Why consider shutters for your window treatments?

 Plantation Shutters are one of our favorite style window treatments. Here are a couple of reasons for you to possibly consider shutters for your homes window treatments.


Here in the Wilmington NC area we are in the south were plantation shutters were first used.  They fit the style of a lot of homes here in the Wilmington NC area. You can use plantation shutters for your main window treatment and the window really looks finished.  In my opinion a lot of window blinds be it a wood blinds or faux wood blinds they do not give the window a finished look. Wood or faux wood blinds usally need a drapery or a window valsnce to really give the window a nice finished look.

Plantation shutters are built into a frame not allowing that annoying light gap that window blinds and shades have. They really bring together flexibility and style. Also shutters are the most room darkening window treatment that is louvered.  When looking for shutters I would suggest a elliptical louver and not a flat louver.  The reason for this is that a elliptical louver used on your plantation shutters will close much tighter and darken the room much better when the louvers are closed.  Plantation shutter also come in a huge range of louver sizes and you can with a larger 2" or 3" louver provide much light and view when the louvers are open.

On the energy saving front, plantation shutters are great insulator for window treatmnets. Wood shutters are the best at insulating.  But the new faux wood shutters are getting much better for the hot summer heat we have here in the Wilmington NC area. While they save you money on your electric bill they at the same time add value to your home.  When your home is appraised plantation shutters are the only window treatment you can use that will add value to your home. No matter if you have custom blinds,shades or draperies they are not viewed as a permanent fixture of your home when appraised.  Where a plantation shutters are viewed as a permanent fixture.  Also if you trying to sell your house and someone comes in your home to look at it will separate your home from others they view.  People especially in the Wilmington NC area love shutters.

As always if you are looking for plantation shutters for your home I would suggest getting at least three quotes.  I know I have looked around and there is a wide range of products and pricing out there in the Wilmington NC area.  Most companies will come out and give you a free in home estimate.  Or if your in a hurry just call around and ask what that companies price is usually a square foot for shutters.  But remember doing it this way you dont really get to see the quality of the shutter.  It can give you an idea though of how much you will be looking at spending for shutters in your home.

I hope this helps you when considering different window treatment options for your home.

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New B&W Window Treatments Now in Wilmington NC

Unique Perspective Blind & Shutter is proud to now be a authorized dealer for the new B&W Horizons soft window treatments line here in the Wilmington NC area. The Horizons line of window treatments are a perfect way to add class and style to any room in your home. In addition to the over 400 designer fabrics in the Horizons Soft Treatments Collection. B&W Window Fashions will also custom craft beautiful window treatments from your own material. B&W Window treatment line makes picking fully custom draperies & side panels any type window treatment easy. Fabric, labor and lining everything included making it easier than ever to put together a stunning window treatment.  Hand crafted custom fabric roman shades available in beautiful fabric choices and including quality features like standard lining, blackout lining and even the new roman shades line with the cordless feature.  All this from B&W Window Fashions award winning workroom.  For a finishing touch B&W Window treatments has tailored board mounted valances or intricate pole mounted swags and jabots, there is a Premium Window Treatment solution for and style home decor you might have. After you pick out your window treatment Unique Perspective Blind & Shutter trained installers will come out and handle the installation for you.  You can call Unique Perspective Blind & Shutter anytime to setup a free in home consultation here in the Wilmington NC area at 910-859-6707 or visit them at www.upwindows.com. They have been helping customers with there window treatment needs for over 15 years.  Picking out your window treatments with one of there experienced design consultants in easy. 

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Window Treatments for Side Light Windows

Window Shades

Honeycomb shades are a great idea for sidelight window treatment. These sidelight window shades come in bottom-up lifting system also have the cordless shade option. The tension control system eliminates pull cords from pooling on the floor or getting caught in doorjambs.

Faux wood and Wood Blinds

Faux wood blinds or wood blinds are another option for your sidelight windows.  On windows smaller than 12" wide will come with a center tilt option on the blind.  Also the window blinds be it faux wood or real wood blinds will not have the lifting option.  You can take the wood and faux wood blinds and attach at the bottom to keep it from moving around on the window when the door opens and closes.

Plantation Shutters

Plantation shutters are the Cadillac of window treatments and work great on sidelight windows.  You can have the shutters made from a composite material or real wood shutter.  Plantation shutters sit inside of a frame and are hinged to the frame.  When you want to clean the window you simply just open the door of the shutter.  You have options of louver sizes ranging from 1" to 3.5".  One consideration is the larger the louver size on the plantation shutter the further out the frame will stick out into the room.

Most of the time sidelights window blinds, shades or plantation shutters will need to be made custom because of the small size.  You can call any window treatment company in Wilmington NC or surrounding areas and they can come out and go over the different options in your home.  One thing I always suggest is get three estimates.  You will find big price diffrences sometimes when shopping for blind,shades and shutters in Wilmington NC.

