Quality Custom Shutters

If you’re considering purchasing shutters for your windows, you might consider investing your time and energy to find out the difference between 100% solid wood shutters compared to poly or vinyl. Many simply call the vinyl plastic, and that in itself turns many people away.

One hundred percent wood doesn’t always mean the same thing either. Solid wood does not include particleboard that consists of composites that are manufactured from wood shavings and then pressed together. If that doesn’t bother you, look up the process online.

Quality custom shutters, made from solid 100% wood, are not manufactured, and not glued together to create the look of 100% wood. However they will not stand up to the scrutiny of customers who demand high quality 100% wood.

Now that you know the wood to look for, check out the paint on the shutters. The top quality shutter will have 3 coats of base coat and 2 coats of topcoat. Many companies paint their shutters with the louvers closed together. When that happens, the paint is not even and moisture can penetrate the shutters. The correct way to paint the louvers is to paint them before they assemble them. Otherwise the paint does not seal totally so check the edges of the louvers. Staining should be done in similar ways.

The length of the staples used in construction should be 5/8” to 3/4” and when a company cuts corners on the staples, you end up with a product that will not last. Another way to cut corners is by using dowels instead of cutting a solid piece of wood and fit it together like a puzzle. The dowels are easier and faster to install, but will not stand up to the test of time.

Using catches is cheaper than using magnets that are normally recessed into the wood and placed on the backside of the shutter. You should check out the hinge. A quality hinge will not be a butterfly hinge that is cheaper and easier to install. Full panel hinges will be stronger and hold up much longer.
We could go into the making of the vinyl, or plastic shutters, but because of space, we’ll just mention the things that the salespeople claim make them better than wood. They say price is the biggest concern, and many would agree that their customers don’t demand quality, but are interested only in the price factor.

They also claim that the vinyl will not yellow, crack, and never need painting. Some of that may be true, but certainly not all. Some of the vinyl shutters are reinforced with aluminum, and that would make them stronger, but not all manufacturers use it.

So your best bet is to learn the facts before you decide. Check out the materials on both the 100% wood (not composites), and the vinyl. Another great modifier is to find out how long the company has been in business. You certainly don’t want a fly by night operator, but you do need to do your own homework.

Golden West Shutters Specializes in Lake Forest Shutters, Orange County Shutters, and Plantation Shutters Los Angeles.

Modern Plantation Shutters

When you think of plantation shutters, you, like many others, believe they date back before the Civil War. Plantation designates the homes built by slaves in the south during that period. Modern plantation shutters bear no resemblance and there are many more choices. The shutters add a permanent addition and the value of your property increases exponentially.

Your first choice would be the exterior or interior type of shutter. Now we’re going to write about the interior plantation shutter even though both types operate in the same way. However the exterior shutters can be permanently installed and have no function other than to add beauty and individualism to your property.

The interior shutter still provides privacy as well as protection when they are closed. They are easy to use and when you want more for your windows, you can add draperies or curtains without obstructing their use.

When you desire painted shutters to blend with the same color as the room where you install them, the choice would be wood. Vinyl shutters often come in white or off-white colors, but you can change the color of paint on vinyl modern plantation shutters as often as you paint your room. They may need a special paint to adhere.

Modern plantation shutters also give you the choice to control whether or not light enters your room. When you close the louvers tight the room becomes darker, and you can open the louvers while the shutter is still sitting against your window. So you choose from dark to light and all the way in between.

So besides privacy and protection you’ll find the modern plantation shutter comparatively easy to install. They are easy to use and they don’t just sit there collecting dust but when they do, they’re easy to clean. The modern dusters that don’t rely on feathers work well, and when they need extra cleaning a damp cloth works well especially on the vinyl shutters.

If you’re unsure about the installation of your shutters that will be permanently installed, you may want to call in a professional. One good thing about a professional installation, if they make a mistake while measuring, they will order new shutters and of course there will be no charge for the error.

When you do the job yourself, you may be paying double and the increase in costs won’t be absorbed.

Unusual size windows will be no problem and the advice you receive from a professional will be well worth your efforts. 

