Plantation shutters make a beautiful addition to the home, enhancing both its internal and external appeal. Elegant, timeless and energy-efficient, plantation shutters also add value to your property – should you ever wish to sell it.
Before we get into how to clean your plantation shutters, we’d like to share how plantation shutters can increase the value of your home.
How do plantation shutters increase the value of your home?
Longevity
When purchasing a property, potential buyers look at the quality of the home’s fittings. This includes the shutters or blinds. If these are in poor condition and require replacement, it can be off-putting for a potential buyer or pose additional costs the buyer isn’t willing to pay.
Plantation shutters are known for their longevity. Investing in this type of shutter will not only improve the appeal of your home while you live there, but will be appealing to potential buyers in the future.
At Bob Burns Blinds, we pride ourselves on our quality craftsmanship, quick installation and responsive service. If you’re considering new blinds, curtains or shutters for your home, you can contact us for a free measure and quote.
Privacy and security
It comes as no surprise that privacy and security are important to potential buyers. Access points to the home, along with the level of security in the existing structure of the home, are a common consideration.
Fortunately, plantation shutters offer plenty of privacy and security. These shutters can be opened to expose the entire window, closed with the slats down to block out the light or closed with the slats open to let some light in. They can also be locked, keeping unwanted visitors out.
Increased energy efficiency
A report from property marketplace Domain reveals buyers are willing to pay on average $125,000 more for energy-efficient homes in Australia.
There are many ways to make your home energy efficient. One of those ways is by choosing energy-efficient blinds or shutters. Shutters, particularly those made from wood, are excellent insulators that allow the home to moderate its temperature. Investing in windows and shutters that regulate the home’s temperature can significantly reduce your energy bill – a bonus for you and the potential buyer.
Timeless design
When looking at homes, timeless design is an important factor to consider. Not everyone wants to renovate and will instead look for a property that has a classic design that won’t need to be updated. Plantation shutters are known for their timeless design and make for a great unique selling point for a home.
5-step guide to cleaning plantation shutters
A common misconception is that plantation shutters are challenging to clean. So we’ve put together a quick 5-step guide to cleaning plantation shutters to show you just how easy it is to maintain your plantation shutters.
Step 1: Remove dust
It’s important to dust regularly. Not only to keep your home clean but to prevent health issues too. Inhaling a build-up of dust can be harmful to both you and your family, so we recommend dusting at least twice a week. If that seems like a lot, try habit stacking dusting with another habitual activity, like brushing your teeth.
To dust your plantation shutters you can use a microfibre cloth or a vacuum with a dry brush attachment. Just be careful not to chip the paint with the vacuum. You’ll also need to keep the vacuum on a low setting to clean each slat. You can also use a feather duster, gliding the duster gently through each slat.
Step 2: Wipe away debris
Once you’ve removed dust from the shutters, use a micro-fibre cloth to wipe away any excess dust or debris. We recommend using a dry micro-fibre cloth to remove the excess dust before applying a damp cloth to the slats.
Step 3: Avoid using any chemical based cleaning products
It may be tempting to give your shutters a good scrub with cleaning products, but it’s best to avoid all chemicals altogether. That’s because plantation shutters are made from natural materials such as basswood, which can lose their colour and finish if exposed to harsh cleaners. It can even strip the paint if the chemicals are too strong.
When it comes to keeping your plantation shutters sparkling like new, opt for a few simple tools – like water and a micro-fibre cloth.
Step 4: Dry
It’s important to make sure the blinds aren’t wet after cleaning. Open the slats and run a dry cloth through them to make sure there is no moisture.
About Bob Burns Blinds
Bob Burns made his first blind in 1954 and his family are still manufacturing at their St. Marys showroom. Now a new generation has joined the company. Russell and Belinda along with Sandy and their selected and highly qualified staff make a knowledgeable and formidable team who take pride in servicing South Australia.
Bob Burns Blinds prides itself on delivering quality products, exceptional service and quick installation. We have an extensive range of window coverings custom made to suit all sizes and requirements both inside and out. Our great range of interior and exterior blinds as well as security doors and shutters ensure Bob Burns Blinds can offer something for everyone. All products are available in a range of colours and styles and installed by our experienced installers.