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The Up and Downside of Faux Wood Blinds in Wilmington NC

Faux wood window blinds can in many times be a great alternative to there counterpart real wood blinds. Faux wood window blinds can be made from composite wood, vinyl, polyvinyl chloride (PVC) or a combination of wood and vinyl together. Most of your mass produced stock faux wood blinds are made from PVC.  PVC faux wood blinds will last 1-2 years and then run the risk of discoloration and warping.  The best choice for a nice faux wood blind that will  last is the composite wood blind or a combination of wood and vinyl blind material. These blinds may not be as elegant as genuine your hardwood blinds  in a stain finish .  However a high quality faux wood blind in a white or off white are very hard to tell the difference between wood blinds.  Faux wood blinds are also easy to clean the blind.  Faux wood blind are much less expensive than wood blinds as well. While wood blinds or bamboo blinds are elegant and classy, they are also quite expensive. Faux wood blinds are usually a more affordable option. Not only that, they are also more durable than wood blinds in high moisture and humidity areas especially. Real wood blinds will warp by water and humidity.

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Plantation Shutters or Blinds? Help in Deciding

Should I get plantation blinds or plantation shutters? But aren't they the same thing? Plantation blinds and plantation shutters are mistaken for each other.  Blinds are on the inside window and are used as an alternative to curtains. Shutters can also be used on the interior of a home but exterior shutters are also available on the market.  While interior shutters are in some ways similar to blinds  Both have slats or louvers so light and air coming into a room can be controlled. This article explores the similarities and differences between blinds and interior shutters.  

Plantation Shutters

Shutters are a part of the window they cover in a way that blinds can not. They are actually hinged onto the frame that goes around the window. This means that shutters can be completely removed from covering the window if this is required. When closed, most blinds designed for the home are opened using string which lifts the blinds above the window. Shutter can give you the ability to tilt the top half of the the window separate from bottom. Shutters are swung in and out to close and open. Most windows will be covered by two shutters that are opened by pulling them open, one from each side. In some ways this is similar to opening double doors. Shutter will give you more louver or slat size options. Also shutters can cover arch or round windows.

Plantation Wood blinds or Faux wood Blinds

With wood or faux wood blinds the individual slats are held together with string. As mentioned above, to alter the height of the blinds a separate, but attached, string is pulled. To open the slats of blinds a rod or cord tilt is used. This is twisted to open and close them or a string is pulled in either direction. A difference is that with wood or faux wood blinds the slats overlap slightly and they cannot keep 100% of the light out in a room. This isn’t the case with plantation shutters. They have an elliptical louver and shut very tightly blocking out much more light than a wood or faux wood blind when needed.

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Roman Shade and Bamboo Shade Linings. Which is right?

Insulated roman shades are energy efficient window treatments that keep a room warm in the winter and the heat out in the summer. Roman shades can be stylish and elegant and can decorate any room in the house. You can really add some class to your room with roman shades.  Most companies will have fabrics to choose from and you can also use you own material to pull the room together. 

Light Filtering Shade Lining

 Light filtering roman shades are typically made with a semi heavy fabric that will cut out about half the light that will come through the roman shade. They offer protection as well as insulation properties. A light filtering lining on the shade will also keep your interior fabric from fading n the sun.

Blackout Shade Lining

  Roman shades that are lined with a heavy liner which blocks out all the light. Adding the blackout lining is great if you are one that likes to sleep late sometimes or work shifts and need it dark to sleep during the day.  You also gain a tremendous amount of insulating value when you add a blackout liner to your roman shades. You will also notice that the texture or pattern of fabric you are using is more visible during the day.

Bamboo or Woven Shades

In addition to the popular fabric roman window shades there are still common bamboo shades or woven wood  shades that can be made with many natural material from bamboo,jute and sea grass woven together. You can add edge binding to your bamboo shades which are usually not wider than two inches and come in very earthy colors that complement the bamboo. Woven wood shades can be lined with either blackout or light filtering lining.

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Price of Plantation Shutter in Wilmington NC

If you are wanting a versatile and stylish product it’s hard to consider plantation shutters. Here in Wilmington NC area you will see shutters around in a lot of homes. Shutters enhance the look of your home from both the inside and out.  Shutter can be fitted to almost any window shape or size. Most people love the look and ease of use of plantation shutters. But many people are quite surprised when they go out and price out  having plantation shutters made for there home.  Shutters are one of the more expensive of window treatments but you need consider a few things when looking around for shutters here in Wilmington NC area.  Some people call shutters furniture made for your window.

Price Range Of Shutters in Wilmington NC

When shopping around for shutters the prices will vary from different blind and shutter companies here in the Wilmington NC area. A wood plantation shutter generally will run you anywhere from $250 to $450 a window thats around 30" x 60" in size. Your composite materials are generally slightly less expensive. It will depend a lot on who you price out and shop when getting estimates.