Golden West Shutters Specializes in Lake Forest Shutters, Orange County Shutters, and Plantation Shutters Los Angeles.

Decorative Exterior Shutters

When you consider shutters old fashioned or long past their usefulness, think again. The new decorative exterior shutters that you open and close from the inside of your home are once again popular. Then when you add decorative to the exterior shutters, you have a totally new and attractive item to dress up your home both on the exterior and interior.
You can design your shutters so they are beautiful from both sides. Or you can have them permanently attached to your home. Then you can have sculpted or raised panels within the panels. There are also flat panels with carvings with many designs added to them. They also cut the panels in strips and install then in the open lattice style. Either way you can still have decorations that you’ll be proud to show off.

Functional exterior shutters can still be open or closed with the option of shutting out the harsh weather, keeping your home cooler, or securing the inside of your home from invaders. You’ll find them in areas where heavy winds assault your home; however they are popping up even in less severe climates and not only for looks. The decorative exterior shutters add a feature that is unique to your home, and your home stands out in contrast to the neighborhood.

The materials for exterior shutters are diverse as well. From the wooden, old-   fashioned ordinary shutters to the wide array of styles that take on an entirely new look. There are metal and vinyl decorative shutters that stand up well against their wooden counterparts.

To see the variety of new shutters visit a company that specializes in shutters, both interior and exterior. Just make sure they also offer the decorative exterior shutters. Take your ideas to them to see if they can use your ideas as they design the shutters to fit your homes designs, whether traditional, conservative or rustic.

You’ll find many shutters offered at your local hardware store, but you won’t see the unique decorative shutters offered by a small business that is hungry for your business. They’ll work with you to construct and design them to your taste, and pocket book. Then they’ll install them, make sure they work as promised, and you’ll be having your neighbors knocking on your door to find out where you bought them.

Lead the crowd as you upgrade your own home and show them how easy it is to start a new fashion statement.  

Golden West Shutters Specializes in Orange County shutters, Shutters in Los Angeles, and window treatments in San Diego.

Interior Shutter Choices

When you consider looking into your interior shutter choices, don’t be confused with the old-fashioned venetian blinds. Their only similarity is that they cover windows. The blinds are long gone and replaced by new, modern, and decorative window coverings like the popular interior shutters.
Your choices are varied, and today even the colors can vary depending on your color schemes. Shutters offer privacy, ventilation and light control, and can insulate your home from the heat or cold. Then when you add their ability to control sound and security, what more would you want for your window coverings.

The shutters are available in different sizes or you can have them custom made to fit any window design. They come in an assortment of materials including wood, vinyl, PVC, or wood composites. The interior shutter louvers are also available in different widths from 1½” to 4½” and the louvers can be adjustable to fit your daily needs. They install the shutters permanently either to the side or on the inside of your windows. They also increase the value of your home.

Wood interior shutters can be painted and repainted to meet the changes when you remodel without modifying the entire window treatment. If you prefer to add curtains or drapes, they will enhance your windows too. However your windows will need no further ornamentation because the interior shutters stand alone in their beauty.

Once you have made the choice of material, design, color and whether custom or pre-made interior shutters, you’ll need to find the most efficient place to purchase them. If you feel confident that you will be able to install them yourself, the pre-made may be your first choice. However if you’re more inclined to have a professional make and install the shutters, you will find companies online to help you in your decision. Custom of course may cost more, but consider that they will also be of a higher quality.

Anytime you hire a contractor to do work in your home especially when you purchase custom interior shutters make sure the professional knows exactly what you want and gives you an exact price. You don’t want any surprises at the end of the process. You want a responsible company who has a place of business, is licensed and carries the proper insurance, like workers comp, and will give you a written contract.

That contract should have all the necessary details including the start time to install the shutters. Since your shutters will be custom made, consider that the contractor will need more of a down payment. Don’t pay in full until they complete the job to your satisfaction.

