Most amateur interior designers are familiar with faux wood as a replacement for wood blinds. What many people don't know is that you can also save money on faux wood exterior window coverings. Faux wood plantation shutters are now a common weatherproof design that you can use to invest in your home on a limited budget. Real wood shutters are pricey, especially if your house has several different window sizes that need custom window coverings. The blinds factory will have to custom mill your shutters out of hardwood. While wood can be undoubtedly beautiful, faux wood is a better option in some situations. Economical options like fake wood allow you to design your house to your own specifications, and still have a little wiggle-room in the wallet for any modifications.
One especially good aspect of fake wood is that it does not warp or crack in moisture like wood. This means you can have old school exterior shutters that will maintain their bright look in the sun and weather. Faux plantation shutters are made in a factory-engineered process that attempts to replicate the weight and style of real wood window coverings. The material may be particle board, milled plastic, or a plastic-wood pulp composite. The material is then sealed and finished in a wood-grain replica. A quality plantation shutter manufacturer should be able to make the slats appear to be real wood except upon close inspection. If you work it out well with the factory, you will end up with quality shutters for half the price. There are cheap imitation wood blinds that are obvious, but as long as you check them yourself they are easily avoided.
Luckily. with faux wood designs, everything can be custom made. The first step for a custom window coverings is to measure your window frame. You will want to contact the manufacturer on their measuring guidelines, as they can be different. Then follow their instructions to measure the length and width of your window frames. Unconventional window openings may require custom cutting or multiple rows of louvers.
There are other wood alternatives for shutters. Vinyl shutters are also inexpensive and do a good job at insulating your home. Vinyl comes in many colors and resists weathering better than wood. To find your wood-alternative blinds, the best bet is usually a custom blind manufacturer. However, it is a good idea to check out department stores like Sears for some cheaper ready-made shutters. This will give you an idea of what is available in what price range. You can also visit some online manufacturers that may be a little cheaper because they have just one centralized factory and warehouse that will ship your blinds to you.
For more information on window coverings check out my blinds information blog: Custom Blinds, where I try and give you all the tips you need in integrating your blinds into the decor of your home.
