How Do You Tilt Shutter Louvres?
Here Are the Three Main Shutter Tilt Options – and How to Choose the Right One for You
When you’re choosing shutters for your home, one of the most important decisions is which shutter tilt option to go for.
Now, if you’ve never bought shutters before, that might sound like a strange question. After all, they’re just slats on a hinge, right?
Well – not quite.
One of the key features of plantation shutters is that you can adjust the louvres (slats) to control light, privacy and airflow. And there are three different ways to do that – each with its own look and feel.
Here’s a quick guide to help you choose the tilt option that suits you best:
🔹 1. Traditional Front-Mounted Tilt Rod
This is the classic shutter style most people picture.
You’ll see a slim vertical rod running down the centre of each panel. You move that rod up or down, and all the louvres move together.
It’s simple. It’s tactile. And it’s got a certain charm – especially in period properties or rooms with a more traditional feel.
Best for:
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Older or character homes
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Cottagecore or classic interiors
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Anyone who loves the traditional plantation shutter look
It also makes your shutters a little easier to clean, because you’re not constantly touching the louvres directly.
🔹 2. Hidden Rear-Mounted Tilt Rod
Prefer something a bit more understated?
This option moves the control rod to the back of the panel, tucked neatly onto the rear edge of the louvres, close to the hinges.
From the front, it’s barely visible – but it works in exactly the same way. You tilt the top louvre by hand, and the hidden rod behind the scenes moves the rest.
You get the best of both worlds: a cleaner, more contemporary look without completely losing that traditional shutter feel.
Best for:
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Homes with a mix of modern and classic décor
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Clients who want a subtler style but still prefer physical control
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Those who want to reduce visual clutter without paying extra
🔹 3. Silent Tilt – No Visible Rod at All
If you’re after a truly minimalist finish, Silent Tilt is the one for you.
There’s no rod at the front, and nothing on the back either. Instead, the louvres are connected via a hidden gear system tucked away inside the vertical stile of the panel.
You simply tilt one louvre with your hand, and all the others follow – silently and smoothly. It’s a bit of hidden engineering magic that gives you total control without any visible moving parts.
Best for:
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Clean, modern interiors
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Shaped windows (like triangles or arches)
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Anyone who wants their shutters to be as discreet as possible
Silent Tilt doesn’t cost extra on most of the S:Craft ranges we supply, so if you’re going for a sleek finish, it’s an easy choice.
🔍 So Which Should You Choose?
It really depends on your home, your taste, and how you’ll use the shutters.
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If you love traditional design or have a period property – go with a front tilt rod.
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If you like the idea of something more subtle but still want a bit of visible detail – the rear tilt rod is a lovely balance.
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If you want the cleanest, most modern look – Silent Tilt is the way to go.
Whatever you choose, you’ll still get full control over your light and privacy. It’s just about picking the option that feels right for you.
No matter your room style, there’s a shutter tilt option that will work beautifully. From traditional tilt rods to fully hidden systems, we’ll help you choose the tilt style that suits your space and your lifestyle.
Want to See the Options in Person?
We can show you examples of each tilt type during a home consultation, a virtual video appointment, or in one of our by-appointment-only showrooms in Dundee or Edinburgh. That way, you’ll get the undivided attention of one of our experts – no distractions, no pushy sales chat.
📞 To arrange your visit or consultation, just give us a ring on 0800 086 2989.
We’ll help you find the tilt option that fits your home and your style perfectly.