Golden West Shutters Specializes in Orange County shutters, Shutters in Orange County, and window treatments in Orange County.

orange county shutters, los angeles shutters, san diego shutters, orange county window treatments, plantation shutters los angeles, los angeles shutters, window treatments orange county, window treatments san diego, san diego plantation shutters, lake forest shutters, san diego plantation shutters, Orange County Shutters, plantation shutters orange county, san diego shades, orange county shades, los angeles shades, san diego window treatments, window treatments los angeles, window treatments orange county, san diego window coverings, san diego blinds, los angeles blinds, orange county blinds, drapery los angeles, lake forest shutters

Window Frames: Which One Is Right For Your Home?

If you're a homeowner who wants to make a dramatic change or difference in their home there are number of things you can do. Many of these things also improve the quality of your home's appearance and can be accomplished at wide variety of prices. The one way to both improve the appearance and make a difference inside of a home is to work with your home's window frames.

Believe it or not homes with window frames that are worn or damaged can actually allow wind and rain in and they let all the heat and cool air out. New windows frames can cut air infiltration down to almost zero and when installed with advanced glazings, these new windows can slash nearly 40% off of heating and cooling bills year-round. Furthermore many new windows can free a home from its periodic painting and even rival the fine craftsmanship found in cabinetry.

When it comes to choices for window frames, homeowners have a bigger selection than ever to choose from. Manufacturers have given homeowners more choices through framing materials, different types of glazing, and of course installation options. A good example of this is window replacements. In years and decades past replacing window frames simply meant replacing an old or damaged frame with a new one of exactly the same kind, shape, and design. In more modern times however homeowners looking at window replacement can select from virtually any style, material, and installation. Speaking of installation, homeowners are no longer limited to the old-fashioned "rip out and replace" technique.

The materials used in the construction of window frames has grown exponentially in recent years. No longer is wood the only choice for homeowners. These days homeowners looking at replacing their frames or adding new ones to their home can select from vinyl, aluminum, fiberglass, and even composite plastic. Each of these materials carries pros and cons and selecting the right one can be difficult for some homeowners. Vinyl window frames for example are the most affordable and one of the most durable though they aren't always the most aesthetically pleasing. Wood frames on the other hand are far more expensive and look great but are hard to care for and can begin decaying rather quickly. While the choices are many and will remain so for the foreseeable future, many window frame manufacturers now offer vinyl replacement kits as those types of frames are far more durable than they wood counterparts.

When homeowners begin shopping for window frames they should look for uniform color throughout the frames they are interested in. Also important is to look for joints that are welded with heat instead of joints that are held together with screws and fasteners. While the more affordable screw and fastener joints might seem like the economical way to go, these can easily begin to fall apart and look ragged after only a short time around a homes windows. Homeowners should also take careful notice of blemishes on the frames they are interested in and try to purchase window frames whose finger joints are invisible.

Homeowners interested in completing a window frame replacement project on a small budget might also wish to consider aluminum frames for their windows. Many aluminum frames carry a cost that's comparable to vinyl frames but aluminum remains slightly more durable than vinyl. The only real drawback to using aluminum window framing is that they conduct heat very easily and can be dangerous in homes where careless people and children reside. They're also prone to condensation which can cause wear and tear which is something many homeowners might want to avoid lest they don't mind replacing their window frames at regular intervals. Aluminum frames should essentially be the choice for homeowners who live in warmer climates were cooling bills are far more expensive than their heating bills.

One type of window frame that homeowners often overlook but are pleasantly surprised by is fiberglass. Fiberglass and composite window frames are the newest options on the market and are made from materials very similar to those found on car bumpers. Additionally these types of window frames are both strong and maintenance free just like their vinyl counterparts. If that isn't enough to convince a homeowner to go with fiberglass or composite window frames, their energy efficiency exceeds that of even vinyl and they're extremely affordable too.

Homeowners who want to replace their window frames or have new ones installed will likely be working with a professional as installation alone is backbreaking work that requires precise measurements and fittings. While homeowners may feel there are too many choices available for them after digesting the information in an article such as this one, a professional will help them determine what works best for their home and for their budget.

