Top Shutter Installation Services in Ames, IA

Installing shutters in a home may look easy. However, window treatment installation pros warn that shutter installation poses many challenges that might be apparent at first. Measuring correctly for shutter installation is notoriously tricky. There are many variations among windows that will make a difference as to how you measure for your installation project. Some examples of factors that will affect how you take measurements include whether your shutters will be on an inside mount or outside mount. The thickness of the shutter frame, and how deep into the window jamb it will need to sit makes a difference to measuring.

It may make sense to consult a shutter installation contractor. They can advise you about such issues as what type of shutter frame is needed for tilt-in windows, swinging windows or sliders. A professional who is familiar with shutter installation will know exactly how to measure perfectly the first time, which could save you headaches, time, and even money later on. Homeowners who are not familiar with shutter installation may mis-measure, or even damage costly shutters doing an inexpert DIY installation.

There are many styles of shutters which come in a variety of materials. When it comes to deciding what kind of shutters you should install, it could make sense to consult a shutter installation professional. A pro will be familiar with the weather conditions in your area, which is one of the factors to take into consideration when deciding what kind of shutters to install. Exterior window shutters come in an array of materials including medium density fiber (MDF), faux wood, wood, vinyl, and synthetic foam. There are four basic types of shutters. You can choose between Bermuda, board and batten (BnB), paneled, and louvered shutters.

A shutter installation professional can advise you about the best shutter options for your home. Then, among the options that will work best with the type of windows and style of your home, you can choose the style and material that appeals most to you. Installing shutters is a big step, you want to select the very best option in terms of practicality and aesthetics. Consult a shutter installation professional near you to help you make the right choice.

Originally, shutters were made to close over windows to protect the glass. Today, shutters come in a variety of materials and in a variety of types. Each type of shutter and each material offer benefits. First, installing shutters can enhance a home’s appearance. Shutters can add curb appeal to a home, especially if the home is going on the market. Shutters that have been installed purely to enhance the look of a home are non-functional.

However, there are other types of functional shutters. Operable louvered shutters allow homeowners to control light and provide ventilation as needed. Solid panel and board-and-batten shutters are often used for security. These types of shutters can also provide protection when severe weather strikes. Each homeowner has a particular purpose in mind when considering shutter installation. Window treatment installation professionals, and shutter installation specialists can help you decide which type of shutter and which type of shutter material are right for your home.

Installing shutters can enhance the look of a home. Some people install fake shutters that do not open or close, because they feel the fake shutters dress up their home’s windows. In some cases, fake shutters installed in a permanently closed position can be added to a home’s exterior to balance the look of the facade. Adding fake shutters to a home is a purely aesthetic decision.

Many craftsmen in the home improvement industry disapprove of fake shutters because such shutters don’t serve a purpose beyond adding beauty to the property. Operable shutters such as louvered shutters allow homeowners to control light and ventilation. Solid panel and board and batten shutters are useful for security. They also provide protection when severe weather strikes. Some craftsmen feel that choosing to install fake shutters is not the best and most practical decision. As a homeowner, you have to decide for yourself whether it’s worthwhile to install shutters in your home, or whether to leave existing fake shutters in place.

Shutters increase a home’s value in several key ways. Shutters are a classic window treatment that enhances a home’s appearance. Shutters look great inside the house. They also add to a home’s curb appeal. Installing shutters can make a home appear more “finished.” Shutters provide privacy and security. Potential home buyers will be impressed by the availability of privacy afforded by shutters. Shutters are custom-made to fit windows, leaving no gaps. Traditional shutters provide complete privacy. Café shutters allow homeowners to leave the top open, while closing the lower portion. Motorized shutters can be closed and opened throughout the day when no one is home, enhancing security.

Potential home buyers will be impressed by the aesthetic appeal of shutters, and by the privacy and security they provide. In addition, home buyers may be quite impressed by the energy efficiency shutters can provide. Much of a home’s heat and cooling energy escapes through windows. Having the proper type of shutters installed can improve a home’s efficiency, making it more attractive to buyers.

Each one of the assorted shutter materials has benefits and drawbacks. Shutters made of medium density fiber (MDF) look expensive but cost less than wood. MDF shutters are typically covered with vinyl. But they tend to swell and sag over time because they do not stand up well to water. Vinyl shutters are also inexpensive. These are hollow PVC shutters with unfinished edges often covered with caps. Vinyl shutters tend to yellow. They do not offer a popular appearance.

Among wood shutters, basswood is a current homeowner favorite. These days, basswood shutters have outpaced poplar and pine styles. Basswood is a light, flexible material and can be painted and stained. However, basswood shutters are more expensive than those made of synthetic materials. Another downside to shutters crafted of basswood is that they are not moisture resistant. You may want to consult a shutter installation specialist to determine which material is best for your home’s new shutters.