As the mercury rises and the British summer kicks into full swing, many of us find ourselves in a constant battle to keep our homes cool and comfortable. Whilst we Brits love to moan about the weather, when the heat does arrive, it can catch us off guard, leaving us scrambling for fans and ice lollies.
Let us tell you that there is a simple, cost-effective way to keep your home cool and comfortable during the summer months.
Shutters – Interior window shutters are charming window coverings that do far more than just prettify your home. While many of us might associate shutters with quaint cottages or seaside homes, they’re actually a brilliant way to beat the heat and keep your house cool when the temperatures soar.
In this article, we will talk about –
How shutters can help you to keep your home cool & comfortable
You might wonder how a few slats of wood or vinyl can make such a difference to your home’s temperature. Well, it’s not magic – it’s clever engineering!
Blocking direct sunlight
Think of shutters as sunglasses for your windows. Just as your sunnies shield your eyes from harsh rays, shutters prevent the sun’s heat from streaming into your rooms. Adjusting the louvres (those horizontal slats), you can control exactly how much light enters, keeping your home bright without turning it into a greenhouse.
Creating an insulating air barrier
Closed shutters act like a protective shield, trapping a layer of air between themselves and your window. This air pocket serves as a natural insulator; much like a thermos flask keeps your tea warm. In this case, it helps keep the heat outside where it belongs.
Regulating airflow
On those rare days when there’s a refreshing breeze, shutters really come into their own. You can tweak the angle of louvres; directing cool air into your home whilst still maintaining privacy. It’s like having a bespoke ventilation system at your fingertips.
Types of Shutters for Summer Cooling
You have five choices:
- Solid panel shutters: They completely block out light and heat when closed, making them brilliant for keeping your rooms cool. They’re particularly popular in period properties and can add a touch of charm to any façade.
- Plantation shutters: The darlings of interior design world, these wooden window shutters cover your entire window. With wide, adjustable louvres, they offer excellent control over light and heat. Plus, they look absolutely smashing in any room.
- Café-style shutters: They cover just the lower half of your window. Brilliant for ground floor rooms where you want to let in light from the top while maintaining privacy.
- Tier-on-tier shutters: These shutters have two sets in one. The top and bottom halves can be opened independently. On a warm day, you might open the top tier to let in some light and air, while keeping the bottom closed for privacy and cooling. They’re brilliant for bedrooms or living rooms where you want maximum flexibility.
- Bay window shutters: These are bespoke shutters. Designed specifically for bay windows, these shutters follow the contours of your window perfectly.
Benefits of Window Shutters in Summer
Energy efficiency & cost savings
Everyone loves a good bargain. Well, shutters are energy-saving expert on your windows. Blocking out the sun’s heat, they reduce the need for energy-guzzling air conditioning or electric fans. This means lower energy bills – music to anyone’s ears, especially with today’s rising costs.
Improved temperature control
Shutters give you the power to play thermostat. Too warm? Close them up tight. Need a bit of fresh air? Adjust the louvres.
UV protection for furniture and flooring
We all love a bit of sunshine, but it can wreak havoc on our interiors. Shutters act like sunscreen for your furnishings, protecting them from harmful UV rays. That means your favourite armchair or your grandmother’s antique rug won’t fade or deteriorate as quickly.
Enhanced privacy and security
While we’re focusing on cooling, it’s worth mentioning that shutters are brilliant multitaskers. They offer top-notch privacy. Plus, they add an extra layer of security to your windows, giving you peace of mind whether you’re at home or away on your hols.
Best Practices for Using Shutters to Cool Your Home
Optimal times to open and close shutters
During the day, when the sun’s beating down, keep your shutters closed. This is especially important for east-facing windows in the morning and west-facing ones in the afternoon. Come evening, when things cool off a bit, open them up to let in some fresh air.
Maintenance tips for maximum efficiency
Like anything worth having, shutters need a bit of TLC to keep them in tip-top shape. Give them a regular dust and wipe down to prevent any build-up. Check the hinges and louvres every now and then to make sure everything’s moving smoothly. If you’ve got wooden shutters, a quick polish once in a blue moon will keep them looking new.
Choosing the Right Shutters for Your Home
How do you choose the perfect ones for your humble abode?
Material considerations
First things first, each type has its own strengths.
- Wood: The classic choice. Wooden shutters add a touch of warmth and elegance to any room. They’re brilliant insulators too, but keep in mind they might not fare well in damp areas like bathrooms.
- Vinyl: If you’re after something low-maintenance and budget-friendly, vinyl’s your man. They’re water-resistant, so perfect for kitchens and bathrooms. Plus, they come in a range of colours to suit any decor.
- Composite: They’ve got the look of wood but the durability of vinyl. A bit pricier, but they’ll stand up to whatever the British weather throws at them.
Style and aesthetics
Now, let’s talk looks. Your shutters should complement your home’s style, not clash with it.
- For period properties, traditional wooden shutters with smaller louvres might be just the ticket.
- If you’re all about modern minimalism, consider sleek vinyl shutters with wider louvres.
Don’t forget to think about colour! White is classic, but don’t be afraid to go bold if it suits your style.
Budget considerations
Remember, shutters are an investment in your home.
- Vinyl shutters are usually the most wallet-friendly option.
- Wooden shutters sit at the pricier end, but they can add value to your property.
- Consider the long-term savings on energy bills when budgeting.
When choosing your shutters, think about which rooms they’re for, how much sun those rooms get, and what style suits your home best.
Parting Words
Well, there you have it.
Shutters can reduce your energy bills, boost the value of your property, and create a relaxing environment.
If you’re looking for a simple and cost-effective way to keep your home cool and comfortable this summer, then it’s time to consider shutters. They’re a smart investment that can make a real difference to your home’s comfort.
At Shutters Sale, we are currently offering a summer limited edition sale of 50% off on all shutters. You can avail of this discount offer by visiting our showroom or simply call us for a free in-home measure and quote.