Golden West Shutters Specializes in Orange County shutters, Los Angeles shutters, and San Diego shutters.

orange county shutters, los angeles shutters, san diego shutters, orange county window treatments, plantation shutters los angeles, los angeles shutters, window treatments orange county, window treatments san diego, san diego plantation shutters, lake forest shutters, san diego plantation shutters, Orange County Shutters, plantation shutters orange county, san diego shades, orange county shades, los angeles shades, san diego window treatments, window treatments los angeles, window treatments orange county, san diego window coverings, san diego blinds, los angeles blinds, orange county blinds, drapery los angeles, lake forest shutters

Beautiful and Affordable Plantation Shutters

You rarely, if ever, see the words beautiful and cheap when describing plantation shutters. They are available, and all you have to do is search for them. When you find those that are beautiful, and expensive, keep looking.

The varieties are too numerous to count in both materials and color. The interior shutters will be cheaper than those installed on the outside of your home because you won’t have to deal with the weather. Normally their use is strictly to control the light and heat or cold from entering your home. The cheaper shutters open or close by turning the louvers by hand with the shutters in the desired position; and you will not need a remote control because they are so easy to move, and one louver controls them all.

There will also be an element of privacy and security when the shutters are in their closed and locked (from the inside) position. Possibly when a person is looking to break into your home, they view the interior shutters as an additional barrier, they will go onto your neighbor’s house where only glass prevents their entrance.

So the most important decision you’ll have to make will be to buy ready-made shutters from the local hardware store, or shop the local professionals who know the ins and outs of custom shutters. The professional will tell you what will work for your area, and also what is not suitable.

If wood is your choice and your shutters must follow the décor in your home, there are still many choices. Shutters painted or stained with simple or elaborate modern designs are there for the asking. There are shutters that need assembling and installed by the homeowner, and they normally come with instructions.

When you want a finished look without looking like those old venetian blinds, with the louvers controlled by cords running through the existing louver that is where the similarity ends. The louvers on most shutters are wider, easier to clean and adjust.

So choose wisely, go online to see pictures and see what you like and how the shutters will change your entire room. Guests will believe you changed your entire home, when in fact you only dressed the windows. Intelligent choices are wise because those shutters will last much longer than curtains or drapes.

However if you still want additional coverage, side drapes or curtains add dramatic tributes to your windows without covering your plantation shutters.

Golden West Shutters Specializes in Orange County shutters, Los Angeles shutters, and San Diego shutters.

orange county shutters, los angeles shutters, san diego shutters, orange county window treatments, plantation shutters los angeles, los angeles shutters, window treatments orange county, window treatments san diego, san diego plantation shutters, lake forest shutters, san diego plantation shutters, Orange County Shutters, plantation shutters orange county, san diego shades, orange county shades, los angeles shades, san diego window treatments, window treatments los angeles, window treatments orange county, san diego window coverings, san diego blinds, los angeles blinds,

Orange County Shutters: Fixed or Functional Window Shutters

The standard window shutters come in two types, fixed or functional. The fixed window shutters normally mounted on the outside of a home and cannot open or close. The cost difference is substantial due to the additional cost for hinges, brackets, and installation. The painted fixed shutters match or contrast the home’s exterior with an added attraction of curb appeal.

The functional window shutters offer added security and installed on the interior window, unless a person lives where hurricanes regularly hit. If that is the case, the exterior shutter would help shelter the home from the storm.

The open or closed functional interior window shutter offers the homeowner the option that provides security as well as privacy. If you live in an area where the sun bombards the home day after day, the closed window shutters helps lighten the load of air conditioners.

Remember the hot sun bleaches color from fabrics inside the home and the window shutters protect that as well.

When a homeowner decides to install fixed shutters to the outside of the home the home takes on a different quality than the neighbors. In many home tracts the homes don’t offer any personal effect and those shutters will make a home stand out from the rest.

Regardless where you install the window shutters, the decisions you make when picking out your window styling shows your taste of both quality and durability. Those shutters remain in the home as a permanent feature and should increase the amount when you sell your home.

The louvers themselves can open or close and options of style and quality of wood enter into the equation. The decisions rest on the homeowner. So pick wisely, and remember you can change the color of your shutters.

