Question 1

How long do shutters last?

Accepted Answer

A well-made shutter, properly fitted, should last the lifetime of your home. Unlike blinds or curtains which may need replacing every few years, shutters are a one-time investment. Our shutters carry a 12-month guarantee on workmanship and a 5-year guarantee on hardware components and paint finishes as standard.

Question 2

What guarantees do your products carry?

Accepted Answer

We're proud to offer strong guarantees across our entire range. Shutters: 12 months on workmanship, 5 years on hardware and paint finishes. Blinds: 5-year manufacturer's guarantee. Awnings & pergolas: an industry-leading guarantee including 10 years on the framework and coating, 5 years on electronics and fabric, and 3 years on accessories.

Question 3

Do shutters add value to my home?

Accepted Answer

Generally yes. Shutters are widely regarded as a premium finish that appeals to buyers. They photograph well, look impressive from the street, and signal quality — all of which can positively influence how a property is perceived.

Question 4

Are shutters hard to keep clean?

Accepted Answer

Not at all. A quick wipe with a damp cloth is all that's needed for most shutters. There are no fabrics to wash, no cords to tangle, and no mechanisms to go wrong. It's one of the reasons so many customers tell us shutters were the best decision they made for their home.

Question 5

Can shutters be fitted to any window?

Accepted Answer

Almost any window, yes. We've fitted shutters to bay windows, sash windows, arched windows, skylights and some very unusual shapes in between. Every shutter is made to measure, so the shape of your window isn't usually a limitation.

Question 6

What are the different shutter styles?

Accepted Answer

Full height shutters cover the entire window — clean, classic and the most popular choice. Café style covers only the lower half, giving privacy at street level while keeping the top of the window open to light. Tier on tier has independently opening top and bottom panels, giving you complete flexibility over light and privacy at any time of day. Guided shutters run floor-to-ceiling on a track — ideal for bi-fold doors and large openings. Shaped shutters are made to fit non-standard windows such as arched, circular, angled or apex shapes. Solid panel shutters replace the louvres with solid timber for full privacy and a more traditional look.

Question 7

How long does installation take?

Accepted Answer

Most installations take between two and four hours per room, depending on the number and size of windows. We'll give you a clear timeframe when we visit for your survey.

Question 8

How long is the lead time from order to installation?

Accepted Answer

Lead times vary depending on the product and specification. For our UK-manufactured shutters, typical lead times are 4–5 weeks for white finishes and 5–6 weeks for coloured finishes. Our imported range typically runs to 8–10 weeks. We'll confirm your expected timeline when you place your order.

Question 9

Do shutters help with insulation?

Accepted Answer

Yes — this is one of the less well-known benefits of shutters. When closed, the louvres create a layer of air between the glass and the room, which helps retain heat in winter and keep rooms cooler in summer. Many customers notice a real difference in rooms that previously felt draughty or prone to overheating.

Question 10

Do I need to do anything to prepare for installation?

Accepted Answer

Just make sure the windows are accessible. We'll take care of everything else — and we always leave the space clean and tidy when we're done.

Question 11

What types of blinds do you offer?

Accepted Answer

We supply a full range of made-to-measure blinds including roller blinds, Roman blinds, Venetian blinds (faux wood, real wood and aluminium), vertical blinds, pleated and cellular blinds, perfect fit blinds and day & night blinds. All are made to measure by premium UK manufacturers.

Question 12

What's a day & night blind?

Accepted Answer

A day and night blind (also called a vision or zebra blind) has alternating bands of sheer and opaque fabric. By adjusting the position of the blind you can align the bands to let light through, or offset them for privacy. They're particularly popular in kitchens and living rooms.

Question 13

What's a perfect fit blind?

Accepted Answer

Perfect fit blinds clip directly into the window bead without any drilling or fixings into the wall or frame. They're ideal for uPVC windows and doors, and a popular choice for conservatories. They're also a good option for rented properties.

Question 14

Are your blinds made to measure?

Accepted Answer

Yes — every blind we supply is made to your exact measurements. We take all measurements during your home visit so you don't need to worry about getting them wrong.

Question 15

What's the difference between a cassetted and non-cassetted awning?

Accepted Answer

A cassetted awning retracts fully into an aluminium housing when not in use, protecting the fabric and mechanism from the elements and keeping it looking neat. A non-cassetted awning is more exposed when retracted. We generally recommend cassetted systems for longevity and appearance.

Question 16

Are your awnings motorised?

Accepted Answer

Our awnings come with manual operation as standard, with motorised upgrade available. Motorised models can be controlled by remote control and many are compatible with smart home systems. Wind sensors that automatically retract the awning in strong gusts are also available as an optional extra.

Question 17

How much wind can an awning withstand?

Accepted Answer

Our awnings are rated to withstand moderate wind conditions, but we always recommend retracting them in strong winds. Motorised models with wind sensors will do this automatically.

Question 18

Do awnings need planning permission?

Accepted Answer

In most cases, no. Domestic awnings typically fall within permitted development rights. However, if your property is listed or in a conservation area, it's worth checking with your local authority. We're happy to advise.

Question 19

How do I maintain my awning?

Accepted Answer

The fabric should be allowed to dry fully before retracting to prevent mildew. An occasional clean with a soft brush and mild soap solution will keep it looking its best. We'll give you full care instructions on installation.

Question 20

Do I need planning permission for a pergola?

Accepted Answer

In most cases, garden pergolas fall within permitted development rights and don't require planning permission. Exceptions include listed buildings, conservation areas, and very large structures. We recommend checking with your local planning authority if you're unsure — we're happy to help with this.

Question 21

Can a pergola be used in winter?

Accepted Answer

Absolutely — that's one of the main reasons people invest in a louvred roof pergola. With the louvres closed it keeps out rain completely. Add an infrared heater and LED lighting and you have a genuinely usable outdoor space all year round.

Question 22

How long does a pergola installation take?

Accepted Answer

Most pergola installations take one to two days depending on the size and specification. We'll confirm a timeline when we survey the space.

Question 23

Are pergolas freestanding or do they attach to the house?

Accepted Answer

They can be either. Wall-mounted pergolas attach directly to the house and are a popular choice for patios directly outside bi-fold or sliding doors. Freestanding pergolas can be positioned anywhere in the garden. We'll recommend the best option for your space during your consultation.

Question 24

What extras are available?

Accepted Answer

Our pergolas can be specified with integrated LED lighting, infrared heaters, and side screens or panels for privacy and wind protection. These can be included at the point of order or added later.

Question 25

Do you offer free quotes?

Accepted Answer

Yes — always. We'll visit your home, take a look at the windows and spaces involved, and provide a full written quote at no charge and with no obligation.

Question 26

What areas do you cover?

Accepted Answer

We cover Herefordshire and the surrounding region including Cheltenham, Malvern, Worcestershire, Gloucester, Stroud, Monmouth, Ross-on-Wye, Ledbury, Leominster, Cirencester, Broadway and the wider Cotswolds.

Question 27

How do I get started?

Accepted Answer

Simply get in touch by phone or via our contact form and we'll arrange a convenient time to visit. Most people find the whole process much simpler than they expected.

Question 28

What happens at a home visit?

Accepted Answer

We'll come to you at a time that suits, take measurements, discuss your requirements and show you relevant samples. There's no pressure and no obligation — just an honest conversation about what will work best for your home.

Frequently Asked Questions

Shutters

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