect for debris after storms.
Compared to wood, plastic resists mould and mildew, but UV exposure can cause fading. Apply protective sprays if needed. For a complete care routine, see our guide to child-safe and durable window coverings. Additional upkeep advice can be found on Fabric of My Life’s window treatment care guide.
- Clean monthly with a soft cloth.
- Check hinges and mechanisms annually.
- Store removable shutters during off-seasons.
- Avoid direct heat sources to prevent warping.
With proper care, plastic house shutters can last 10–15 years, offering excellent value.
Energy Efficiency and Plastic House Shutters
Plastic house shutters help insulate windows, blocking heat in summer and retaining warmth in winter—potentially lowering utility bills. For windows prone to heat gain, pair shutters with Venetian blinds to boost energy performance further. For an in-depth look at energy-smart shutter solutions, see The Design Sheppard’s guide to made-to-measure window coverings.
Why Choose North London Shutters and Blinds?
While plastic house shutters have their place, our expertise lies in premium wood plantation shutters—proudly made in Britain. Each piece is crafted by skilled locals, supporting jobs and the economy. We prioritise sustainability with eco-friendly materials and minimal transport—your shutters travel only from our warehouse to your home.
Contact us at T: 020 3417 6465 or E: admin@northlondonshuttersandblinds.co.uk for a personalised consultation. Whether you’re interested in plastic house shutters or custom wood options, we treat every client as an individual, ensuring satisfaction.
Customer Testimonials
Clients rave about our quality and service. One said, “The plastic house shutters we discussed led me to your wood alternatives—absolutely transformative!” Another noted, “Eco-friendly and beautiful; North London Shutters and Blinds exceeded expectations.” See more success stories on our About Us page.
FAQs About Plastic House Shutters
Are plastic house shutters weatherproof? Yes, they’re designed to resist rain, wind, and sun.
Can I paint plastic house shutters? Most are pre-coloured, but some accept paint—check manufacturer guidelines.
How do plastic house shutters compare in cost to wood? They’re generally 30–50 % cheaper.
Do you offer installation for plastic house shutters? While we specialise in wood, we can advise on all types and connect you with trusted installers.
This guide has covered the essentials of plastic house shutters. For tailored advice, reach out to North London Shutters and Blinds. Remember, investing in quality window treatments like our bespoke wood shutters can elevate your home beyond what plastic alone can achieve.