Normally carpenters usually install the exterior shutters while window-covering contractors install the interior shutters. One-size-fits-all window shutters simply don’t work on most homes. Custom made window shutters seem to fit better and when the shutters close and lock during a storm, you’ll want that.

No matter the choices you make when you find someone who does the work you desire, get the quote in writing. Ask for references with any contractor and when comparing price with quality ask for more than one quote.

A respectable contractor never objects to a customer asking for additional quotes, they normally are never afraid to put their product up against their competitors.

Golden West Shutters Specializes in Orange County shutters, Los Angeles shutters, and San Diego shutters.

orange county shutters, los angeles shutters, san diego shutters, orange county window treatments, plantation shutters los angeles

Window Treatment Stylish Décor or Economical

If you’re happy with store bought window treatments, you may find the most economical products that have standardized sizes and colors. However if you’re looking for style and décor it is doubtful that you’ll find those in your local department store. That doesn’t mean that to be stylish with décor you will have to hire an expensive professional.

The very first thing you will want to do is check out all of the products. See what you like and compare price then contrast all that you’ve learned with a professional who will be happy to give you a free estimate. Don’t compare apples with oranges. Check for  quality, price and installation and compare the professional with the department store.

What do you want for your windows? Do want them covered at all times, or would you prefer to keep them plain without coverings of any kind? The first item you want should be the one closest to the window. Do you want sheer curtains or draperies or both?

Are you in an area where the sun shines most of the time? The sun shining in through your windows can fade furnishings and carpets. That should be your first challenge as you try to decide what’s best for your home. What do you want your windows to achieve? Do you have double pane windows? Newer homes often have those. Do your windows keep out noise and the sun? Most don’t and the treatment you put on your windows may help achieve those goals.

If you live in a seasonal area you may want your windows to reflect that. By layering them you can keep the windows entirely covered in inclement weather. Then when the weather turns nicer and you want to see outside, the heavier outside treatment can be pulled aside to show the window through sheer curtains.

That still doesn’t answer the question of stylish décor as opposed to economy. If you can only afford one layer on your windows that doesn’t mean that you can’t add other layers when the opportunity presents itself.

The professional who can help you decide will pay for himself in the long run and you won’t have to change the entire scheme of things. Be honest with interior designers who want you as a customer and they will be happy to return to help you complete the ensemble.

Nothing says more to a professional than to have repeat customers.

Golden West Shutters Specializes in Orange County window treatments, Los Angeles window treatments, and San Diego window treatments.

orange county shutters, los angeles shutters, san diego shutters, orange county window treatments, plantation shutters los angeles

Interior Plantation Shutters Traditional or Functional

As you compare interior plantation shutters, you will find that you don’t have to choose between traditional and functional. The interior plantation shutters are both and when you consider the options of color and style you can’t go wrong as you strive to update your windows to popular trends.

First let us explain exactly what the plantation shutter is. The shutters provide the ability to control the sun like no other window coverings. The horizontal wooden slats with the center vertical bar, controls the slats that can be widely opened or tightly closed. That in itself is worth the cost of the plantation shutters. You, the homeowner, can also choose the color and paint the shutters to match your own color scheme, and they will bring uniqueness to your home.

Then when you consider that the interior plantation shutters offer another layer of insulation to your home to either keep the cold out and heat in or the reverse is true as well. That’s one more positive thing for the shutters.

You will also be able to control the position of the shutters from open or closed to anywhere in between. You’ll learn by twisting that center bar you can allow light to seep in and still maintain your privacy.

Compare the plantation shutters with shades, blinds or even draperies that simply don’t have the versatility of the shutters. Once those are open or closed, there is no in between. The window when open, even a little bit, offers no privacy; and when closed you can’t see out unless you move them aside.

When you love the looks of heavy draperies you can add them as a valance, or side drapery. Sheer curtains can be placed in the same way to soften the harsh reminder of the bare window. They can be pulled closed if that is your preference.

