Plantation shutters are one of the most popular window treatments in the UK right now, and Kent homes suit them particularly well. Here are the key things to know before booking anyone to measure up.
What Are They?
Plantation shutters are solid, hinged panels fitted inside your window frame. Each panel carries horizontal slats, called louvres, which tilt open or closed to control light and privacy. Unlike curtains or blinds, they sit flush with the window and become a fixed part of the room, almost like a piece of furniture.
Styles Available in Kent
| Style | Best For |
|---|---|
| Full Height | Most rooms and window types |
| Tier on Tier | Victorian and Georgian sash windows |
| Cafe Style | Street-facing rooms needing privacy at eye level |
| Solid Panel | Heritage properties, near-blackout bedrooms |
| Tracked | Patio doors, bi-fold doors, wide openings |
| Custom Shaped | Arched, circular, or triangular windows |
Full height shutters are the most popular style across Kent. A single panel of louvres from the top of the frame to the bottom gives you the cleanest look and works well in living rooms, bedrooms, hallways, and bay windows.
Materials and Louvre Sizes
Most shutters come in three materials: hardwood (premium, suits period homes), engineered MDF (stable, great for painted finishes), and waterproof ABS (the right choice for bathrooms and kitchens where damp is a factor).
Louvres come in four widths: 47 mm, 63 mm, 76 mm, and 89 mm. Smaller louvres suit narrower windows and traditional homes. Larger louvres let in more light and feel more modern. Most Kent homes end up with 63 mm or 76 mm. A good fitter will bring samples so you can see each size against your actual window before deciding.
Do They Help with Heat Loss?
Yes. Independent testing has shown that a well-fitted plantation shutter can reduce heat loss through a window by up to 52 per cent. The shutter panel creates a buffer of still air between the glass and the room, which is particularly useful in period homes with single glazing. The gov.uk guidance on planning permission in England and Wales is worth checking if your home is listed or sits in a conservation area, as rules on alterations can vary.
What Does the Process Look Like?
At The VIP Shutter Co, fitting plantation shutters in Kent follows three steps. First, a surveyor visits your home, measures every window, and shows you samples with no pressure to buy. Second, you choose your style, material, louvre size, and finish. Third, your shutters are made to your exact measurements and fitted cleanly, usually in a single visit.
The full process from home visit to fitting day is typically four to six weeks, and the home visit is free with no obligation.
Barry, the founder of The VIP Shutter Co, is a qualified carpenter with more than 25 years of experience. Every installation across Kent is carried out by the team personally, with no subcontracting. Call 01634 943153 or book a free home visit online.