What is the Plantation Shutter Made From

The first thing you should look at is what the shutter is made from. Some shutters are made from wood ranging from basswood to popular. You also have MDF, PVC or some other composite materials on the market these days as well. Many are choosing a composite material for having there shutters made.  Composite plantation shutters are easy to clean and maintain. Many look very close to a wood shutter.  Make sure you see a sample of the shutter and ask what it is made from.  Some composite of faux wood shutters look very plastic like.

What Kind of Waranty Do the Shutters Have

Most custom plantation shutters should have a lifetime warranty, so if anything less than a 10 year warranty is being offered, you should be asking yourself some questions. For as much as plantation shutters cost you don't won't to be having to replace them after 4-6 years, or less! Don't be fooled sometimes by some companies name like budget or affordable they sometimes can be more expensive. Its always good idea to get different estimates. Here in the Wilmington NC area you will find a big price range on shutters. Its always good to by from a local company that way if you do have a warranty issue they will be around to take care of it for you. One useful tip when buying plantation shutters to save you some time is to call around to different companies and just ask what they charge per square foot for there plantation shutters. Most companies here in Wilmington NC area offer free in home estimates and measure as well

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The Least Expensive is not Always the Best Deal

 

On the other side of the price scale, paying more than $450 a window would really be excessive and overpriced for no gain in the quality of the product.

Factors That Effect the Price:

1. Type of wood or material the shutter being made of.
2. The number of panels selected for each window
3. .The quantity of shutters you are buying.  You may be offered a better price for your plantation  shutters if you are buying a larger quantity.
4. The condition of your window arches and how square your windows are.   Additional fitting costs and extra timber may be required to get the perfect installed fit.
5. Type of frames used on the plantation shutter.
6. The experience of the installer.  A good installer is paid appropriately as installing shutters is a job that takes many years to perfect.  A lot of companies cut their costs by using the cheap labor or subcontract there installation out to someone who has no idea what there doing.Ask the salesperson who will be installing your shutters and how experienced are they.
7. A unusual shapes such as triangular,arch and round windows .
8. Having your shutters painted in a custom color.
9. Stained or painted finish for your shutter

Plantation shutters at first may seem initially to be one of the more expensive window treatment options.But over time they are great value being you get years of use. Over the years you may change the decor of your home but shutters will fit just about any decorating style.

 Plantation Shutters are Good Investment in Your Home

1. Plantation shutters will last a life time, so you will never have to replace them.
2. Solid wood or composite plantation shutters are amazing insulators that will keep the heat out in summer and keep the heat in during winter, better than any other window blind.
3. Plantation shutters are one of the few products that create a WOW factor when you walk into the room.  Because of this, real estate agents here in the Wilmington NC area all agree that unlike blinds, plantation shutters actually add value to your home and increase the sale price.
4. After your plantation shutters are installed, you and your guests will be so impressed with the look and functionality of your plantation shutters that the price will soon be long forgotten.
5. Plantation window shutters are the only window treatment that when your home is appraised it will add value.  Blinds,shades or curtain are not considered permanent fixtures of the home like plantation shutters

So hopefully you are now ready with all the information and you can go out and make an informed decision on buying your new plantation shutters here in the Wilmington NC area!

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New Options & Upgrades For Your Window Treatmants

 Most people can be overwhelmed when they start looking at all the options and features available for your window treatments today.  In this blog I will go over some of the new features you have when shopping for your new  blinds, shades, shutters and draperies.  You could go to a big box store and get cheap standard cut down blinds that don’t allow you to get everything you want.  But people are learning that there are great upgrades and features that should be considered before making a purchase your window blinds. Here are some of the most popular features you can trick out your window treatments with.

Cordless for shades & Wood Blinds

Choosing cordless blinds and cordless shades instead of corded ones has a number of great benefits. First, the absence of cords creates a sleek, clean look throughout the home. Cordless window blinds and shades tend to look less busy, as the cords can sometimes detract from home décor. Cordless blinds and shades are also the preferred style for homes with small children and pets. Installing all cordless products in your home is a great place to start in making your home more child friendly. Never place corded blinds and shades near a child’s bed or crib, and make sure that any cords you may have are tied down to the wall and have safety breakaway tassels on the ends.

SmartPrivacy feature on Norman Wood and Faux Wood blinds 

This new Patented SmartPrivacy™ feature allows for optimum blind closure for the utmost levels of privacy. This innovative design concept would be the new generations of blinds to replace the existing routed/ rout-less traditional window blinds.

Add Top Down / Bottom Up to your Shades

Top down bottom up window shades are incredibly popular. Adding this feature to your window shades will  allow you to raise and lower the shade in either direction to allow for privacy similar to that of a cafe shutter or curtain. They allow light to come into the room while maintaining your privacy. You can add this feature to roman shades, bamboo shades, woven wood shades, honeycomb shades, and even Hunter Douglas has Silhouettes available with the top/down bottom/up feature now.

