"How To" Video Gallery - Plantation Shutters
DIY made easy! We have created this video gallery to centralise all the information you need to measure, order and install your Plantation Shutters.
Please note: We are making some updates to our videos really soon! We'll launch a new introduction video, update our layout chart info and improve our how-to-measure and how-to-install videos too. But in the meantime, the info you find on the how-to-measure and how-to-install videos is still correct. Happy viewing!
Check Measure Worksheet PVC Panel Layout Chart PVC Dimensions Chart
Getting Started
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The iseekblinds new Plantation Shutter program - an introduction |
Plantation Shutters - Understanding the parts |
| Understanding the Layout Chart | |
How to Measure and Install
| How to Measure - Outside Mount L Frame | How to Install - Direct Mount |
The iseekblinds new Plantation Shutter Program - an Introduction
Michael gives an overview of the iseekblinds new Plantation Shutter program. He takes you through the decision process he went through to find an excellent new supplier with improved quality controls in place to ensure continued high-quality products now and into the future. Selling both Basswood and PVC products, these shutters are colour matched exactly enabling you to use a mix of both throughout your home. Our new "How To" Video galleries will ensure an easy DIY process, saving you $1000's and our new product hubs have been set out with clearer information enabling you to find everything you need in the one place to confidently measure, order online and install your Plantation Shutters.
Basswood vs PVC - What's the difference
Michael discusses the major differences between Basswood and PVC Plantation Shutters. He shares his 2 simple rules. 1. Less is more 2. You must follow your window. The first step in understanding which type to use in your rooms is to measure your windows. Then using the Plantation Shutter Layout charts - which specify the maximum widths for each layout variation - decide which panel layout will best suit your window. Easy!
Plantation Shutters - Understanding the parts
In this informative video, Michael takes you through the various parts of a shutter. He shows you where the Tensioning screws are located and how they work. He points out the Stiles, 89mm blades, Top, Middle and Bottom rails, demonstrates a split tilt and gives an overview of the various Frame types available. Inside Mount L Frame, Z Frame, U Channel, Direct Mount and an Outside Mount L Frame. This video runs for 8 minutes, however, the information will prove invaluable if you are looking to purchase Plantation Shutters.
All about Mid Rails, Split Tilts, Top & Bottom Rails
Michael takes you through the drop requirements for a Midrail, describes how a mid rail offers stability and strength to the shutter and what you need to know about 'Critical' Midrails. He goes over the meaning of a Split tilt, demonstrates its benefits and shows how each tilt rod can contain up to a maximum of 12 blades. He takes you through the sizes of Top and Bottom rails, explains how these sizes can vary based on the overall width and the importance of naming your rooms correctly to ensure that all shutters in the same room are made with the same Top and Bottom rail specifications - vital for a uniform look from both inside and outside the house.
Understanding the Plantation Shutter Layout Charts
Michael has 2 simple rules to follow when deciding which panel layout will best suit your windows. 1. Less is more. 2. You must follow the window. Using the layout charts will assist you to know which shutter type to use - Basswood or PVC based on the overall width of the window. Basswood is a lightweight material with individual panel widths up to 950mm. PVC being a heavier material is limited to individual panel widths up to 760mm. Use the charts to determine which panel layout best suits the flow of your windows and don't overcrowd your windows with too many panels. Michael explains briefly that you always measure from left to right for each panel layout.
How to Measure
How to Measure - Inside Mount L Frame
The most popular way to mount your plantation shutters, an inside mount L Frame gives you the ability to square the frame inside your recess and mount your panels. Michael explains how to measure your windows for an Inside Mounted Plantation Shutter with an L Frame. He goes over the 3 or 4 sided frame options, talks about midrails, split tilts and using the Plantation Shutters Panel layouts in conjunction with the check measure worksheet to get the best result for your windows.
How to Measure - Inside Mount Z Frame
Michael takes you through how to measure for a Z Frame. A Z Frame is used for an inside mounted Plantation Shutter that is to be installed into a square set recess - concrete or plaster. More often than not, these recesses are not quite square. A Z Frame will sit on the face of the wall, covering the edges of the recess resulting in a nice square finish for a perfect result.
How to Measure - Inside Mount Direct Mount
Michael explains how to measure for a Direct Mount. Direct Mounts have no frames and are used particularly for narrow windows - such as the side lights next to a front door. The panel comes with hinges already attached and is simply fixed directly to the recess. Your panel can still open. Directly mounting the panel means you reduce the bulk inside the limited window recess and it ensures that the blades can be made as wide as possible for a great result.
How to Measure - Inside Mount U Channel
Michael describes the uses for a U Channel mount, how to measure for it and how to order this option via the website. U Channels are used where you have an internal wall cavity. A stylish way to divide rooms. The panels are fixed into position so will not open, however, the blades of course do. Split tilts are a common option selected to enable separate operation of sections of the blades for light control and privacy.
How to Measure - Outside Mount L Frame
An Outside Mount L frame is used when you don't have enough depth in your recess to inside mount your shutters. Michael takes you through the how to measure process for 3 variations of window types including a standard window, bull nose sill and a decorative or Victorian architrave. He demonstrates where the frames will sit on the architraves. You will need at least 25mm of flat surface to mount your shutter frame. Michael reiterates that the size you order is the size you will get. No deductions are taken for Outside mounts.
How to Install
How to Install - explaining the extra components included
Michael shows you the various components that can be included with your Plantation Shutters depending upon the layout and frame type you have selected. He explains what they are and where you need to use them in the How to Install process.
How to Install - Assembling your Frame
Michael takes you through the simple process on how to assemble your plantation shutter frame. Each part of the frame will be marked T (Top), B (Bottom), L (Left) or R (Right). Working on a flat surface, use the Hoffman keys to attach the corners together. Gently push the sides of the frames together using your palm. Make sure you mark where the top of the frame is with a bit of tape. This will ensure an easy install. This process is the same for both an inside and an outside mounted shutter.
How to Install - Inside Mount L & Z Frame
A lengthy video (and this is the short version!) Michael takes you through the simple steps to install an Inside Mounted L Frame or Inside Mounted Z Frame. He demonstrates what tools you will need to get the job done and gives you a few key points to note including take your time and always stay level. If you start off square and remain so, your installation will be a breeze.
How to Install - Outside Mount L Frame
Michael takes you through the steps to install an Outside Mounted L Frame. He demonstrates the tools you will need for the installation. Again Michael gives some key points - stay level, preparation is key and follow each step as it comes. He advises watching the How to Install Inside Mount L Frame first for more detailed information. This video will be focusing on the variations on how to install for an Outside mounted L frame. Note that there are some subtle differences between installing Basswood vs PVC shutters based on the different Frame sizes.
How to Install - Direct Mount
An easy installation, Direct Mount panels are fixed directly into the recess. Michael advises the tools required and a few key points to note. He demonstrates the simple steps required to direct mount your panels.
How to Install - U Channel
One of the easiest installations and the shortest video, Michael shows you how to install your U Channel Plantation Shutters.