You have several options if you’re considering looking at some updates to your window treatments. First, an option that you may want to consider is plantation shutters as a type of window treatment. This popular option has its roots in the United States and remains a classic and timeless style that is also quite a functional option.
They’re also quite durable with most of the material options and are energy-efficient due to their functionality. This can also be a great addition if you want to increase your home’s value.
These are designed with large and wide slats that are adjustable. So you can adjust how much light is blocked and how much airflow can come in to help with ventilation and the breeze.
When it comes to material choices, the two most popular options and comparisons that are done are PVC vs Wood Plantation shutters. Yet they don’t need to be at competing odds with each other, and often you may see yourself having a combination of these materials throughout your home. Below you can check out some PVC & Wood Plantation Shutter’s Pros and Cons with a variety of factors.
When you look at PVC vs Wood Plantation Shutters, you can actually make PVC look identical to their wooden counterparts in both colours and look. What helps to confirm the same look is that all the ancillary pieces, such as the frames, rails, stiles and hinges, will be the same regardless of if you go with a PVC or Wood material option.
Even the blade sizes can be customised for each material option into the desired plank lengths and widths.
With that said, there are still some limitations when it comes to PVC and its authenticity. For example, while many aspects can make PVC look like natural wood, it tends to be hard to mimic the feel and warmth of natural wooden plantation tiles. In addition, PVC may have limited options regarding what natural stain and finishing colours can be selected compared to wood.
One note to consider is the weight, as PVC plantation shutters are reinforced with metal, typically aluminium, to keep their shape looking like actual shutters and not appear as if they are flimsy. This additional weight needs to be considered when it comes to how large of a size you’re looking to have your plantation shutters be and also how much area they are meant to cover.
Don’t think that Wood is that much less durable than PVC. In fact, with the proper maintenance, there should be no issues with them. Keep in mind if you’re looking for this traditional option, they’ll be made and shaped from natural wood, and popular types include hardwood options such as maple and oak but can include other options such as cedar or basswood.
One thing to note is that water can significantly affect your wood and cause many issues. First, it will cause fractures in the wood, from hairline fractures to multiple cracks. Then, exposure to too much water can cause the wood to warp or rot if it isn’t properly sealed. Another issue that can occur with water is the peeling or flaking off of paint.
Heat can also be an issue as it makes the wood expand. This can also cause swelling and warping, and when the wood cools off, it can actually go the other way and be affected by shrinkage.
Ultimately, they are much lighter than PVC, as they won’t need metal supports. As a result, they’ll be a great option to cover large windows that aren’t in wet areas and can be an aesthetically pleasing option.
PVC vs Wood Shutters both have an issue with fading and will do so at similar speeds. For those who have wooden-based plantation shutters in Australia, you will need to implement a consistent maintenance schedule that includes restraining, putting on protective oils and sanding or repolishing them from time to time. When this maintenance needs to happen is based on their exposure to the sun. If they are facing North or West, expect an expedited maintenance schedule.
PVC plantation shutters in Australia are much easier to clean. This is because they can be wiped down simply with water or non-aggressive cleaning solutions, unlike wood, which can only be dry-dusted for cleaning. Furthermore, if you go for a white colour with PVC, which is its natural colour, then it will also last longer as well from fading.
It can vary with wood plantation shutters, but they tend to have at least 3 years warranty which doesn’t include natural warps and cracks that can occur. Some out there speak of a 20-year warranty, but it’s best to investigate those further. Also, keep in mind with proper maintenance, there shouldn’t be an issue.
With PVC, the industry-standard looks to be around 10 years of structural warranty. Of course, as the years go by, the paint may chip or fade, but that’s not related to the structure and can easily be repainted as needed.
As mentioned above, even with the Aluminium Core, PVC comes in at a slightly lower price when compared to basswood plantation shutters. Other types of wood, especially hardwood options, may also come in at a higher price. This is because we’re looking for the best pieces and higher grades with no cracks or knots, which can also increase the price but are well worth seeing how they look.
If you’re searching for that timeless natural look used as a traditional aesthetic, you should side with the wood option. On the other hand, if you want something simple, painless to manage and able to set up once and give an occasional clean to, and you aren’t too fixed on a wooden aesthetic, then go with the PVC option.
If it is White
then you can have both PVC and Timber
Then go wood
Always think about natural characteristics and regular maintenance of wood shutters while PVC has none of those issues, but heavy nature will impact the look of your shutters when it comes to big window or door.
Most of our customers have both wood and pvc ordered for different room, and you would not tell the difference if they are all in same white finish.
Either way, you’ve made it this far, so we recommend that you reach out to us to check out your home for a free measure and quote or come to our showroom to see some real size samples.
We cover West to Werribbe, North to Gisborne, South to Philip Island, and East to Warragul. Call us to make a booking now.
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