Motorization

Motorization is perfect for the tech lover in your. Raising and lowering with the touch of a button, motorization is available on many different shades as well as some wood and faux wood blinds. It is incredibly popular and growing in popularity this year. It’s sleek, modern, and fun, but also perfect for those windows that are hard to reach. 

Continuous Cord Loop 

Continuous cord loop is a great option, especially for wider and heavier window shades. It allows you open and close your shade in an easy, fluid manner. By choosing the feature instead of the traditional style lift, you get rid of dangling cords that are not as child-safe. They’re also cleaner and sleeker in appearance than traditional cords. It eliminates the traditional dangling cord giving a neater appearance. This is a must for large heavy shades or blinds

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Decorating With New Window Treatments For The Holiday Wilmington NC Style

We're gearing up for the holidays and wow a year has gone flying by again. The holidays means that means getting your home in tip top shape for your family visiting to come through your home.  Your window treatments are one of the best ways to spruce up the house and give it a new look. Here so different window treatments you can use and express your unique style.

Blackout honeycomb shades for your windows

   This blackout cell shade is a great, cost-effective solution for covering your windows. Options include cordless feature to keep those string from the children.  Top down bottom up honeycombs shades are great and they even come with the cordless feature now to. The quality construction, durability, and long-lasting style make it a great choice for your home. The room darkening fabric is ideal for media rooms, bedrooms, and any other rooms where you might want it totally dark.

Light filtering Honeycomb shades for your windows

     This is the light-filtering version of the shade above. The difference here is that this shade allows some light to gently filter through, creating a diffused effect during the day, while still helping you maintain privacy.  Also has the same features and options that the blackout honeycomb shades give you.  Look at the feature no that you can combine two fabric so you could have a blackout honeycomb shades and also a light filtering fabric as well.

2 1/2" Faux wood Blinds and Wood blinds for your windows

    Faux wood blinds are one of the least expensive window treatment options. The slats are 2 1/2" instead of the smaller 2" you see a lot. The larger slat size makes it a bit more modern. The Norman wood and faux wood blinds also comes standard with SmartPrivacy® slats, which have smaller, more concealed holes for the strings to go through. This keeps the blind's slats from moving around and helps them close tighter.Wood blinds will be slightly more expensive than faux wood blind.

Norman Wood Shutter or Composite Shutter

   Norman Normandy wood shutter by Norman will give you one of the desired window treatments. Normandy wood shutters are available in 28 colors  and have a furniture grade finish. Norman also offer the Woodlure composite shutter to give you a easy to clean shutter that will last a lifetime.  Many features such as hidden tilt feature. Both the wood and composite shutters come in 1 7/8", 2", 3 1/2" and 4 1/2" inch shutter slat size. 

   Have fun decorating your windows with new window treatments for the holidays!

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Deciding The Right Window Treatment Ideas & Help

Learn about the basics of window coverings (privacy, light control, function, and style). Then prioritize your needs for each window. Layer the treatments for the most versatility. For instance, put wood blinds next to the glass to control light and hang fabric panels for style and color.

BASICS OF WINDOW COVERINGS:

Part 1: Where Privacy is a requisite

Window treatments can baffle even experienced home decorators. Overwhelmed by a huge variety of choices in material, fabric, color, size, options, and hardware, where do you start?

You start with the basics: privacy, light control, function, and style. Paying attention to these four elements can give your project a sense of direction, and combining window treatments in intelligent ways can accomplish the necessary functional aspects as well as contribute to a room’s style.

Let’s take a look at each of the main factors in window covering choices and see which treatments can be most successful in each case. Privacy

Perhaps the only people who don’t need privacy in window treatments are those who have homes set back in the woods, far from prying eyes. For the rest of us, however, privacy can be a major issue.

If you have a bathroom window that looks directly into your neighbor’s hallway, you need privacy. When your dining room looks out on a busy sidewalk, street corner, or a community pool, you want privacy.

To get it you’ll need to choose window treatments that offer complete opaque covering. Here are some good choices for privacy:

* Pleated and honeycomb shades (in non-sheer materials) have full glass coverage for privacy. Many styles can be ordered with a “top down” feature, so a portion of the glass can be visible at the top of the window to let in light and have a view.
* Plantation shutters are one of the most popular window treatments on the market right now.  Plantation shutters can either be made from wood or composite material.  Composite shutters are mostly used today for the cost is slightly lower and the durability aspect.  However isf looking for a stained wood shutter because wood shutters will give you a much more finished look.
  * Fabric or Roller Shades generally offer complete window coverage. Most roller shades are made of vinyl or fabric that is usually opaque, while fabric shades (Roman shades) are lined and custom made to your exact window measurements.

* Curtains and Draperies, when closed, will also close off the view. Add linings that will add to the opacity and durability, and arrange the center overlap to eliminate open spots.

* Sheer curtains and draperies may afford a bit of daytime privacy, however at night most will turn practically transparent with indoor lighting. If you love sheers, but want privacy, then use shades underneath for privacy after dark.

