Essential Guide to Sliding Outdoor Shutters
- Updated on:
- Written by Bev Fidler
If you’re looking to enhance your outdoor living space with both style and functionality, you’ve come to the right place. Sliding outdoor shutters are a versatile solution that can transform your patio, deck, or balcony into a cozy, adaptable area perfect for any weather.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know about these innovative home additions – from their benefits and design options to installation tips and maintenance advice. Whether you’re seeking privacy, protection from the elements, or simply a touch of elegance for your outdoor area, sliding outdoor shutters might just be the perfect fit for your home.
What Are Sliding Shutters?
Sliding outdoor plantation shutters are versatile window coverings designed for exterior use, offering a perfect blend of functionality and style for your home’s exterior.
Exterior sliding shutters, often made from durable materials like aluminium, are an excellent choice for Australian weather conditions. They can be used to enclose patios, balconies, or large window spaces, effectively transforming them into adaptable outdoor rooms.
These shutters are available in various styles, including louvre shutters with adjustable blades for precise control over light and airflow. Aluminium louvres are particularly popular due to their durability and low maintenance requirements.
With options ranging from bi-folding to multi-panel configurations, sliding outdoor shutters provide homeowners with complete control over their environment, seamlessly bridging the gap between indoor comfort and outdoor living.
Benefits of Sliding Outdoor Shutters
Sliding outdoor shutters offer numerous advantages that make them an attractive option for homeowners:Weather Protection
High-quality shutters shield your outdoor areas from harsh Australian weather conditions. Whether it’s intense sun, heavy rain, or strong winds, exterior sliding shutters provide robust protection, allowing you to enjoy your outdoor space year-round.
Temperature Regulation
Aluminium shutters are excellent insulators. By controlling the amount of sunlight entering your space, they help maintain a comfortable temperature, reducing the need for artificial heating or cooling. Louvre shutters allow you to direct and control airflow, creating a pleasant breeze in your outdoor living areas during warmer months.
Privacy Control and Security
With sliding shutters, you have complete control over your privacy. Adjust the louvre blades or slide the panels to your desired position, balancing visibility and seclusion as needed.
Security plantation shutters can add an extra layer of security to your outdoor spaces, with a locking mechanism that can be installed for added peace of mind.
Versatility
Sliding shutters can function as room dividers, allowing you to section off parts of your outdoor area as needed. This flexibility is particularly useful for large patios or verandas, as they can be attached to hinged, bypass, or sliding patio doors.
Easy operation
Such window treatments require minimum intervention. In fact, some aluminium shutters provide smart control of natural light. You can also rotate the louvres to a specific angle for the best light transmission.
Design Options and Customisation
Sliding outdoor shutters offer a wealth of design options and customisation possibilities to suit various architectural styles and personal preferences:
- Colour Choices: From classic whites to bold statement colours, shutters can be powder-coated in a range of hues to complement or contrast with your home’s exterior.
- Panel Configurations: Choose from bi-folding, multi-panel, or single-panel designs to best suit your space and functional needs. Some systems even allow for curved or angled installations.
- Blade Sizes: Louvre blades come in various sizes, typically 90mm to 150mm. Larger blades offer a more contemporary look and better views when open, while smaller blades provide more privacy when closed.
- Frame Options: Select from Z-frame, L-frame, or U-frame designs to best suit your installation requirements and aesthetic preferences.
- Motorisation: For ultimate convenience, consider motorised sliding shutters. These can be integrated with smart home systems, allowing you to control your shutters via smartphone or voice commands.
- Locking Mechanisms: Various locking options are available for your window space to enhance security and ease of use.
Remember, Classic offers a free measure and quote service to ensure your shutters are perfectly tailored to your space.
Factors to Consider When Choosing Sliding Outdoor Shutters
When selecting sliding outdoor shutters, consider the following factors to ensure you choose the best option for your home:
- Climate: Australian weather conditions vary greatly across the country. Choose materials and designs that can withstand your local climate, whether it’s coastal salt spray, intense heat, or high humidity.
- Architectural Style: Select shutters that complement your home’s exterior. Modern homes might benefit from sleek aluminium shutters, while traditional styles might suit plantation-style louvres.
- Functionality: Determine your primary needs. Are you looking for weather protection, privacy, light control, or a combination of these? This will influence your choice of blade type and size.
- Maintenance Requirements: Aluminium plantation shutters are generally low maintenance, requiring only occasional cleaning with a damp cloth. However, some finishes might need more care than others.
- Budget: While sliding shutters are an investment, there are options available at various price points. Consider long-term value alongside initial costs.
What is the cost of installing external shutters?
The cost of external sliding shutters can vary significantly based on several factors:
- Size: Larger areas or custom sizes will generally cost more.
- Material: Aluminium shutters are often more expensive than PVC but offer greater durability.
- Customisation: Special colours, finishes, or features will increase the price.
- Motorisation: Motorised systems are more expensive than manual ones but offer added convenience.
Maintenance and Care
Proper maintenance of your sliding outdoor shutters ensures their longevity and optimal performance:
- Regular Cleaning: For aluminium shutters, clean them at least every 3-6 months. Use a soft brush or damp cloth with mild soap and water. Avoid harsh chemicals that could damage the finish.
- Lubrication: Apply a silicone-based lubricant to the tracks and moving parts annually or as recommended by the manufacturer. This ensures smooth operation and prevents wear.
- Inspect Regularly: Check for loose fittings, damaged blades, or signs of wear. Address any issues promptly to prevent further damage.
- Saltwater Environments: Clean your shutters more frequently to prevent salt buildup and potential corrosion if you live near the coast.
- Avoid Pressure Washing: High-pressure water can damage the shutters’ finish and mechanisms. Stick to gentle cleaning methods.
- Address Stains Promptly: For stubborn stains on aluminium louvres, use a specialised cleaner recommended by the manufacturer.
- Winter Care: In colder regions, ensure your shutters are fully closed during severe weather to protect them from potential damage.
Remember, low maintenance doesn’t mean no maintenance. Regular care will keep your shutters functioning perfectly for years to come.
Key Takeaways
- Sliding outdoor shutters are versatile, durable, offer weather protection, temperature regulation, privacy control, and security.
- They come in various materials, colours, panel configurations, blade sizes, frame options, and locking mechanisms.
- When choosing consider factors such as your local climate, home's architectural style, primary functional needs, maintenance requirements, and budget.
- Regular maintenance, including cleaning, lubrication, and inspections, is essential to ensure the longevity.
Transform Your Patio with Exterior Sliding Shutters
Outdoor shutters are an excellent solution for sliding doors, and ours are customised to your specifications and follow all regulatory requirements and safety protocols.
If you’re looking for outdoor sliding shutters, ask our specialists for expert advice or a customised quote. Contact Classic Blinds & Shutters today!
