http://articles.shutters-plus.com/rss.xml A blog about shutters-plus.com daily 365 1901-01-01T00:00+00:00 http://articles.shutters-plus.com/?a=36322 <p>by Gregg Hall</p><p>Most of us would consider the stage where we actually get to choose our window treatment as the best part of decorating our windows. The choice of styles, colors, and fabrics available is nothing short of fantastic. We are fortunate in that we are free to choose the type of fringing, cording, or borders that reflect our individual taste and lifestyle. We can also choose to take a specific color from our window treatment and use it to accent color, either in the same room or through the rest the house. In this way, we have the opportunity to add an extra touch of decorating flair to our environment.<br /><br />If your decorating preference is to hang drapes in your home, you can choose from several styles of draperies and co-ordinating valances. These valances are available in many styles and can be shirred, pleated, swagged, or gathered in many different ways. Some will have scalloped edges, while others are flat. Both the traditional formal and more casual decorating choices can be accommodated by the use of draperies of some type. There certainly are enough choices to make the windows in your space reflect your personal taste.<br /><br />If blinds or shades are the right choice for your room setting, you also have a variety of choices. Blinds are available made from such materials as aluminium, natural materials, or even wood. Mini blinds made of metal offer consumers many special options, such as a variety of sizes, an absolute rainbow of colors, a wide range of finishes, many cloth tapes, and numerous choices of header. Different privacy options, depending on the consumer's wants and needs, can be factored in as well.<br /><br />Fans of natural products might want to consider including mini blinds made of wood in their decorating scheme. Wooden blinds can be purchased in a whole host of sizes. A wide range of color options are yours for the asking, along with a selection of finishes designed to complement a wide variety of decorating options. Natural blinds are once again readily available; most of us have seen bamboo blinds at some point. These blinds are available in both matchstick and sewn slats. Some newer types of natural blinds give off the appearance of being constructed out of fabric.<br /><br />Perhaps a cellular or a fabric shade will create the atmosphere you are trying to create. Cellular shades are available in both see-through and opaque materials and will give a window treatment a very clean look. Fabric shades are available in such styles as Austrian, Roman, pleated, balloon, or bottom arched. Of course, the flat panel shades that most of us are familiar with are another viable option.</p><h3 class="popup">About the Author </h3><p>Gregg Hall is an author living in Navarre Beach Florida. Find more about this as well as shutter blinds at <a href="http://www.shutters-plus.com/">http://www.shutters-plus.com</a></p> 2006-11-12T22:35-05:00 http://articles.shutters-plus.com/?a=36321 <p>by Gregg Hall</p><p>Mini blinds are very popular, and no wonder; they are available in a variety of colors and finishes. They can even be made at home! No matter what look you are trying to achieve in a room, with the selection available these days, any color scheme can be complemented by using a mini blind. Custom orders are also available, if a particular size or style is not readily available from open stock. <br /><br />These stylish window treatments also give us needed privacy and are useful for keeping the sun's rays from entering our homes in hot weather. The use of mini blinds allows homeowners to choose how much natural light a given space is to receive, while not entirely compromising insulation. One particular style of mini blind allows fresh air to circulate into the room by opening or adjusting the angle of the mini blind's slats.<br /><br />In another design option, the mini blind is constructed in such a fashion that the slats actually lie between a couple of transparent pieces of fabric that serve to diffuse light while opened. Still another option in the mini blind realm is to choose a vertical blind which has fabric mounted onto the slats in order to obtain a look very similar to a curtain.<br /><br />Mini blinds can be opened and closed in several ways. The simplest of these involves a cord or a metal chain; some people prefer to open and close their window coverings using a remote control.<br /><br />Several materials can be used to construct mini blinds. Consumers can choose from vinyl, wood, faux wood, or aluminum. Mini blinds made from genuine wood contain this product's unique grain patterns, along with a variety of natural hues. Vinyl or aluminum blinds complement a different decorating style. Their classic profiles work with both a traditional or modern theme.<br /><br />If you like the look of a natural wood product but are not able to justify the cost, you may want to consider a faux wood mini blind. These synthetic products are constructed using PVC or another composite material and will give you the look you crave but at a much lower cost. If price is a main consideration, aluminum would also be a good choice. They offer easy maintenance and are relatively easy to clean. By far the least expensive option is to choose vinyl blinds; the disadvantage of this type is that they are available in standard sizes only.