When it comes to choosing the right shutters for your home, it’s easy to get swept up in aesthetics and forget about the practicalities. Shutters can completely transform a room, providing privacy, light control and a stylish finish. But if you’re not careful, you could end up with poorly fitting, low-quality shutters that look shabby and don’t stand the test of time.
To save you from expensive regrets, we’ve put together a list of the top five mistakes people make when buying shutters. And, more importantly, how to avoid them.
Mistake #1: Choosing the Wrong Material
If you think all shutters are created equal, think again! One of the biggest mistakes homeowners make is picking the wrong material for their needs.
Price over practicality
Cheap MDF (not like our high-density MDF!) and low-quality vinyl might seem like budget-friendly options, but they’re prone to warping, cracking and discolouration over time.
Not considering moisture resistance
Wood shutters might look fantastic in your living room, but put them in a steamy bathroom or above your dishwasher, and you’ll soon have a warped, peeling disaster on your hands.
What to do instead: Choose a material suited to each room. Hardwood shutters are perfect for living spaces and bedrooms, while faux wood or composite shutters are moisture-resistant and ideal for kitchens and bathrooms.
Mistake #2: DIY Measuring & Installation
Unless you have the precision of a Swiss watchmaker and the patience of a saint, measuring and installing shutters yourself is a risky business.
Measuring mistakes
Even a few millimetres off, and your shutters won’t fit properly, leading to awkward gaps or panels that don’t close properly.
DIY installation gone wrong
Without the right tools and expertise, you could end up damaging your shutters, window frames or even your walls.
No professional warranty
When you install shutters yourself, you miss out on the aftercare and guarantees that come with professional fitting.
What to do instead: Always use a professional shutter company that will measure your windows accurately and ensure a perfect installation. It’s the best way to guarantee a flawless fit and long-lasting shutters.
Mistake #3: Prioritising Price Over Quality
We all love a bargain, but when it comes to shutters, the cheapest option isn’t always the best.
Low-cost shutters = low quality
Cheap shutters are often made with inferior materials and flimsy construction, meaning they won’t last as long. As the saying goes, ‘Buy cheap, pay twice!’
Overlooking craftsmanship
Mass-produced shutters might not be built to last, leading to problems with fit, finish and durability. Rough cut edges, misaligned louvres and obvious colour differences are just some of the problems we often see in cheap shutters.
What to do instead: Invest in high-quality, made-to-measure shutters. They may cost more upfront, but they’ll last for years, making them far better value in the long run.
Mistake #4: Ignoring Light & Privacy Needs
Shutters do more than just look good. They also affect how much light and privacy you get in a room.
Louvre size matters
Small louvres provide better privacy, while larger ones let in more light. If you choose the wrong size, your shutters may not work as you’d like in your space.
Picking the wrong shutter style
Full-height shutters, café-style and tier-on-tier all offer different benefits. If you choose without considering your needs, you might end up disappointed.
What to do instead: Work with experts to select shutters that suit your lifestyle. Whether you want maximum light, complete privacy or a balance of both, the right shutters can make all the difference.
Mistake #5: Buying from an Unreliable Supplier
Not all shutter companies are created equal, and choosing the wrong one can leave you with regrets.
Poor reviews and no guarantees
A supplier with bad reviews or no installation guarantee is a red flag.
Buying online without seeing samples
Shutters may look great in pictures, but without seeing and feeling the quality for yourself, you could be in for a nasty surprise.
What to do instead: Choose a trusted, experienced supplier like The Scottish Shutter Company. With expert advice, high-quality materials and professional installation, you’ll get shutters that fit perfectly and last for years – guaranteed!
Why Choose The Scottish Shutter Company?
At The Scottish Shutter Company, we take the guesswork out of buying shutters. Here’s why homeowners trust us:
Bespoke, made-to-measure shutters
Every shutter is crafted to fit your windows perfectly. Our team work with you to make sure you’re 100% happy with what you’re buying and that it’s the very best option for your home.
Expert consultation
We help you choose the best materials, styles and finishes for your home. With over 37 years of experience, we know what will work and what will not. We’re passionate about using our expertise to meet your home’s needs.
Professional installation
Our experienced fitters ensure a flawless finish, backed by a quality guarantee. We won’t rest until we know you’re happy with your shutters.
Get Your Shutters Right, The First Time…
Avoiding these common shutter buying mistakes can save you time, money, and frustration. By choosing the right materials, getting professional measurements and installation, prioritising quality, considering your light and privacy needs and working with a trusted supplier, you’ll end up with shutters that look great and last for years.
Get expert advice and high-quality shutters from The Scottish Shutter Company. Contact us today for a free consultation!