*  Wood or faux wood blinds, and shutters will all provide a nearly private environment. Be aware, however, that with each of these there is a small possibility of seeing through the slats at certain angles. However there are new features with blinds where they do not have holes that can be seen through

* Honeycomb or cellular shades (in non-sheer fabrics) can add privacy and many have insulating benefits as well. Honeycomb shades are the most insulating products you can have in your windo.  I personally know that it gets very hot here in Wilmington NC area and honeycomb shades work great in my own home.  They also help those that might need extra insulating in the winter by also keeping the cold out of your home.

Part 2: Where Light Control is a requisite

Light Control

This factor has two elements. First, keeping glare down is necessary when someone is sleeping in the daytime or when watching TV or working at a desk near a bright window.

Second, UV rays from bright sunlight will adversely affect fabrics, furnishings, and artwork in your home. Full sun can quickly fade expensive upholstery and rugs, eventually causing some fibers to break down and rot.

Window coverings can be used successfully to control light. Consider these possibilities:

· Any of the opaque window treatments listed in the Privacy section above can also help with light control. However, since sunlight will eventually break down many fabrics, it can be helpful to use a non-fabric shade next to the glass, behind expensive draperies, valances, or fabric shades. For custom made draperies ask about special linings and fabric treatments that help reduce UV damage.

Light Control and Style

· Light blocking treatments can be installed for rooms that need to be fully darkened. Look for room darkening roller shades as well as light blocking linings for fabric shades and draperies.

· Metal or wood blinds can be tilted to keep direct sun out of your room, while still affording some view and light.

· Natural blinds such as bamboo shades or woven wood shades will filter the light and cut down on much of the glare, and can be ordered with an exterior privacy lining.

· Honeycomb shades in non-sheer fabrics will cut down on light and also have blackout fabrics as well.

· In areas of very strong sunlight, look into window tinting options where a film is attached directly to the glass. This will reduce UV rays and is available in several levels of tint.

Part 3: Where Function is a requisite

Function

Window coverings are practically useless without the element of function.

Consider your needs for window hardware, fit, wand options, placement, and safety considerations, both as you weigh your options and when you purchase.

There are window treatment solutions for almost any problem. Do you need cord controls on the left to avoid dangling near a baby crib? Will you require light blocking shades for a napping toddler? Are your windows so small that you’ll want to mount window treatments outside of the window frame?

Take a look at some of the problems and solutions in function for window treatments:

· To open or close, that is the question. Some treatments now are designed to be stationery. For draperies that open, however, choose appropriate hardware that opens and closes easily.

Function and Privacy

· Stationery treatments such as non-closing drapery side panels, cornices, and valances are installed to be permanently in place. Add under treatments of sheers, blinds, or shades to add function to these types of window decorations.

· Consider how (and if) you’ll need to operate blinds installed on very high windows.

· Long draperies can be a tempting plaything for pets and a hazard in a young child’s room as they learn to walk and grab anything in sight. It might be better to go with blinds or soft shades that stay up off the floor.

· Ask for the newer breakaway and safety window cord options when installing blinds in a home with children.

· Top down/Bottom up shades increase the possibilities for privacy and function, letting you control the height of your blinds from either direction.

· Transparent shades offer no privacy but will cut down on UV rays and glare. These are made from polyester and work like a regular roller shade.

· High end window treatments can be ordered with tech options that include light sensitive and remote control operation. Consult a window covering store or your interior decorator for more information.

Part 4: Where Style is a requisite

Style

Style is the fun part of window treatments. Here is where you can choose fabrics, colors, and styles that will add to the beauty and enjoyment of your room.

Add interest to windows by repeating fabrics and colors used in other parts of your room. Or, add a dash of style with contrasting borders, cording, or fringe.

The unique touches you add to your window treatments are a reflection of your personal style.

* Draperies have options in rod styles with tab tops, tie tops, many types of pleats, grommets, rod pockets (large or small), flouncy tops, or plain rings.

* Valances can be gathered, pleated, shirred, swagged, bundled, formal, casual, scalloped, lace, or flat.

*  Fabric Shades are found in flat Roman style, balloon, Austrian, bottom arched, pleated, and flat panels, in sheers or coordinating fabrics.

* Wood or faux wood blinds come in a variety of colors, finishes, slat sizes, and tape colors. Some are made without the typical cord holes in each slat for a cleaner look. Ask about choices for header designs and cord control options too.

* Honeycomb Shades, also called pleated and honeycomb shades, have a clean look and come in both sheer and non-sheer materials. Some styles have eliminated the cord hardware, some have loop controls, and most have some insulating qualities.

* Bamboo shades or woven wood shades are also called matchstick or bamboo blinds, but are materials available that have a natural fabric-like appearance. You’ll find options for valances, roll or fold up operation, edge binding, and privacy liners.

 * Plantation shutters are a great window treatment by them selves or with some stationary panels.  Usually people do not ad a topper to shutters being that they will interfere with the doors opening and closing.