</p><h3 class="popup">About the Author </h3><p>Gregg Hall is an author living in Navarre Beach Florida. Find more about this as well as interior window shutters at <a href="http://www.shutters-plus.com/">http://www.shutters-plus.com</a></p> 2006-11-12T01:55-05:00 http://articles.shutters-plus.com/?a=36320 <p>by Gregg Hall</p><p>When installing mini blinds, what kind of a look are you trying to achieve? The good news is that you have a choice in how to install your mini blinds. Would you prefer that the mini blinds be positioned on the inside of the window or be hung on the outside? The benefit to choosing to mount the mini blind inside the window is that a designer look is achieved. On the other hand, if being able to control the amount of light coming into the room is of primary importance, mounting the mini blinds on the outside of the window is a better choice.<br /><br />To install the mini blind on the inside of the window frame, the first step in the procedure is to determine where the brackets will be positioned across the top of the window. Mark each spot (top, middle, and bottom) along the top of the window and then use a tape measure to determine the distance between each mark. Be sure to make note of the shortest length. Keep in mind that at least 1&quot; of clearance will be required in order to successfully fasten the brackets to the inside casing.<br /><br />If you would like to mount the mini blind on the outside of the window, the first thing to do would be to measure the width of the window you want to cover. Keep in mind that if you have less than the required 1&quot; of flat space on the inside casing, you will have no choice but to hang your mini blind on the outside of the window frame, no matter what your personal preference might be . Measure your window and be sure to add another 1 1/2&quot; on each side to account for overhang.<br /><br />How to Hang Your Mini Blind<br /><br />Choose whether you want to mount the new mini blind inside or outside of the window. Following the instructions set out above, measure the opening you want to cover.<br /><br />Once you have determined the size of mini blind you require, you are ready to consider what color and style you would like for your home or office. With the variety of choices available from home improvement stores and decorating retailers, this might take a bit of time but it will be well worth it in the end. If a window stop has been installed at the top of the window casing, you will need to remove it before proceeding further.<br /><br />The package of mini blinds should include a set of brackets. Using a screwdriver, fasten the brackets to the window casing or onto the wall if you are hanging the mini blind outside the window at the top. Two or three screws per bracket are usually used for this purpose.<br /><br />Once the brackets are in place, pick up the mini blind so that the wand is to the left side and the lift cord is on the right side. The mini blinds should slide into place in the brackets at the top of the window.<br /><br />Once you have determined that the mini blind is firmly in place, the next step is to place a cap at each end of the brackets. These caps should also have been included in your mini blind package.<br /><br />If, after installation, you find that your mini blind is too long for your window, it is possible to shorten it. By removing some slats from the bottom of the mini blind, the length of the mini blind can be adjusted as desired.<br /><br />By following these simple instructions, you will be able to install your new mini blinds quickly and efficiently. Enjoy your new window covering!</p><h3 class="popup">About the Author </h3><p>Gregg Hall is an author living in Navarre Beach Florida. Find more about this as well as exterior window shutters at <a href="http://www.shutters-plus.com/">http://www.shutters-plus.com</a></p> 2006-11-12T01:53-05:00 http://articles.shutters-plus.com/?a=36319 <p>by Gregg Hall</p><p>If you are looking for a way to freshen up the appearance of the exterior of your home, one great choice to install new exterior shutters. You can find a style of shutter to complement any style of home. As in all situations when considering home renovations, one must examine the features and benefits of the shutters under consideration before making a purchase.<br /><br />When choosing exterior shutters, consumers can choose from many different dimensions and types of materials. Both wood and vinyl shutters are available at your local hardware store; both of these are quite economical choices. Functional hardware can be purchased to make wooden shutters operable.<br /><br />Although exterior shutters can be manufactured from many types of wood, the best choice for this purpose is cedar. Due to its resistance to decay and durability, it is an excellent choice. This low maintenance choice can be used for fences, poles, and window sashes.