PVC Shutters
Installing PVC shutters in your home or office, will do wonders for your interior aesthetic. Apart from their stylistic value, window shutters provide exceptional light and air filtering capabilities. This allows you to effortlessly regulate the temperature of your room and makes them ideal choice for home window coverings. Custom Shutters are available in a wide range of materials, with one of the most popular materials being PVC.
These shutters are window shutters made from polyvinyl chloride. This material has a neutral reaction to heat and possesses high strength properties, making it incredibly durable. Many people make the mistake of opting for cheaper PVC shutters just for the sake of saving themselves a few dollars, without considering the negative aspects of the cheaper option.
Please read on to learn why price should not be the only determining factor, when it comes to buying these custom shutters and understand some of the drawbacks of choosing no frills PVC shutter.
Benefits Of Buying Quality PVC Shutters
- Cost-effective: quality of these shutters are actually more cost-effective than their cheaper counterparts. While they may cost more than some other window shutters, they are far more durable which allows them to last considerably longer. This results in better value for money in the long term.
- Durability: quality of these shutters are durable because they have high resistance to factors that are capable of damaging the integrity of shutters that are made from inferior materials. with low-quality shutters, durability is suspect.
- UV protection: one of the primary reasons shutters are installed is to filter the light that enters through. The sun’s powerful UV rays are detrimental to human health, and quality of these shutter are equipped with coatings that effectively filter the rays that enter your home or office space.
- Beauty: While poor quality shutters can be beautiful too, their vulnerability to natural wear and tear, typically causes their appearance to deteriorate over time. However, this is not the case with high-quality PVC shutters, as they retain their original beauty for extended periods.
Tips to Choosing PVC Shutters
The next question is “how to identify quality of these shutters?” The following is a list of tips to help guide you on how to choose quality of these shutters.
- Toxic-free certification: when low-quality of these shutters are hit by the sun, they emit harmful chemicals. The manufacturers of premium quality shutters ensure their products are rigorously tested and meet specific criteria.
- Product-warranty: quality PVC shutter have warranties that cover any damage or hiccups that may surface in the future, but low-quality PVC shutters do not provide such cover.
- Look and feel: the idea that you need an expert to investigate these shutters before you purchase is advisable, but not compulsory. Self-investigation is possible, when you know what to quality signals to look out for. High-quality PVC shutters have frames that are chiefly made from aluminium. These aluminium frames are not hollow, and provide the shutters have a smooth finish.
- Strength: poor quality PVC shutters tend to twist due to heat from the sun because they do not possess the fire-resistance trait that high-quality PVC shutters do. For this reason, it is always important to enquire about the shutter’s heat absorption properties before purchasing.
- Joints: high-quality of these shutters are made using mortise and tenon joining to give the shutters greater strength, but this is not the case with low-quality shutters.
Conclusion
As outlined on this page, there are many other important factors to consider when purchasing PVC shutters, aside from price alone. Cheap PVC shutters are invariably made from poor quality components that will not stand the test of time. Speak to one of our specialists today about making the right choice of PVC shutter for your home or office environment.
FAQ
Yes, it is possible to paint PVC shutters, but you must be sure to use the right type of paint and follow the proper steps, to ensure a long-lasting finish.
Here are some general tips to keep in mind:
- Clean the shutters: Before applying any paint, be sure to clean the shutters thoroughly to remove any lingering dirt or grime. Soap and water or a cleaning solution designed for PVC is fine. Rinse the shutters and allow them to fully dry.
- Sand the shutters: Sand the shutters gently to create a surface that the paint will stick to. Use a fine-grit (180-220) sandpaper and wipe away any dust with a clean cloth.
- Apply primer: Apply a primer that is designed for use on PVC. This will help the paint to stick to the surface and ensure a high-quality finish. Follow the instructions on the primer to apply it properly.
- Paint the shutters: Use a good quality paint that is designed for use with PVC. Brush or spray the paint on, and follow the manufacturer’s instructions for drying time and application requirements. Apply multiple coats if necessary, allowing each coat to dry completely before applying the next.
- Allow the shutters to dry: Once the final coat of paint has been applied, allow the shutters to fully dry before picking them up or installing them.
Remember that PVC has a tendency to expand and contract with temperature fluctuations, so it’s a good idea to use a paint that can withstand these changes without becoming cracked or peeled. It’s also essential to select a colour that is appropriate for outdoor use and won’t fade or discolour over time.
Aluminium and PVC shutters have their own pros and cons, so choosing one or the other will depend on your specific needs and style preferences.
Aluminium shutters are renowned for their high durability and strength, making them a great option for areas with harsh weather conditions. They also have a high resistance to corrosion and the effects of moisture, making them a good choice for areas that have high humidity. In addition, aluminium shutters offer good security, as they are difficult to break into.
PVC shutters are lightweight and easy to install. They are extremely easy to maintain and clean, as they don’t need to be painted and they don’t stain. PVC shutters are also resistant to moisture and can be used in areas with high humidity.
The choice between aluminium and PVC shutters depends on your needs, budget and style of room that you are going to be installing them into. If you are looking for a long-lasting and durable shutter that provides enhanced home security, aluminium shutters may be your best bet. However, if you are looking for a more affordable and easy-to-look-after option, then PVC shutters may be the smarter choice.
