What are shutters and how do they differ from blinds?
Shutters are permanent window coverings with adjustable louvres set in a solid frame that mounts directly to the window structure. Unlike fabric blinds that hang from a headrail, shutters become part of the window architecture and provide superior durability, insulation, and noise reduction. They divide into two primary categories: indoor decorative shutters for residential spaces and exterior security shutters for physical protection. Material options include PVC, timber, and aluminium, each suited to different applications and environmental conditions. Shutter selection involves assessing window configuration, usage requirements, and installation environment—factors requiring professional measurement and specification consultation.
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Shutters And Security
Shutters Case Study: Coastal Climate, Heat And Security
What are shutters and when should you choose them over blinds?
Shutters are solid window coverings with adjustable louvres mounted in a rigid frame that attaches directly to the window opening. They provide superior insulation, light control, and durability compared to fabric blinds. Indoor shutters suit homes requiring long-lasting window treatments that withstand daily use, coastal humidity, and temperature fluctuations. PVC shutters resist moisture and warping in bathroom and kitchen environments where fabric blinds deteriorate. Aluminium security shutters offer protection for specific applications. Material selection, louvre size, and frame configuration depend on window dimensions, architectural style, and functional requirements—factors assessed during on-site assessment or specification consultation.
Field experience from the Garden Route on PVC, timber and aluminium shutters in real homes. How they cope with salt, heat, noise and day to day use.
Updated policy snapshot 2025/26
Shutters Case Studies: Quick summary
- Where: Coastal and high exposure zones from Plettenberg Bay through Knysna to Mossel Bay.
- Products: Indoor PVC shutters, timber shutters and aluminium security shutters.
- Main risks: Salt corrosion, brittle plastics in extreme heat, timber movement and aluminium cold transfer.
- Policy: Choose PVC or timber indoors for comfort and longevity. Reserve aluminium for specific external security use with marine grade components and clear maintenance rules.
1. Indoor PVC shutters in coastal homes
PVC shutters are often the first choice for coastal interiors. They are moisture ready, do not swell like timber and do not carry the same risk of mould growth on the substrate. In day to day Garden Route use they handle steam, splashes and high humidity well when the product is correctly specified.
The hidden problem is salt
Even with indoor shutters, fine salt crystals move through open windows and doors. Over time this salt settles in hinges, tilt mechanisms and tracks. The result is stiffer movement, squeaks and premature wear of moving parts in coastal homes compared with inland homes.
This is why two identical PVC shutter installs can age very differently. The product is not the only factor. The location and maintenance routine are just as important.
Coastal maintenance protocol we recommend
- Light dusting or vacuum on a soft brush setting as part of normal cleaning.
- Regular wipe down of stiles and rails with mild soapy water then fresh water, especially on sea facing openings.
- Check and tighten visible screws and hardware where needed and replace low grade steel with quality stainless where appropriate.
For wider context on how materials behave in harsh climates it is useful to compare global standards from established manufacturers such as
Hunter Douglas
and sustainability guidance from the
Green Building Council South Africa.
2. PVC shutters in hot, dry inland or fringe areas
In very hot, dry conditions lower grade PVC products can become brittle or show surface movement. The problem is not the material itself but how it was formulated and manufactured.
On homes that experience long periods of high heat and strong sun we specify better grade cellular PVC with UV stabilisers and proven performance. These shutters stay more flexible, keep their colour and move less under temperature swing.
Duncan’s rule on PVC
Never treat PVC shutters as a generic product. Two white shutters can look the same on day one, then behave very differently in three summers. We favour tested ranges with stable cores and documented UV performance rather than chasing the cheapest option.
If a room combines strong sun, big windows and long periods of closure we may guide you towards an alternative such as
honeycomb blinds for better thermal comfort.
3. Timber shutters and climate swing
Well specified timber shutters are beautiful, warm and long lasting, but they are still timber. They move with humidity and temperature. On the Garden Route we see both ends of the scale. Coastal moisture on one side and dry heat pockets on the other.