The next decision that you will have to make is where to buy them. You will find various types of wood, and in some instances the vinyl shutters are popular however they come with few color choices.
Since the interior plantation shutters will be on your windows indefinitely choose quality over price. A few more dollars will be worth it in the long run. There are also contractors who will help you choose the styles and colors you want, and they will even install them for you.

When you hire professionals just make sure they have references and don’t be afraid to check them out.

Golden West Shutters Specializes in Orange County Plantation Shutters, Los Angeles Plantation Shutters and San Diego Plantation Shutters.

orange county shutters, los angeles shutters, san diego shutters, orange county window treatments, plantation shutters los angeles

Shutters: Many Materials Available For Yours

When people begin to consider installing shutters one of the first things they think about is the type of wood they want their new shutters to be constructed from. What many homeowners are unaware of however is that shutters are no longer available in only wood. Sure there are shutters made of oak, pine, and various other types of wood but they are now available in a greater variety of materials.

Some of these materials are better suited for certain homes which is one reason homeowners need to be aware of these different materials. Homeowners who own a home that resides in areas prone to heavy moisture and/or extreme heat should consider not wood shutters but shutters made of vinyl instead. Just as is the case with their wooden brethren, vinyl shutters come in a wide variety of different styles and quality.

Vinyl shutters require far less maintenance and repair then do wood and metal shutters. Moreover shutters made of vinyl, especially the more expensive ones, mimic the look and even feel of wood shutters. Perhaps best of all however is the cost associated with vinyl shutters. These types of shutters are generally much more affordable than wood and metal shutters.

Should you have any questions about shutters for your home or the different types of material shutters are now made from please be sure to contact us and we'll be happy to help you out.

Golden West Shutters Specializes in

Orange County Shutters, Los Angeles Shutters and San Diego Shutters.

Purchasing Window Blinds: Things To Consider

Installing and purchasing window blinds a home isn't an overly difficult job by any stretch of the imagination. There are however a great number of decisions homeowners must make prior to both the installation and purchase of window blinds. The majority of homeowners are surprised to learn that there are nearly countless name brands as well as knockoff brands and even materials that blinds are constructed from. A homeowner must therefore determine what type of material works best for their home, budget and environment prior to setting foot into a showroom or considering a purchase online.

Homeowners should also keep in mind that different rooms in their home may require a different type of window blinds. The amount of light a room receives and how hot or cool a homeowner wants a specific room to remain need to be taken into heavy consideration before settling on any one type of window blind for a specific room. Of course homeowners can easily select one type of blind and use it throughout their home but the end result will be rooms that are either too light, too dark, too cold and of course to hot.

Window blinds for the living room are the easiest for homeowners to choose even when you consider all of the different brands of material available for such blinds. This is because the living room, while large, is a room that homeowners want to see have the same amount of light throughout the entire area nor is a living room usually damp or overly hot. The only thing that homeowners really need to consider for blinds in the living room is the type of material to use and to select blinds that match the furniture in that specific area.

When homeowners want window blinds for their bedroom there are many relaxing colors and even soft fabrics that can be used for bedrooms. When it comes to blinds for bedrooms however homeowners will usually want a type of window blind that keeps light out to make the room more comfortable for lounging and sleeping in. There are plenty of styles and materials available for bedroom blinds so homeowners will need to spend some time perusing through the many different choices available for these types of blinds.

Window blinds for the bathroom can be a bit tricky for homeowners. Things like humidity and condensation must be factored in and blinds that can withstand these things in spades will need to be selected. Many Venetian blinds as well as roller blinds are great options for bathrooms. In contrast homeowners should avoid fabrics and real wood as those tend to collect mildew in environments that are constantly damp.

Homeowners looking for blinds for the kitchen need to consider many of the same things they would if they were shopping for blinds in the bathroom. This is because kitchens are often full of steam and smoke both of which can easily damage fabric and wood blinds. In fact homeowners should consider purchasing only treated blinds for their kitchens so that their investment is capable of standing up to years of moisture and extreme heat.

Regardless of the room a homeowner wants to put new blinds into, they should always seek the help of a professional. While they may remain apprehensive or have no desire to actually higher a professional contractor for installation, homeowners should at least make a phone call and find a professional who will offer a free consultation so that they can start off on the right foot and so they don't purchase blinds that are wrong for their home.

