Although shutters have become more mainstream over the past few years, they are still a substantial investment. As with any investment it is important to consider the return and longevity. Kenneth Dove, managing director of Mediterranean Lifestyle, shares a quick guide of what to ask your potential supplier, to ensure you enjoy choosing shutters that last a lifetime.
Locally manufactured, locally assembled or fully imported?
There is a distinct difference, but many suppliers choose to be very economical with this information. Very few companies manufacture their products completely, choosing to either import the finished product or semi-finished components from the East.
When choosing your shutters, make sure they are 100% locally produced. This is important especially with timber shutters, where our local conditions differ greatly from the East. A locally manufactured shutter is built for local conditions, and can be controlled and monitored through the entire process.
Solid wood or wood substitutes?
There is a reason timber has been the backbone of the building industry for centuries. Despite its natural beauty, timber is inherently strong, durable and a fantastic insulator. Many companies offer a wood substitute or composite shutters.
These are just fancy words to describe MDF, or Supawood as it is known in South Africa. These products were designed for panelling and cheap furniture and joinery. This is not an ideal product to be sitting in your window and door, being hammered by the African sun.
Shutter specialist or multi-product store?
With the advent of the imported shutter, shutters are now freely available at flooring stores, curtain makers, and even at some local builders merchants. Be wary of parting with your money to someone who is simply a sales front.
Once the sale is concluded, the responsibility moves on to an import agent, and then on to a factory in the East. Not only will you not receive the attention to detail an investment of this kind deserves, but you will be effectively paying three different companies in the supply chain. Hardly an economical solution. Where possible, deal with the factory direct.
It’s in the details
Choose only stainless steel or aluminium hardware. This is a must for coastal areas, but the inherent strength in these metals makes it a good choice for inland areas as well. Longevity of your product should be one of your key decision factors and cheap hardware is often the first thing to fail on a shutter.
Installation, the final step in the process
Make sure you choose a supplier who has in-house installation teams. This final step in the process is often the most important as this ensures your product works correctly as designed. In-house employees are better trained and are far more accountable.
Visit www.medlifestyle.co.za
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