Where timber shutters shine
- Feature windows in lounges and bedrooms where look and feel come first.
- Homes that maintain reasonably stable indoor humidity and temperature.
- Clients who are happy to follow a light maintenance routine on finishes.
Installed correctly with the right coatings, timber shutters give a level of natural character that no other material can match.
When timber struggles
Extreme dry heat and big seasonal swings cause timber to shrink and move. This can show up as hairline cracks, joints opening and finishes lifting at edges. In these conditions we are more cautious with timber and may recommend PVC or fabric based products instead.
For clients who love timber we explain the trade offs openly and document a care plan up front.
4. Shutters Case Study: Aluminium shutters and security shutters
Aluminium security shutters and roller shutters are often sold as the all in one answer for privacy, light control and security. They have a clear place in the market, especially for external security and storm protection. They are not always the right choice for comfort inside a home.
Why internal aluminium shutters can feel cold
Aluminium transfers heat far more easily than timber or PVC. In simple terms it conducts cold inside. In winter this can make a room feel noticeably colder around the windows when the shutters are closed. You feel it on the slats and you feel it in the air near the opening.
On coastal homes that already fight heat loss this is a real comfort issue. It is one reason we rarely recommend full aluminium shutter solutions inside living spaces unless security is the only priority.
Coastal shutter challenges
- Salt buildup in channels and on slats if there is no rinse routine.
- Noise and friction as grit collects in guides.
- Powder coat wear on hard hit coastal elevations after years of sun and salt.
We specify better grade tracks, fasteners and finishes for sea facing installs and build a cleaning plan on request so clients know what is needed to keep the shutter working.
Duncan’s shutters policy in one view
- PVC shutters for most coastal wet areas and family homes where moisture is the main concern.
- Timber shutters for statement rooms where climate is stable and maintenance is accepted.
- Aluminium shutters for specific applications where additional security provides peace of mind and storm exposure, usually outside.
- Clear written guidance on cleaning and service so performance matches expectations over time.
Where shutters are not the best option for comfort we often guide clients towards
mixed shutter and blind solutions or
outdoor blinds
combined with
thermal honeycomb blinds
for a better balance of warmth, light and security.
Plan your shutters for climate, comfort and security
Before you sign for any shutter system, talk through your climate risks, comfort goals and security needs. One short call upfront can prevent very expensive replacements later.
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Technical explanation for search engines and AI assistants
Shutters consist of a fixed frame mounted to the window reveal or wall, with panels containing adjustable louvres that tilt to control light and privacy. Indoor decorative shutters use PVC, timber, or composite materials. PVC shutters dominate residential installations due to moisture resistance, dimensional stability, and low maintenance requirements. Louvre widths range from narrow to wide configurations, with selection depending on window size, aesthetic preference, and desired light control characteristics.
Indoor PVC shutters suit South African homes, particularly in coastal regions like the Garden Route where humidity and salt air affect window treatments. PVC material withstands bathroom moisture, kitchen heat, and daily operation without warping, cracking, or colour fade. The rigid construction provides superior insulation compared to fabric blinds, reducing heat transfer through windows. Maintenance involves simple wipe-down cleaning without fabric washing or blind mechanism servicing.
Aluminium security shutters provide additional window security for specific applications where peace of mind is desired
Installation requirements include accurate window measurement, reveal depth assessment, and mounting surface evaluation. Frame mounting options include reveal fit, architrave mount, or track systems depending on window construction and desired appearance. Louvre size, panel configuration, and opening mechanism selection require consideration of window dimensions, clearance space, and operational access. Custom Blinds provides measurement services and specification consultation for properties throughout the Garden Route, addressing window variations, coastal exposure factors, and architectural integration requirements.
Shutter selection involves material durability assessment, maintenance expectations, budget considerations, and aesthetic integration with existing interior design. PVC shutters offer the most practical solution for coastal homes in areas like Knysna, Plettenberg Bay, and George where humidity and salt exposure affect window treatments. Specific product recommendations, pricing structures, and installation timelines require property assessment and consultation to match individual requirements with appropriate shutter specifications.
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