Whatever your preference for window treatments, you’re sure to find many options to meet your home’s requirements for privacy, light control, function, and style.  If you are looking for any type of window treatments there are usually companies in your town that will do a free in home consultation to help you pick the right window treatment.

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Woven Wood Bamboo Shades For Your Homes Window Treatments

 Nature loving people here in Wilmington NC and Southeastern NC opt for many natural things like indoor plants, eco friendly products and the exceptional woven wood or bamboo shades. The reason is simple for their popularity; woven wood shades are a economical and environmentally friendly choice for your window treatments.  Woven wood shades can provide control of the light intensity and the heat as well. Woven shades are made from natural materials like bamboo, thin wooden planks, straws, grass, jutes, rattan, reeds and matchsticks which are woven together to form a large sheet. Woven shades can provide a warm cozy feeling to any room.  Most custom woven wood shades are sewn in a roman shade style.

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Choosing the Right Window Treatment For A Wilmington NC Home

Choosing the Right Window Treatment For a Wilmington NC Home

When choosing window treatments solutions for the kitchen or bathroom there are some important factors to consider? The conditions in these rooms are slightly different than the rest of the house and although aesthetic appeal is important the window covering solution must also be durable and easy to maintain.

Composite plantation shutters or faux wood blinds have  been designed as the ideal solution for rooms that suffer from high moisture or humidity content such as kitchens or bathrooms. Faux wood blinds or shutters  blend with every design style from traditional to contemporary. They instantly transform the style of your home and complement any décor. The Composite and Wood Shutters or blinds are extremely resilient and the durable finish makes dents and scratches a rarity. Most custom plantation shutters or blinds have a lifetime guarantee against defects. The material, finish and manufacturing methods ensure they will look as perfect for many years as they do on the day you purchased them.

Built with energy conservation in mind.  Plantation shutters are proven to be up to 1600% more energy efficient than aluminum mini-blinds and have an R-Value of 4.63. When shopping for your shutters make sure they make the shutters with a astragal. A astragal on plantation shutters is a flap where the shutter doors come together on each stile (vertical sections of shutter) to help block out more temperature and light than any other louvered window treatment, and a finish that is UV coated for ultimate protection against the elements.

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Be inspired with window treatments in Wilmington NC

What type of mood do your window treatments evoke?  And if you don’t have window treatments yet, it’s time to start thinking about what kind of aura you hope to set with just your windows. See if these ideas spark any inspiration?

Warmth – Deep and earthy shades of yellow, red and orange will create and inviting and even rustic scheme.

Artistic – Bold patterns and contrasting colors will create tons of visual appeal, particularly in an otherwise traditional or neutral room. These windows will surely pop!

Shock – For a fun, informal space, go bright with yellows, pinks and oranges in shiny and unusual fabrics.

Layers – One of the most popular ways to apply window treatments is by layering different types, colors, textures, etc.  One window can take on multiple treatments and it’ll look great if it’s done right!

Dressings – Don’t forget the wonders that can be created with beautiful rods, brackets and other accessories. In shades of gold, copper and silver, these finishing touches will truly bring your window treatments together

You can take any of these ideas and incorporate them into your homes window treatments with roman shades, drapery panels, pillows and woven wood bamboo shades.  Make your home unique and give it your distinct style.  Now go decorate your windows!!

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Ideas when shopping for Plantation Shutters in Wilmington NC

When shopping for plantation shutters, there are a few considerations to keep in mind. The most important factor is the material used to make the plantation shutter. Basswood has the best characteristics for window shutters because it is a very straight hard wood with little distortion. Basswood also has a fine, uniform texture and indistinct grain, which make it superior for staining or painting. There are also many new materials on the shutter market now. Composite or fauxwood material has gotten very popular to have your interior plantation shutters made from. The composite shutter material beacause its use in high humidity areas is especially popular here in the Wilmington, NC area and all of Southeastern North Carolina. Composite shutters do not come as many colors as wood shutters. But if you are looking for a neutral color you should not have to hard of time finding a color that will work for you. Composite plantation shutters are easy to clean and never have to be painted. Also composite shutters tend to be slightly less expensive than wood shutters. You should also look for a company that can make your shutters to exactly fit your window so you can receive the best final fit for your window. Plantation shutters both available in a traditional style which uses a 1-1/4 inch louver with 3/ 4 inch thick shutter stile. You do see a lot plantation shutters utilizing the larger louvers today which range between 2-1/2 and 4-1/2 inches, and 1-1/8 inch thick shutter stile. Plantation shutters are generally more versatile for a wide range of decorating styles. Traditional shutters have been limited in the past to homes with smaller rooms and windows, but have recently been used with the lager shutter louvers in more contemporary applications.

Looking online for Your Plantation Shutters

Looking for shutters online allows the you to view styles, specifications, and prices in complete detail. But you really do not get a feel for the quality or finish that you may be getting when looking online. Shutters can be ordered in a wide variety of sizes to best fit each individual your window. I suggest you use the internet to educate your self on features and materials available. Looking around online will also give you a idea of what you will be spending for your shutters.

