Wooden plantation shutters generally last for up to twenty years, which is one of the reasons they are such an appealing solution for covering windows. However, if they are not cared for in the right way their lifespan could be shortened. There is always a risk of them being damaged if opened too forcefully, or in some cases, if you have a pet that jumps up and scratches or snaps the louvres. Fortunately, there are actions you can take to look after your shutters, and if they do break you can get them repaired to restore their beauty.
Caring for your shutters
If your shutters have any marks or dust on them, simply use a feather duster or microfibre cloth to gently wipe the louvres. You can do this with the shutters open or closed. For stubborn stains use a damp cloth, but don’t ever use harsh chemicals as this can affect the colour of your shutters and damage the finish. Make sure you clean them at least once a week to keep them looking brand new.
Repairing a broken slat
In some cases, you may get a broken slat. This is often the result of accidental physical force, where the shutter is slammed open, crashing into a wall. Unfortunately, when children get their hands on your shutters, they could do this without understanding the implications. If you do have a broken slat, it will usually require a replacement which can be done by yourself with the right instructions, or you could contact a shutter company, like us, to do this for you.
Fixing a broken frame
Broken frames are less common than broken slats and are usually damaged due to excessive pressure placed upon them. Fixing the frame is a bigger and trickier job than replacing a slat as it will require the replacement of the whole frame. This is no easy feat, so you might want to consider putting your DIY skills to one side and get the experts in to replace it for you.
Refurbishment or replacement?
If your shutters are looking tired but are still in working order a refurbishment may be all they need. This would require a new coat of paint to restore their appearance to its former glory and alleviate the cost of a full replacement. However, if your shutters are not functioning how they should and look the worse for wear, it’s probably advisable to replace them with a new set of shutters. This also allows you to change the colour or shutter style to update to your home.
At The Shutter Studio, we offer all aspects of plantation shutter repairs to extend the longevity of your shutters. Find out more here.
Follow our socials for more updates on Instagram, X, and Facebook