<br /><br />The secret to cedar's durability is the tannin oil it contains. The oil makes a barrier to keep moisture out and makes the wood unappealing to insect pests. It is necessary, though, to apply a protective coating. The best way to proceed is to apply the finishing product before installation; this will ensure that all surfaces are completely covered.<br /><br />When finishing exterior shutters, the best choice is to start with a coat of oil based primer, tinted to a shade close in color to the top coat chosen. The oil from the primer will sink into the wood to give a long-lasting finish. To obtain the best results when painting, be sure to consult a professional painting firm.<br /><br />To install your new exteriors shutters at your home, be sure to use a 1/2&quot; spacer between the shutter panels and the exterior surface. This will ensure proper ventilation. In the event that functional hardware is not being used, be sure to choose rust-proof screws that can be installed flush to the wood. The screw heads can be painted with the top coat color after installation.<br /><br />Both exterior paint and stain can be used for wooden shutters. If you choose to pain them, be sure to choose an opaque finish. You want to avoid having light penetrate through the paint, which could lead to a breaking down of the wooden fibers with the passing of time. <br /><br />If stain is your finish of choice, be sure that the one you choose is formulated for exterior use. To keep your shutters looking their best, you need to be prepared to perform regular maintenance.<br /><br />Exterior shutters are an easy way to add a splash of color to your home and give it an updated look. It's easy to see why wooden shutters are such a popular choice, making them a must-have item for a stylish home.</p><h3 class="popup">About the Author </h3><p>Gregg Hall is an author living in Navarre Beach Florida. Find more about this as well as exterior shutters at <a href="http://www.shutters-plus.com/">http://www.shutters-plus.com</a></p> 2006-11-12T01:46-05:00 http://articles.shutters-plus.com/?a=36318 <p>by Gregg Hall</p><p>When considering the purchase of shutters for their homes, many consumers are attracted to companies who claim to sell ones that are custom made. This may seem like a good idea, but the truth may actually surprise you. While many firms are able to offer their customers custom-made shutters, what they are actually offering are custom-made interior shutters. This type of shutter is manufactured by taking a prefabricated shutter panel, resizing it by cutting it down to the required dimensions and attaching hinges to complete the shutter panel.<br /><br />As a general rule, if this method is used, a customer will likely find that the blind will not fit the window properly. The shutters may well be out of proportion in relation to the size of the window and depending on the amount that was cut off in the resizing process, the shutter panels themselves may be compromised.<br /><br />Shutters manufactured with man made materials are normally constructed with certain standard components. These components, the stiles, rails, and louvers, would then be trimmed to the desired dimensions. The goal here is to get them to the consumer in a timely manner. In this case, the product may not fit the window properly and the shutter may not be in proper proportion to the window.<br /><br />One can also deal with a company that offers custom shutters, in which case the shutters are manufactured to the dimensions of each particular window. While you would think that this option would ensure a more visually-pleasing product, in reality, this may not be the case. The curb appeal of one's home is very important and there is absolutely no room for inferior workmanship.<br /><br />Even in the case of custom-made shutters, some components, namely the stiles and rails, are designed so the specifications are identical throughout the customer's home or office. The result is that even though the customer is under the impression that the shutters are being manufactured specifically to fit their windows, this is not entirely accurate.<br /><br />When you get to the point that you are ready to purchase shutters for your home, be sure to steer clear of so-called custom-made shutters. The best course of action in this case is to measure your windows to determine what size you require, and then go to the store and get your new shutters in the appropriate dimensions.<br /><br />By following this course of action, you will ensure that you purchase the blinds best suited to your needs. With the choices now available to consumers, it is possible to match a specific element of the decor of your home; you are not limited to either an exterior or interior element of style. With very little effort, you can own the shutters that you have pictured in your mind, and you can rest assured that you will have them on your own terms.