Bay windows are a highlight of any home – they’re a statement feature that enhances a room with glorious natural light and a charming architectural nook. The addition of bay windows has been the tipping point in the sale of plenty of homes, with so many of us keen to enjoy their beauty.
When it comes to finding the perfect window covering, however, bay windows can present a bit of a challenge.
Their shape can make them awkward to cover. Heavy curtains don’t fit easily, and the majority of blinds do nothing to enhance the space. Shutters are the perfect choice – stylish and effective, with the advantage that they’re made to measure, providing a perfect fit.
At the Scottish Shutter Company, we’ve had the pleasure of enhancing hundreds of bay windows across Scotland with delightful shutters – here’s how to get the most out of this top-end window covering.
Why Choose Shutters for Bay Windows?
Let’s start with the obvious question: why shutters?
- They follow the shape of your bay window – Shutters hug the shape they are in, with a custom fitting that’s millimetre perfect. They enhance the window architecture rather than mismatching or hiding the unique character.
- They provide complete light control – no other window covering offers such impressive darkness and complete privacy, while allowing you to direct the light exactly as you want it.
- They are the perfect insulation – Keeping the warm air from escaping through your bay windows can feel impossible until you’ve fitted shutters. Shutters keep your heating bills low.
- They look timeless – No matter the age of your home, or your internal aesthetic, shutters will match and enhance your style.
Shutters answer all the questions that bay windows present, resulting in a final window effect that is as beautiful as it is effective.
Step 1 – Choosing a Shutter Style
Shutters aren’t all the same – picking the right style depends on your room use and personal taste. Consider:
- Full-Height Shutters – Great for light control and insulation, full-height shutters cover the entire window for uncompromising privacy.
- Tier-on-Tier Shutters – Splitting the shutters down the middle adds flexibility. Open the top to let in the light while keeping the bottom closed for privacy, or vice versa. Perfect for street-facing bays where prying eyes from outside are definitely unwelcome.
- Café-Style Shutters – Fitted just to the bottom half of the window, café shutters let in plenty of light at the top while maintaining your privacy in the lower section.
- Solid Panel Shutters – Rather than louvres, solid panel shutters offer complete privacy and near-total “blackout” room darkening when closed. Beautiful in period properties.
Step 2 – Choosing a Shutter Material
Wooden shutters are not the only option, with other choices offering benefits for maintenance and durability.
- Hardwood – The timeless classic, hardwood shutters are luxurious and perfect for many living spaces and bedrooms.
- Coated MDF – Lightweight and easy to clean, MDF-based shutters are cost-effective and look stunning.
- ABS – High-grade plastic shutters are durable and waterproof, perfect for bathrooms and kitchens.
- Aluminium – Strong, waterproof and stylish, aluminium shutters add a level of security for peace of mind.
No matter the material, all our shutters are finished to the highest standards, with colour options to match your home perfectly.
Step 3 – Consider Functionality and Extras
When you have a bay window, it’s not just about covering up the glass – it’s important that your shutter works well in the space. You will want to take into account:
- Access to handles and window openings – A poorly-fitted shutter may often block the window handles, making it difficult to easily open and close the window. At SSC, we take care to install your shutters so that there’s no impairment to window functionality.
- Folding away – We’ll advise you on the best fold to make the most of your bay window space, taking full consideration of angles, room space and how the area is used.
- Automatic controls – As we move towards modern smart homes, more and more shutters are being installed with motorised controls, allowing for easy opening, scheduled closing at the end of the day, and app or voice control.
Getting the Fit Right
A custom fit is essential. Bay window shutters need absolute precision – a millimetre or two out and the whole thing isn’t going to sit right, potentially becoming stuck and ruining the entire effect. That’s why we take accurate measurements and install them with true care. Our fitters will take the time needed to do the job right, leaving you with the perfect customised shutters, made specifically for your bay window.
Installing Bay Window Shutters with The Scottish Shutter Company
We’ve been working with bay windows in a wide range of Scottish homes for decades. Whether you have a rural smallholding or a smaller mid-terrace home in the city centre, we’ve got the expertise needed to fit the perfect shutter.
At SSC, we believe in a personal service that’s built on consultancy, impartial advice and a genuine care that your home is enhanced thanks to the shutters you choose. We’re here to give you honest guidance on the choices available to you, and then to install those shutters with absolute precision. You end up with long-lasting shutters that you love, and we leave satisfied with a job well done.
Make your bay window even more delightful than it is today by enhancing it with the perfect shutters. Contact us today for a free consultation or download our brochure to explore the delights of modern shutters.
