Are Plantation Shutter Kits For Houston Homes Worth It?

Plantation shutter kits might appear to be an easy way to save a few dollars on popular window coverings, but taking the DIY path often falls short of expectations. A demanding assembly process, subpar materials, and limited design options are just some of the downsides of choosing these kits. Learn more about them and why professionally installed, custom shutters are the better choice.

Plantation Shutter Kits Or Expert Installation? What’s The Better Choice For Your Houston Home?

Plantation shutter kits are do-it-yourself packages sent to your door, including pieces you’ll need to build and install on your own. The rails, louvers, and stiles are fabricated according to the measurements you provide. Kits are usually available in vinyl, composite (PVC), and wood construction.

When choosing professionals, a well-trained window treatment specialist does all the measuring and completes the installation. They also bring product samples and help you find the right fit for your home, with the customizations you prefer. 

The biggest perk of plantation shutter kits for Houston homeowners is cost savings, as you don’t have to pay an installer. But there’s a good chance you’ll wish you had. This is a job loaded with snags that can frustrate even the most capable Houston homeowners. 

Talented Houston Installers Vs. Self-Install With Zero Margin For Error

You picture a perfectly installed shutter with no gaps along the border, louvers that turn and manage light effortlessly, and panels that swing open smoothly. That’s the hope, at least. The reality of plantation shutter kits can be a lot different. 

Your measurements need to be spot-on. You’ll usually measure in three places for width (bottom, middle, top) and three spots for height (right, center, and left). For inside-mount installations, you’ll use the smallest number; for outside-mount, the biggest. If your figures are just a fraction off, you can guess the result. The shutters will not fit correctly. 

If you go with an expert installation, the responsibility of getting all the measurements right moves to the window treatment company. You can count on careful measurements that result in an exceptional fit.

Hassle-Free Installation Vs. Challenging DIY Assembly

Putting together the frame, attaching the hinges, hanging the panels, and adding the louvers takes time, effort, and skill to get it done right. If you run into a problem and need assistance, good luck getting somebody over the phone. Your vision of a beautiful, fully functional shutter might turn into a poorly fitted window treatment that doesn’t adjust properly and permits light around the edges. 

You may run into trouble with out-of-square windows or be disappointed with cheap hardware that looks out of place with your home’s design. If you slip up, there’s no professional warranty to make it right.

When you opt for professionals, there’s zero assembly required. Your custom shutters are constructed from exact measurements and installed with care by talented installers, ensuring effortless operation and a beautiful appearance. 

Low-End Materials Vs. Superior, Durable Products

Plantation shutter kits typically don’t include top-tier materials. Wood options do exist, but many are constructed with lower-quality materials like hollow vinyl, lightweight PVC, and medium-density fiberboard (MDF). 

By comparison, a pro installation gives you access to the best materials around, such as premium hardwood treated for moisture resistance or advanced synthetics that hold up for decades. When it comes to durability, longevity, and lasting appeal, there’s really no comparison. 

Restricted Design Options Vs. Full Customization

DIY usually means limited customization. You’ll have a narrow range of choices for things like louver sizes, wood paint and stain colors, operating mechanisms, and frame styles. Shutters installed by professionals can be custom-made to suit your decor and your personal design preferences. Want a divider rail, hidden tilt rod, or a specific louver size? Not a problem.

Skip The Kits And Go With The Finest Shutters in Houston from Sunburst

Avoid the headaches and lower quality of plantation shutter kits. Instead, choose Sunburst Shutters Houston and benefit from stunning, durable window coverings like our Polywood shutters installed with precision. Your window treatments will look and operate just the way you want. Going with the pros might even help you save in the long run, as you won’t have to bother with replacing your shutters repeatedly. Call 713-853-9629 or submit our form to request a free, in-home consultation.