Prior to windows being covered with a dim or a scrim of muslin — before even glass, interior shutters met the essential requirements for protection against the weather. Flexible, practical and attractive interior shutters have remained in their appeal over the years, making them a suitable option for a variety of rooms from the past.
As with the homes in the purpose of which they were constructed in the beginning, the first shutters were simple: one single piece of tracks, or a grooved rail that was affixed to the wall’s surface. the wall, and also along the bottom of the windows. A different type, comprised of two or more shutters which were vertically hinged. When it was opened, it folded over to the side of the window and hung against the wall. The issue with both designs was that they took the space. In time, a more practical style was developed shutters that were either single or paired that slide into the cavities that were in wall plaster. In the past, they were called privacy shutters, or pocket shutters. A different name is still in use: “Indian” shutters, however, this name was first coined in the 19th century New England, when folks started to make up myths about the original purpose of the shutters in pocket to protect for “Indian attacks.”
The 18th century saw walls from the inside were being moved further into the space. The window’s embrasure, or opening, was deep receding. This recess offered a practical location to store shutters when they were not in use, but also offered new possibilities for woodwork in the interior. Carpenters responded to the need by creating beautiful shutters that elevated shutters above only functional. These shutters can be single-hung or double hung. The latter allows the top and bottom half to open in a different way to let in light while keeping privacy.
Although raised shutters are ideal for the North with its colder climate, Southern homes had different requirements. At the end of the 18th century the louvered shutter taken over the popularity of shutters in the South. The slat in the middle that allowed the shutters to be closed and opened let them deflect the scorching sun while offering ventilation. The plantation shutters, as they were referred to they were visually appealing and also their wide shutters provided rooms with a lighter airier and more spacious feel.
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A lot of companies continue to make interior shutters, providing an array of types and designs including customizable options, such as Palladian designs. Shutters with raised panels are usually referred to as “traditional” and “Colonial,” and louvered shutters are often referred to as “plantation.”
Shutters are made of hardwoods, which are protected from the risk of sap bleeding, as opposed to softwoods. Cedar is a popular choice however, the majority of shutters are made of light and durable basswood domestically and poplar. Additionally, a number of businesses offer a variety of hardwoods that are custom-made. Shutters made of engineered wood as well as acrylics that look like natural wood are also accessible.
Interior shutters can be stained or painted based on the style you prefer. Certain shutter makers will match the stain color on the millwork you have in place or offer guidance on a style that is compatible with the interior décor.
The modern interior shutters are installed in two different ways. Most popular, as it’s the simplest option to install, is a frame mount that has the panels connected to a small frame attached to the window casing or adjacent wall. This technique eliminates the problems caused by windows that aren’t square. In a way, it is more closely in line with the precedent of old. is the inside-mount method where the panels are mounted to wooden strips that are affixed to the jamb of the window.
Another option is available for those who have built-in bookcases or cabinets on the opposite side of their windows. Some businesses can use the cabinetry’s depth to replicate the window jamb, giving the appearance like an embrasured window. Every shutter manufacturer has guidelines online for measuring and the majority of them will be able to help you navigate the process via phone as well.
In deciding the type of shutter that is ideal suitable for the home you live in, make sure you take the time to go through the website of each business. Some of them are committed to using traditional joinery methods with premium wood. Some realize that their customers might not have the luxury of unlimited budgets or may be concerned about the long-term durability of a genuine wood blind in specific conditions. If you’re thinking about louvered shutters be certain to check the dimensions of your louvers (historically they were large dimensions) and consider the impact it can have on the look of the shutters and the appearance of your room.