Golden West Shutters Specializes in Orange County Shutters, Los Angeles Shutters and San Diego Shutters.

orange county shutters, los angeles shutters, san diego shutters, orange county window treatments, plantation shutters los angeles

Decorating With Interior Shutters

When you decorate with interior window shutters, you add a permanent décor to your rooms, one that can be opened entirely, or in the closed position, the slats can be open or closed. You can also add draperies or simply drape a thin curtain across the top of them to give them a finished look. However you don’t need anything else on your window. The interior shutters will add another layer against the heat or cold from the outside. They also add privacy, and will block the sunlight.

The type of shutter you choose will be wood that can be painted to blend or contrast the remainder of the room. You can paint the entire interior wooden shutters before you install them. Vinyl would be your second choice, and you never have to paint the vinyl shutters. They may need dusting or even wiping off with a damp cloth, but that’s all. You don’t have the variety of colors with vinyl and they normally come in tones of white. The wooden shutters should be dusted regularly and unless they are installed in a room where there is steam and/or dampness, the vinyl shutters would be preferable.

The interior shutters can be easily installed by a ‘Do It Yourselfer’ and you wouldn’t need many tools to do the job. If you mount the shutters on the inside of the window box, then all you need to do is secure the screws to the 2x4 frame of the window. If the shutter will be attached outside the window frame, then it will need to be carefully mounted with drywall anchors or attached to a stud to insure stability. Normal hinges will hold the shutters in place.

Without doubt decorating with interior shutters will add uniqueness to your home. They can be seen from the outside, and on the inside you can adjust the light coming into your home. They can be closed to insure privacy or open wide to allow the warmth of the sun to penetrate your home on a cold winter day.

They also add another layer to protect you from the harsh heat of summer days or the cold that blasts against your outside window. In today’s world where you need to control the cost of your utilities, and still have the beauty and privacy of your own desire and tastes within your home, interior shutters are the way to go.

Golden West Shutters Specializes in Orange County Shutters, Los Angeles Shutters and San Diego Shutters.

orange county shutters, los angeles shutters, san diego shutters, orange county window treatments, plantation shutters los angeles

Selecting Exterior Shutters

After having talked quite extensively about how exterior shutters can be utilized in homes, we're now going to offer some tips on how to actually select exterior shutters. Anyone who's ever shopped for exterior shutters would tell you that the number of brands, pricing, and qualities to consider is exhausting. Therefore choosing exterior shutters that work for your home, budget, and personal tastes can be somewhat arduous.

As with any home improvement project homeowners need to consider not only the most cost-effective option but the quality and longevity of the shutters they're interested in as well. Homeowners must also keep in mind that exterior shutters are available in many different shapes and materials and while a cheaper material like vinyl might be the most cost-effective choice, cheaper vinyl shutters often look plastic. In sharp contrast however wood shutters will cost a little bit more and will be much easier on the eyes but they are prone to warping, cracking, and peeling after only a short amount of time.

Should a homeowner select wood or even metal shutters for the exterior of their homes they will need to peruse through a myriad of different woods and metals, all of which offer very different lifespans and quality. Maintenance of their new exterior shutters is something homeowners must consider as well when going over what material will work best for them.

A homeowner may know what type of general exterior shutters they won't see on their home but they may be forced to make compromises when they consider all of the aforementioned information. When in doubt it's best to speak with a professional and should you have any questions about the many different types of exterior shutters out there please be sure to contact us so that we can point you in the right direction!

Golden West Shutters specializes in:

Orange County Shutters - Los Angeles Shutters - San Diego Shutters - Orange Shutters - San Diego Plantation Shutters - Plantation Shutters Los Angeles - Plantation Shutters Orange County - San Diego Shades - Orange County Shades - Los Angeles Shades - San Diego Window Treatments - Window Treatments Los Angeles - Window Treatments Orange County

Installing Your New Orange County Shutters Yourself

Though many of our customers hire us to install the Orange County shutters that they've purchased from us, there is a small group of them that prefers to install their new shutters themselves. While we always recommend professional installation to our customers, we understand that some people prefer to do it themselves or simply don't want to spend additional money on installation which is why we offer the following tips.

