Plantation shutters have been a popular window blind for many years now, and it seems they are only increasing in popularity as time goes on.  Having said this, there are a lot of choices when it comes to deciding exactly what type of material you will have your shutters made from, and where you will buy them from.  Home Depot plantation shutters are fairly reasonable, as are shutters from many other locations online.

Originally shutters were made from wood panels and were hung on the outside of the window. They were used to keep out sun and dust, and also were very helpful in protecting houses from hurricane damage if they were in a hurricane area.  Mainly wealthy plantation owners were the only ones who could afford to have these made and hung on their windows, thus the name “plantation shutters.”

These days the shutters are not just for the wealthy! Thankfully they are made out of a variety of materials meaning that they are affordable no matter what your budget.

Some materials used for the shutters include:

• Hard wood such as Cedar or Aldar wood, or Poplar wood
• Softer woods, basswood
• Composite wood (faux wood)
• Vinyl

Naturally, the more expensive plantation shutters are made from the harder woods. These shutters also have the nicest finishing and look very good.  Blinds made from hard wood is usually  either left unfinished, or the wood is stained.

Not everyone is able to afford these though, so the other alternatives ranging from Basswood to vinyl can still look very good.  Basswood shutters can be left unfinished, or stained or sometimes they are painted.  Shutters made from composite wood are usually painted, but can also be finished with a wood look.  Vinyl blinds come in different colors also, but by far the most common for plantation shutters is the more authentic looking wood or brown colors.

Designer Plantation Shutters

If you really want the ultimate design in plantation blinds, there are also options available for having your shutters custom designed.  While you can choose the type of wood to have them made from, normally if you’re going to the expense of having designer shutters made you may as well have them made from the best and finest hardwoods available, such as the Western Red Alder.  Alder wood is a popular choice for designer plantation shutters because of its very even grain and texture.   You can also choose what, if any stain, to use, choosing the perfect match for your other furniture.

Whatever your choice, you can be sure that the addition of plantation shutters to your home will give it an elegant look.