Locally shopping in Wilmington NC for your Shutters
I live in Wilmington, NC and when shopping for plantation shutters there are many different companies that serve Wilmington and all of Southeastern North Carolina. Installing shutters is no easy task so you would want to ask how long they have been working ion the shutter industry and get a feel for the person to see if they seem knowledgeably about there product. If you are leaning to the composite material for having your plantation shutter made from. Be aware of the differences in how the composite shutter materials is made. So composite shutter materials look very plastic like and can warp and fade over time. That is one of the advantages you get when shopping locally. You can see the shutter up close and get a real feel for what it will look like in your window.

Once your plantation shutters are finished and installed, you will have a high-quality product that will increase the value of your home. That will give your home a unique look and will set it apart from your neighbors. We strongly encourage you to do as much research about shutters as possible. Education is key to the end satisfaction of your shutters.It is no secret, window shutters can be expensive. We encourage any homeowner considering shutters in their home to initially price shutters online. This will give you perspective to the assortment of quotes you may receive. Then look in your local area and most companies will come out and give you a free estimate. Always get multiple quotes when looking around for your shutters. You will find a lot of times there will be a big price difference from company to company here in Wilmington,NC. Ask questions to the sales person about there products features and check into if they have any type of warranty.

Good luck

Ideas for picking durable window treatments? Wilmington NC

I work in the window covering industry for many years and always get the question asked.  What is the most durable style of window treatment and especially when located in Wilmington NC?  I usually try to get a feel from where the customer is coming from and see what exactly would suit there needs to stay good looking for a long time.  I first think of plantation shutters made from a composite material, faux wood blinds and bamboo shades made from natural fibers are some that come to mind first.

     When you are choosing the window treatments for your home that are both durable and look good.   Plantation shutters are one of the most durable and popular window treatments these days.  You can have plantation shutters made from wood, a composite material which is a blend of  wood and polymers.  Shutters are great for high traffic areas such as the kitchen and bath.  Composite shutters stand up well to humidity and areas that tend to be exposed to moisture.  Shutters can fit just about every different style of decorating .  Depending on the size louver you pick can drastically change the look of plantation shutters.  Plantation shutters are easy to maintain and offer privacy.  Also shutters are one of the best insulating window treatments you can get for your windows. Plantation shutters are not the least expensive option  but shutters can add value to your home. Shutters are the only form of window treatment that add value to your home when it is appraised.

     There are many shades on the market that are made from different natural fibers.  Be it from a bamboo blind or shade to a woven wood made from reed or sea grass are all great choices when looking for something durable window treatment.  A cotton or brushed canvas  material is a favorite fabric choice.  Very commonly seen in Pottery Barn magazine.  Ask who you are purchasing your window shades from if they have any type of scotch guard for tough stains.  Many companies now have that option available and strongly suggest it. 

     The last option would be your faux wood blinds. The faux wood blind offers a variety in color and can fit just about any decor. Faux wood blinds are made of vinyl or a combination of vinyl hardwood material. Faux wood blinds don't bend or fade over time, and most of all are easy to clean.  Faux wood blinds are the most affordable ways to cover a window.

    Wilmington and Southeastern North Carolina has many different places to look at the different choices you have.  Most all will come to your home and give you a free in home consultation.  As I always say do your research and get multiple quotes to make sure you get the best deal.

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Should I get real wood or faux wood blinds?Wilmington NC

A lot of people are trying to make there money go as far as it can in these hard  times.  You can do this in many ways but one of the best ways is by comparison-shopping. You will not only want to think about the price of an item, but also the quality of an item, and also what works best for your budget and style of decorating. The best deal for you may not always be the cheapest price. This is also true when shopping for your window treatments in Wilmington NC there are many different choices. Be it for wood blinds, plantation shutters or even a roman shade.

     Your first decision when shopping for window blinds is to decide between wood or faux wood blind material. The difference between these blinds is the materials they are made from. Wood blinds are made of real mostly North American hardwood, such as basswood, cherry, and maple. Where as faux wood blinds which is french for fake oddly enough, are made out of vinyl, vinyl compounds, and a combination of wood and vinyl depending on what brand you are looking at. I have listed a few comparisons for both types of blinds.

Wood Blinds *
*Solid wood construction,one of the best material you can use

*Many stains and painted colors are available 

*Durable, made in a variety of size slats and options such as cloth tapes &      cordless blinds

*Wood blinds provide good insulation from heat and cold, saving money

Faux Wood Blinds

*Cost effective, faux wood blinds are between 10% to 25% less than a wood blind

*Heat, Fade, and Moisture resistant

*Very easy to clean and has a non porous slat material

     Many different window treatment companies in the Wilmington area offer both types of blinds in various style, color, and cost combinations. One popular choice is the Hunter Douglas “Woodmate” faux blind.  Which is made of a a blend of North American hardwood and polymer material comes in white and natural tones. Then you have the Hunter Douglas “Country Woods” real wood blinds avalable in a countless choices of stained and painted colors. They even have a cordless option which is great. You also have a Graber line of faux wood blinds called “Lake Forest” which are heat, scratch and  moisture resistant, perfect for humid high traffic areas. The real wood blind by made by Graber "Traditions" is available in different slat sizes, made of beautifully selected woods, custom stains as well as a large variety of standard color options are available.

