A Comprehensive Guide to Choosing Shutter Styles and Louvre Sizes

When it comes to selecting a stylish, secure and easy to maintain window covering, shutters are the go-to option. They not only provide better insulation than other treatments but also give windows a clutter-free look. To make the most of your shutters, make sure you have a suitable style and functional louvre size. Shutter style plays a vital role in your home’s aesthetics; louvre size impacts your ability to see out, your privacy level and the amount of light coming into your home.

Here is a quick overview of various shutter styles and louvre sizes so you can choose the perfect combination for your home.

How to Choose a Suitable Shutter Style and Perfect Louvre Size

Types of Shutter Styles

Perfect plantation shutter

1) Full Height Shutters

These are the most common and suit nearly all window types. These shutters offer maximum privacy and block out light as they cover the entire windowpane. They are an energy efficient option because of the slat panels reaching from the very top to the very bottom of the window. The simple design makes them ideal for homes with minimalist décor.

2) Café Style Shutters

Unlike full height shutters which cover the entire windowpane, café style shutters cover only the bottom of a window, leaving the top uncovered. This is an inexpensive choice compared to its counterparts and is ideal for homes with windows that open onto the street or a busy area. The best thing about these shutters is that they give you privacy without blocking sunlight. Choose these to get that French bistro-inspired look.

3) Tier-on-Tier Shutters

Tier-on-tier shutters are the most versatile option because they consist of two separate sets of shutter panels. You can open the top or bottom independently or together. Like café style shutters, they provide privacy and light control but are more energy efficient. They are, however, not a good choice for bay windows as they clutter up the surrounding space.

4) Tracked Shutters

As the name suggests, tracked shutters open and close on a track and fold away like a concertina. If you have large windows, tracked shutters are a perfect window covering as they provide a great view outside.

5) Shaped Shutters

Many homeowners have trouble finding the right window treatments for oddly shaped windows because most come only in standard sizes. Shaped shutters solve this problem as they can be custom made to ensure they fit your home’s unique architectural features. Some available shapes include circle, triangle, angled, hexagon, semicircle, quarter round, octagon and arched.

Louvers sizes

Louvres come in three sizes, each suited to a specific function. Here we explain them in detail.

2.5-Inch Louvres

These are the most traditional size and are commonly used in homes with traditional décor. They are a good option in the following cases:

  • If you have small windows (larger louvres dominate them)
  • If you don’t have enough clearance space or depth on your windowsill (larger louvres take more space to tilt and will likely hit your windowpane, thus restricting your ability to open and close them)

3.5-Inch Louvres

These medium louvres are gaining in popularity because of their traditional look and grand feel. They allow for increased visibility and a much cleaner view compared to 2.5-inch slats. You can use them in the following cases:

  • If your windows are slightly larger than standard
  • If you want a less obstructed view

4.5-Inch Louvres

These louvres give a grand yet elegant feel to shutters. You can use them in the following cases:

  • If you want to maximize the amount of light and air coming into your home
  • If you want the view outside your window to be very clear when louvres are raised

Whether you buy wood, faux wood or vinyl, your choice of shutter style and slat size can have a dramatic impact on the overall appearance of your windows. So, make sure you choose wisely. Hopefully, with the help of this guide, you will be able to make a more informed decision when buying window treatments.