</p><h3 class="popup">About the Author </h3><p>Gregg Hall is an author living in Navarre Beach Florida. Find more about this as well as window shutters at <a href="http://www.shutters-plus.com/">http://www.shutters-plus.com</a></p> 2006-11-12T01:43-05:00 http://articles.shutters-plus.com/?a=35519 <p>by Gregg Hall</p><p>When it comes to many home improvement projects a lot of people are fearful or apprehensive about doing them on their own just because they have never done it. When it comes to installing your own shutters this doesn't need to be the case, installing your shutters isn't a difficult process at all. The main thing to remember here is to work with shutters that are specifically built for each individual window opening in unison with the detailed instructions from the manufacturer. <br /><br />The first thing you need to do is measure the window opening where you want to install the shutters. Depending on whether you will mount them on the inside or the outside this is where you will need to measure.<br /><br />If you are going to mount them on the window jamb on the inside of the window opening, which is the preferred method, you will need to know the width and height across the inside of the window framing. The reason this is the preferred method is because it makes for a cleaner installation and doesn't require additional hang strips or frame strips, you just have to be sure the window you are working with is square and has a solid window jamb to screw into.<br /><br />Next you need to determine the depth of the window by measuring from the front plane of the window back to the nearest obstruction that will obstruct the louvers and keep them from rotating. If you prefer, the manufacturer you bought your shutters from can also tell you the window depth for the style you ordered. Sometimes the manufacturer may suggest an alternative installation method to use in case the window is out of square or if it has a drywall opening without a solid wood jamb using rear hanging strips concealed behind the shutter panels that will allow adjustment up, down, left, and right for easier alignment.<br /><br />If you choose to mount outside of the frame you will attaching to the wall or existing trim just to the outside of the opening of the window. Usually the frame will surround the shutter panels on three or four sides, depending on whether or not a lower sill exists. <br /><br />Hanging strips are used if you decide to install a cafe type shutter style, the hanging strips will be screwed directly to the wall or trim, and the hinge of the shutters attached to the frame or the hanging strips.<br /><br />The old adage of measure twice cut once applies here too, also be sure to use a steel tape for the most accurate measurement possible.</p><h3 class="popup">About the Author </h3><p>Gregg Hall is an author living in Navarre Florida. Find more about this as well as Shutters Plus at <a href="http://www.shutters-plus.com/">http://www.shutters-plus.com</a></p> 2006-08-17T00:41-04:00 http://articles.shutters-plus.com/?a=35502 <p>by Gregg Hall </p><p>There are many choices for wood that you can use for making window shutters but some are better than others. Let's take a look at some of the wood you probably shouldn't use before we look at the ones that are recommended. <br /><br />Although oak is a very good hardwood and makes for great furniture they can present some issue when using them for shutters. For starters, oak is very heavy so oak interior shutters will add a great deal of weight to window jambs. They will also have to be pre-drilled, aren't really suitable for painting, and the louvers are prone to warping. As you can surmise, these aren't a good choice for shutters.<br /><br />Like oak, maple is a very heavy wood and used often for furniture such as dining and bedroom furniture. Because it is so heavy it also requires pre-drilling of the window jambs and the louvers are difficult to tension properly.<br /><br />The next area we will move into are the woods that are suitable for shutters. Poplar is moderately heavy wood and is good to use if the finished product will be painted but the green color and mineral streaks inherent in the wood do not allow for staining. Easily obtained and inexpensive, it results in a lower quality wood shutter.<br /><br />Cedar is a good choice in some cases since it mills and finishes good but it is a very soft wood and is easily dented or scratched. If you are thinking of using the wood for exterior window treatments it is excellent with its resistance to bugs and decay it will last a long time with little maintenance required.<br /><br />Pine is a wood that is used for many different products from building homes to the furnishings in them. It is very soft and there are many grades of pine to choose from. Still this is not at the top of my list to use for your window shutters.<br /><br />The best wood in the opinion of many is basswood. The tree is found mainly on the East Coast of the North America ranging from Quebec in Canada down to Delaware and then as far west as Eastern Kentucky. The trees grow to an average height of over sixty five feet. Basswood is a managed renewable resource and the way that the trees are harvested balances growth of new trees with the removal of others for wood. The resulting shutters are extremely straight and have an indistinct grain and a uniform texture.<br />Basswood results in very straight shutters with a fine indistinct grain, they are easy to mount, and can be stained for a beautiful finish.</p><h3 class="popup">About the Author </h3><p>Gregg Hall is an author living in Navarre Florida. Find more about this as well as Shutters and Blinds at <a href="http://www.shutters-plus.com/">http://www.shutters-plus.com</a></p> 2006-08-15T01:08-04:00