PVC (polyvinyl chloride) is a type of plastic that is widely used in many different applications, including shutters. While PVC itself is not inherently toxic, some of the chemicals used in the manufacturing process can be hazardous to humans and the environment.
Some PVC shutters may contain traces of lead or other heavy metals, which can be toxic if ingested or inhaled. Furthermore, the use of particular chemicals at different steps of the manufacturing process, such as phthalates and bisphenol A (BPA), has raised concerns about the potential health risks associated with exposure to these chemicals.
If you are worried about the potential toxicity of PVC shutters, it’s important to look for ones that are made using safer materials and techniques. Some manufacturers provide PVC shutters that are developed without the use of toxic substances, and may be labelled as “low-VOC” or “eco-friendly.” It’s always a good idea to research the manufacturer and read customer reviews to get a sense of the overall quality and safety of the product.
This depends on several factors, such as intended use, environment in which they are to be used (high/low temperatures, high humidity etc.), personal preferences, and budget. Here are some points to consider:
PVC shutters are typically more affordable than timber shutters, making them a budget-oriented option. They are also more resistant to moisture, and won’t rot or warp over time. PVC shutters are also easy to clean and maintain, and are available in a range of colours and styles.
Timber shutters are more expensive than PVC shutters, but they can also add a touch of warmth and elegance to a room. Timber is a versatile option and they can be painted or stained to match any decor. Timber shutters also have natural insulating properties, which can help to keep a room warmer during the cooler months and cooler during the warmer months.
PVC shutters can discolour over time due to a variety of factors, such as exposure to sunlight, heat, and chemicals. All these things can all cause PVC shutters to lose their colour or become discoloured.
Sunlight is a common cause of discolouration in PVC shutters. Over time, exposure to sunlight can cause PVC to fade, take on a yellowish hue, or become brittle. This is especially true for PVC shutters that are installed in areas with high levels of sunlight.
Heat is another factor that can lead to PVC discolouration. Exposure to high temperatures can cause PVC to warp, crack and fade. This can be especially problematic for PVC shutters that are installed in areas that experience high temperatures either from direct sunlight – or for those who live in colder climates, from being in close proximity to radiators or heaters.
Exposure to chemicals can also cause discolouration in PVC shutters. Contact with cleaning agents, solvents, or other chemicals can cause the material to become discoloured or stained.
To help minimise the threat of discolouration in PVC shutters, it’s important to choose a high-quality product that is designed to resist fading and discolouration. It is also a good idea to clean and maintain the shutters regularly using mild soap and water or a specially formulated cleaning agent.
The appearance of PVC shutters will vary depending on the quality and design of the product. Some PVC shutters have a tendency to look cheap, due to their plastic-like appearance and lack of texture, while others faithfully replicate the look and feel of real timber.
The quality of the PVC material used in the shutters will also affect their appearance. Higher quality PVC will result in a smoother, more refined finish, while a less expensive PVC may have a more obvious grain pattern or uneven texture to it.
Overall, it’s possible for some PVC shutters to look cheap, but it ultimately comes down to the quality the material and its design. It’s always best to see the shutters in person if possible, before making a decision to buy them.
PVC and vinyl are the same thing. PVC stands for polyvinyl chloride. So, there is no difference between PVC shutters and vinyl shutters. Both terms are often used interchangeably to refer to shutters made from the same material.
PVC/vinyl shutters are an ideal choice for homeowners because they are highly durable, require little maintenance, and are very affordable. They have a high resistance to moisture, which makes them suitable for use in high-humidity areas of the home, such as bathrooms and kitchens. They also resist fading and yellowing, so they will look good for many years with minimal care.
That said, the quality of PVC/vinyl shutters can vary depending on the manufacturer and the specific product. It pays to do your research and go with a reputable brand that has a good track record for producing high-quality shutters.
With proper care, PVC shutters can last anywhere from 5 to 20 years. However, this can vary depending on several factors, including:
Quality of materials: PVC shutters made with high-quality materials will naturally last longer than those made with less expensive materials.
Installation: Proper installation can also play an important role in the longevity of PVC shutters. If certain parts aren’t aligned correctly during installation, it can reduce the lifespan of the shutters.
Maintenance: Routine cleaning and maintenance can extend the life of PVC shutters. It’s important to follow the manufacturer’s guidelines for cleaning and maintenance.
Exposure to the elements: PVC shutters that are exposed to extreme weather conditions (high or low temperatures) or direct sunlight for prolonged periods of time, may result in a shorter lifespan.
Both PVC and aluminium shutters have their own unique benefits and drawbacks. Which one is better for you will depend on your needs and preferences. Here are some key points to consider.
Durability: Aluminium shutters are generally more durable than PVC shutters. They have a strong resistance to weathering, corrosion, and the effect of direct sunlight.
Maintenance: PVC shutters require less maintenance than aluminium shutters. They are easy to clean and do not rust or corrode. However, they are susceptible to discolouration over time, and developing a yellow hue, from exposure to sunlight.
Aesthetics: Aluminium shutters are sleek and modern in appearance, helping to add a contemporary look to your space. They also come in a variety of different colours and finishes. PVC shutters offer a more traditional look and come in a limited range of colours.
Insulation: PVC shutters are better insulators than aluminium shutters, helping to keep your home warm in the cooler months and cool during the warmer months.
Price: PVC shutters are generally less expensive than their aluminium counterparts.
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