Shutters are a classic exterior design element that provides beauty, privacy, and protection for windows. While wood is the traditional shutter material, aluminium quickly becomes a preferred option for its durability, weather resistance, and low maintenance qualities. Aluminium Shutters Cape Town offers an extensive selection of stylish and functional aluminium shutters perfect for any home.
Read on to get to know this versatile, modern shutter solution from Western Screens to enhance your home’s curb appeal and comfort.
Benefits of Aluminum Shutters
Aluminium shutters have many benefits, making them a top choice for homes today. One significant advantage of aluminium is its durability. Aluminium is solid and resistant to dents, warping, cracks, and rotting that can damage other shutter materials.
When you choose Western Screens: Your Source for Aluminium Shutters, you get shutters made to provide lasting performance and resist the elements year after year.
Another benefit is aluminium’s superior weather resistance. Aluminum does not swell or deteriorate when exposed to moisture, sun, salt air, and other outdoor elements. This makes aluminium shutters protective in any climate. Homeowners will appreciate aluminium’s ability to withstand all weather conditions.
In addition, aluminium is a low-maintenance material, unlike wood shutters, which require frequent staining and sealing. Western Screens aluminium shutters only need occasional dusting or hose-downs to keep them looking new. Aluminum security shutters Cape Town residents will find easy to maintain.
Aluminum can also be powder-coated in almost any colour or finish desired to match your home’s aesthetic. Western Screens offers over 50 standard colour choices for total customisation. Shutters Cape Town homes can get the perfect colour match with durable aluminium.
Shutter Styles and Components
Aluminium shutters are available from Western Screens in various styles and configurations to suit any home’s needs.
One popular style is louvres, which feature angled slats that can tilt to adjust privacy and light filtering. Operable louvre shutters allow homeowners to tilt the slats closed to cover windows fully as needed.
Another classic style is raised panels, which are flat, decorative rectangular shutters that echo traditional architectural designs. Raised panels can be solid or incorporate cutout patterns.
For sunlight control, Bahama shutters are an excellent choice. These shutters are hinged at the top and can tilt out to shade windows, allowing airflow. Bahama shutters help lower energy costs by blocking direct sun when needed.
Those seeking a cottage or country may opt for board and batten shutters. These feature vertical board shutters paired with batten strips that deliver a pleasing aesthetic.
For windows with unique shapes, Western Screens can provide custom specialty shutters. These can be arched panels, circles, triangles, and other shapes tailored to fit non-standard windows.
Useful Points to Remember While Choosing The Right Aluminium Shutters
When selecting aluminium shutters, keeping your intended use in mind is essential. Consider if you want adjustable light control, visibility reduction, or storm protection. Operable louvres or panels allow you to actively control privacy and airflow as needed.
Also, factor in your location and local conditions that impact durability. Areas with high sun exposure, substantial rainfall, or coastal climates benefit from aluminium’s inherent salt spray resistance. Western Screens’ aluminium stands up to all weather environments.
Look at the colour and finish options as well. Opt for UV-resistant, powder-coated colours suitable for long-lasting exterior use. Custom colour matching is also available if you want shutters in a specific hue.
Ensure the shutters are constructed from heavy-gauge extruded aluminium, which signals quality and longevity. Thinner shutters dent more easily. Knock on shutter samples to check for a solid feel.
The hardware is another important consideration when selecting security shutters Cape Town homes can rely on. Hinges, bolts, and fittings should be made of durable stainless steel that won’t rust when exposed to weather.
Finally, look for generous warranties guaranteeing the finish and overall shutter materials/artistry. Good warranties on quality security shutters Cape Town residents can trust often provide at least 5 years on finish and 10 years or more on general construction.
Proper Shutter Sizing and Installation
As with any home improvement project, accurate measurement and installation are critical for achieving the desired look and performance of the new shutters. Use a tape to measure each window opening’s width and height precisely. Account for any surrounding trim or sills that could interfere with shutter operation. Measure to a 1/8 inch for a tailored fit.
For louvres, allow about a 1-inch light gap on either side to permit air and light flow when slats are closed. Panel shutters can be about the window frame evenly with no gap.
Closely follow the manufacturer’s specifications for positioning hinges, hardware, supports, and other mounting components. Proper placement ensures smooth shutter operation.
Use sturdy fasteners suited for the wall type, such as self-tapping screws for wood and concrete or expanding bolts for brick. Follow the specific anchoring guidelines provided.
Once mounted, thoroughly test opening, closing, and tilting shutters to check for obstructions. Adjust components as needed until operation is smooth.
Caring for Your Aluminum Shutters
The low-maintenance nature of aluminium shutters makes caring for them simple:
- Clean occasionally with mild soap and water using a soft cloth or brush. Avoid harsh chemicals.
- Check fittings are tight. Tighten any loose screws or bolts. Lubricate hinges if needed.
- Inspect for damage after significant storms. Dents are rare, but replace components as required.
- Wash more frequently in salt air environments and apply car wax to protect from corrosion.
- Paint or powder coat as desired to refresh appearance after many years.
Follow these tips to keep Western Screens aluminium shutters looking pristine and functioning smoothly for decades.
Conclusion
Western Screens provides top-quality aluminium shutters that combine visual appeal, functionality, durability, and simple maintenance. Their Alumawood, Amerishutters, and Storm Panel product lines offer solutions for any home. Follow best practices for proper sizing, installation, and occasional care to get lasting performance from these premium aluminium shutters. Use Western Screens shutter products to enhance your home with beauty, security, and style.
