What Are Faux Wood Plantation Shutters?

Faux wood plantation shutters are interior shutters made with plastic or vinyl composites as opposed to real wood.  There are both advantages and disadvantages to using faux wood plantation shutters but the benefits of the interior shutter window treatment remain the same.

• Energy Efficient – Unlike curtains and blinds which absorb and transfer heat into your room, plantation shutters are both energy efficient and UV resistant.  When closed they save money on your heating and cooling costs, and protect the fabric of your furniture from the sun’s damaging rays.
• Complete Light and Privacy Control – Only the heaviest of fabrics give you the light blocking and privacy control of faux wood plantation shutters.  Their solid and quality craftsmanship can block as little or as much light as you would like.
• Versatile Ventilation – Unlike curtains and blinds which can either be closed or partially open, faux wood plantation shutters can have their louvers open to let fresh air and daylight pass through while still providing privacy and sun blocking.  Or, they can swing completely open on their hinges to reveal 100% of the window.

Advantages Of Faux Wood Plantation Shutters

There are a number of advantages of faux wood plantation shutters, primarily the cost.  With a price tag of about 25% less than real wood shutters, most people take the savings over the feeling of real wood shutters.  Faux wood plantation shutters look identical to real wood, have the same energy and light control efficiencies, and operate exactly the same.  For those that cannot afford real wood shutters, faux wood is a great alternative.  In addition, faux wood plantation shutters require even less maintenance than wood.  Simply wipe with a wet cloth to clean. In addition, many plastic and vinyl materials can last over 40 years without showing wear.  Many can even be used outdoors, or in areas where the risk of exposure to the elements eliminates the possibility of wood.

Disadvantages Of Faux Wood Plantation Shutters

Although the lower cost and simple maintenance attracts many buyers of plantation shutters at first, when they physically feel the difference between wood and vinyl, many people have second thoughts.  Faux wood plantation shutters are made with the same craftsmanship and quality as wood shutters.  However, when examined side by side, there is a certain indescribable quality wood.  For many the difference is too subtle to consider the extra cost, but it still remains a major factor for those who want the highest of quality.

Additionally, faux wood plantation shutters are not as versatile in their ability to be matched to the existing trim in the home, as they cannot be stained.  Made from PVC composites, faux wood can only be painted to match your desired color.  Most people agree that the sheen and depth of character that real wood grain popping out of the louvers brings out is worth the extra price.  However if you were planning on purchasing white or any other solid color interior shutter, then faux wood plantation shutters can be an excellent choice.