     What should I chose wood or faux wood for my window blinds.  The variety and availability of these blinds give the consumer more comparison choices. To help you become informed and answer any other questions you would want to contact a professional window treatment company here in Wilmington, NC area.  Most in this area offer a Free-In-Home consultation.  Where they will measure your windows and show you all the options that you have in the comfort of your own home. Remember its best to get three estimate when looking around for your window treatments and dont be fooled by some company's where there name make you think they are there they cheapest.  Shop around to make sure you see all what all is available and where you can make your dollar stretch the  furthest. 

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Information When Buying Shutters in Wilmington NC

When you start looking for new plantation shutters for your home you have many options to consider.  I have had shutters in all my homes and just recently went through the process of purchasing shutters for our new home. Shutters are an investment in your home and I hope this information helps you.

Wood Shutters

Having your shutter made from wood is the one of the first choice you may think of when looking for shutters.  Although there are much new material that are available now each with its benefits and drawbacks wood is a great choice and gives you the most design options. Most wood plantation shutters today are made from a North American hardwood.  Wood shutters allow you to paint or stain them to any color you would like.  Wood shutters also are a very good choice when needing to cut out heat coming in the window. Wood is one of your best insulating materials for your window treatments. Wood shutters are available in a variety of finishes to complement your decor. You have a louver or slat sizes range from 1" to 5" wide. Typically you see a smaller slat in a traditional setting and larger slat take well with a coastal or modern decorating style. Wood shutter panels can be made wider than any of the other material available.  You can make wood shutters up to 42" wide. Wide panels go great with big windows and smaller slats take well to a smaller window. Wood shutters are able to fit just about any shape window from arch windows to sliding doors.  Motorization is available only with wood shutters.  If you choose to go with the motorization option on your shutters I would strongly suggest the solar power option.  The shutter has a small solar panel on the back that you can’t see form inside and constantly keeps battery charged.  No need to ever change the batteries every year or so.  When I shopped for my last shutter I was amazed at the finish that was offered from different companies.  It basically comes down to how many coats of paint they use and is it baked on finish. I looked at some wood shutters when shopping that the finish was horrible.  I would recommend staying away from national chains or franchise blind company’s because I found they all had poor quality and they were very expensive.  I would suggest asking some of your neighbors that might have shutters in there home and always give 2-3 estimates from different companies.  You can speed up the shopping process by simply calling around to different companies in town and ask how much does there shutters run a square foot.  When calling around you will find big difference is cost.  Most of the time a quality wood shutter in this area will cost anywhere from $24-$36 a square foot

Composite or Faux Wood Shutters

Composite material or as some may call it faux wood is the most popular material on the market now for having shutters made.  Over the last few years they have really perfected the composite material to look very close to wood.  There are a lot of advantages to using a composite material when having your shutters made. A big plus is the ability to wipe down or dust of the shutter easily.  The composite material is non porous material so it can be wiped off with a damp rag so dirt and dust can come right off.  It also is great for areas such as bathrooms and kitchen windows over sinks.  I have had some of my wood shutters that didn’t hold up that well on rooms or areas where humidity and moisture was a factor.  The finish on most composite shutters has a UV inhibitor in them so that they will not fade in the sun over time.  That would be one thing I would discuss with the salesperson when you are shopping for your shutters.  What does the warranty on this shutter cover and does it cover them discoloring or fading over time?  One thing you will find is that the composite shutters weigh twice as much as wood shutters.  I know it’s opposite of what you would think but composite shutters are very heavy.  So the shutter panels can only be made up to a maximum of 30” wide per panel.  If you want to go with a wide shutter panel look wood shutters might be a better choice depending on your window sizes.  Composite is a pre finished product so it cannot be painted.  I found there is a good amount of color choices available in the whites and off whites.  But very limited in a stain colors and they were not very realistic either.  Composite shutters typically cost less than wood shutters.  When shopping around you will find prices vary from store to store.  But you should expect to pay around $20 to $27 a square foot for a composite shutter.

Well I hope this information helps you when going out to shop for new plantation shutters for your home.  There are many places here in south eastern North Carolina and the Wilmington area that you can look for shutters. Shutters are an investment in your home so I would just suggest for you to do your research and get multiple quotes to see what the different stores offer. You will find some stores are much higher and some that are much lower priced out there.  Make sure you see a sample before you buy and don’t just assume that all shutters are the same. That way you know you made a good choice.