Frequently Asked Questions

Most plantation shutters which are available in the UK are of a similar high quality, although it is wise to be wary about low cost imports. The real key however is the attention to detail of the fitting. At Tunbridge Wells Shutters we have only fully trained fitters. We do not sub contract work. Some other companies who do not specialise in window shutters, will sell the shutters first and then try to find someone who can fit them. When installing shutters, experience is everything. Always ask who will be installing your shutters before you buy them.

When comparing the value of shutters with other window dressings, shutters win every time! Shutters are expected to last 10 to 20+ years depending on what they are made of and how often they are used. This makes them excellent value for money.

Very little after care is required on our shutters. On rare occasions a little tweaking of louvre mechanisms maybe required with a screwdriver. Any accidental damage that occurs can usually be fixed, like replacing louvres or whole panels if required.

Our shutters are manufactured from MDF or hardwood. 

We also have a uPVC waterproof version for shower rooms and areas of high humidity. 

Information about the materials used can be found here.

MDF shutters are made of Medium Density Fibre, and coated using a first-class, innovative manufacturing process and the world's most advanced (patented) coating technology developed in USA. This unique combination of materials make MDF shutters durable and sturdy resistant to chipping, cracking, fading and warping. The main benefit of MDF is that it is about 25% less expensive than solid wood while almost identical in appearance. The downside is that MDF is heavier than the solid wood shutters in our range so they may have limited use in some situations. One of our experts will be happy to advise if they are suitable for your window.

Basswood is from the Pacific Hemlock tree and sold as a Hardwood shutter. Pacific Hemlock is an exceptional and renewable natural wood chosen for its stability, its uniform colouring and proven resistance to warping.

Tunbridge Wells Shutters can match Farrow & Ball, Dulux Heritage, Little Green Paint Company among other ranges. These are available in addition to our standard colours.

Interior shutters, make it very difficult to see into your home from outside; and therefore reduce the likelihood that any expensive items will tempt a thief. It would be wrong however to claim that they would make it more difficult to force an entry into your home, although when the louvres are closed it does give an impression of a more solid barrier which might deter a would be burglar.

Shutters allow you to control the amount of light which comes into your room. There are many factors which will have a bearing, such as the size of louvers and the colour of the shutters, so it is possible; if you wish to give the room a darker "Autumn" feel by using dark stained woods and small louvres, or alternatively you can get a bright "Summer" feel to the room by using larger louvres and bright white shades. At Tunbridge Wells Shutters we believe that shutters can be used to set a "mood" in a room by getting the exact amount and quality of light which you desire in your room.

Shutters are not blackout due to tolerances required for slat movement and the opening and closing of panels. Due to the rebated side style and frame options our panels keep more light out when closed than most others on the market. We have fitted many bedrooms and nurseries, however if you require total blackout a specific blackout shutter is available. Please contact us for further information.

Bay windows really suit the shutter look. They smarten the exterior of the property and add extra insulation. Our bespoke shutters can be made to fit any shape bay window.

As our shutters are bespoke and made to fit each unique window, therefore they are the perfect solution to an unusual shaped window.

Shutters are not just for windows, they look great on patio doors too. The shutters offer privacy and light control, added insulation and are made to measure exactly. If the patio doors or bi-fold doors open outwards we fit a tracked system of sliding shutters.

This is down to personal choice, curtains may impede the opening of the shutter panels. Sometimes Cafe style shutters are dressed using curtains.

Shutters do improve privacy. Shutters are very popular in locations where houses have windows looking directly out onto the road. It is very easy to set the angle of the louvres so that light comes into the house but it is not possible to see inside. Our customers often choose cafe style shutters and have the top of the shutters at head height; so that it is very easy to see out over the shutters, but from the height of the road outside it is impossible to see in.

During our home visit survey one of our team will talk you through our range of styles and the types of shutters we can fit. We have many years of experience and can offer sound advice to ensure you choose the right shutter for your room.

At Tunbridge Wells Shutters we only sell shutters that we install. As such we perform the survey and take the responsibility for the measurements, and then we complete the installation. We take all the risk away from you onto ourselves. We believe that this is the only way to ensure that shutters are fitted to your complete satisfaction.

When you contact us we will arrange a good time to visit your home to talk you through the options, complete a full survey and take measurements.  (Covid-19 guidelines are followed) Following this visit we will send you a no obligation quote.

If you agree to the quote we ask for a deposit and we will then place the order for your made to measure shutters.  These usually take around 14/15 weeks to arrive. 

In the meantime we will book your installation date.   

It is possible to give you an indication of cost if you contact us with the size of your window or door. We cannot confirm this quote until a full survey has been completed.

The shutters are made to measure for your unique window, they take around 14/15 weeks from the time we receive your deposit.

Our own fitters will arrive at the agreed time and carry out the installation. (Covid-19 guidelines are followed) Dust sheets will be used when needed.  We ensure we leave everything clean and tidy and unlike our competitors we take our rubbish with us.

In order to ensure safe working practices and conditions please ensure existing window dressings are removed including blinds etc. We ask that the area is free of furniture and items that could be damaged are removed.

Whilst every care is taken in your property, we cannot be held responsible for damages.

After our home visit and survey a no obligation quote will be sent to you. When you accept the quote we will ask for a deposit of no more than 50% of the total price. This is payable by bank transfer or card. The balance will be payable in full upon satisfactory completion of the fitting of the shutters.

Tunbridge Wells Shutters warrant that our shutters will, as a result of normal use, remain in perfect condition for 5 years from the date of installation. This includes colour fastness, materials and workmanship. Tunbridge Wells Shutters are not liable for incidental or consequential damages; or for any expense arising from such damages. Repair or replacement of similar shutters to defective products is the sole remedy under this warranty and in no event will Tunbridge Wells Shutters be liable for costs for the remedy of defects to a product that they have not originally fitted. This warranty does not cover:- Fair wear and tear, accidents, unauthorised repairs, misuse, alterations, abuse or acts of God. All other warranties; both express and implied; are expressly disclaimed. This warranty excludes all liability for consequential or incidental damages for any cause whatsoever.

Our Covid-19 Policy can be found here.