Installing Orange County shutters isn't a very difficult process if you keep the following in mind!

• Following Instructions: Any homeowner who aims to install their new shutters themselves should follow the detailed instructions that accompany the shutters they've purchased. Those that deviate from the instructions will always encounter problems.

• Measuring shutters to fit your windows: The measuring process is the first thing that a do-it-yourselfer needs to deal with. Precise measurements are the key to a successful and proper installation.

• Determining the preferred type of installation: Homeowners will also need to determine whether they want to install their new Orange County shutters on the inside of the window opening or on the outside of the window opening. Both types of installations have their pros and cons though most professionals usually recommend that homeowners have their shutters installed on the inside of the window opening.

• Taking it slow/Accuracy: Measurements are a huge part of shutter installation and can be difficult to read at times. Measuring more than once or asking a friend to measure the same thing you just did will help ensure that your measurements are accurate. Rushing through the installation of your shutters can result in damage to your shutters, damage to your window, and can cost you more money. This is why we recommend that every do-it-yourselfer take it slow and even contact a professional when they find themselves frustrated or unsure of anything.

Should you have any questions about installing your new shutters be sure to contact us as will be happy to help!

Golden West Shutters specializes in:

Orange County Shutters - Los Angeles Shutters - San Diego Shutters - Orange Shutters - San Diego Plantation Shutters - Plantation Shutters Los Angeles - Plantation Shutters Orange County - San Diego Shades - Orange County Shades - Los Angeles Shades - San Diego Window Treatments - Window Treatments Los Angeles - Window Treatments Orange County

The Curtain Track Keeping Drapes and Blinds in Line

The differences between a curtain track and a curtain rod are numerous. If the curtain is installed on a rod, the rod is inserted through the top of the entire curtain and the rod is held up by permanent brackets. A track can be installed on either the wall or ceiling with screws and the curtain or blind is attached by hooks.

It is possible for the track to be automated to open or close by the push of a button or switch. It can also be opened or closed by manually pulling on a chain or small rope, and you can’t do that with a rod.

In today’s world where an entire room can be converted to an entertainment center or home theater, the track can be used to close off the entire room with heavy drapes. Even the doors are covered and that is where the automation comes in handy. No searching for the chain in a dark room to draw the drapes open. The advantages of heavy material in a room where the acoustics are important, and the material helps to reduce the outside noise, but it also stops any light from getting through.

The tracks hold the materials firm and in place because they are attached with additional screws and brackets. Therefore they will not droop or bow from the heavy weight of the material. Some tracks are made to go around corners and curves, like a bay window and that provides privacy as well.

When curtains or draperies are hung on tracks they are easily removed for cleaning and then re-hung. The bulk of the curtains are rarely, if ever, touched, and that would be an advantage because the material stays cleaner. When one part of the material becomes damaged it would be easy to remove and replace just that one portion. You wouldn’t have to remove the entire curtain.

Curtain tracks will be a bit more expensive, but when you are looking for perfectly hung curtains, you can’t beat the track system whether they are open or even when closed. The curtains hang in perfect order and don’t tangle or bunch up when you open or close them, and again, they remain cleaner because it won’t be necessary for greasy fingers to touch the material. Another advantage you can open the curtains entirely, or partially, giving the room the needed light, or closed tight where not even a speck of light gets through, and that provides you with additional privacy.

Golden West Shutters Specializes in Orange County shutters, Los Angeles shutters, San Diego shutters, Orange County window treatments, Los Angeles window treatments, San Diego window treatments, Orange County blinds, Los Angeles blinds, San Diego blinds,San Diego plantation shutters, plantation shutters Los Angeles, plantation shutters Orange County, San Diego shades, Orange County shades, Los Angeles shades, window treatments Los Angeles, window treatments Orange County, San Diego window coverings, drapery Los Angeles and Lake Forest shutters.