Methods for Shutters
There are many different methods of construction used for shutter panels. Each manufacturer determines its method of choice and sets up the appropriate equipment suitable for that method. The two most commonly used methods are dowel joinery and mortise and tenon. Because Elite Shutters is a true manufacturer of its product, we are capable of both methods, but we prefer dowel joinery. Most manufacturers will use one method over another based on the nature of their operations. For instance, a mass volume, cookie-cutter producer will choose the quickest method suitable for high volume and promote it as the superior method.
Construction Methods for Shutters
Dowel Construction for Strength
Dowel construction is the industry standard for the joinery of stiles and rails. Dowel joints are designed to allow for maximum glue surface area to withstand shear and racking stress. This joinery has been used for hundreds of years in the fine furniture industry because of its superior strength.
Mortised Hinges
Mortised hinges are very important to achieve a tight fit within your window opening. Without a mortised panel, a gap appears on the hanging side, allowing light between the panel and the frame. Steel construction and a powder-coated finish are the elements of a high-quality hinge.
Glue Coated
Galvanized Steel Staples
One of the most common problems with shutters is a staple failure. We use extra-long galvanized steel staples in the louvers and tilt-rod to ensure that they do not pull out. The staples are glue coated and heat frictionized, which assures that the staples will last the life of the shutter.
Understanding the construction integrity is an important aspect when purchasing a product that will perform and hold up over many years when built properly. There are many products in the marketplace that use varying methods of construction that will be both high and poor quality. So, in short, the method used is only as good as the manufacturer producing it. Other variables will also affect the durability of the shutter panel, such as whether or not the producer uses well-made pins and staples.
Usually, the more cheaply-priced shutters do not use more durable materials and, likewise, more expensive hardware. A well-constructed panel depends on other factors such as the quality of the wood used and, also very importantly, the skill and training of the craftsman assembling the panel. This is one of those topics best discussed at the consultation.
Tension
Adjustment Screws
Every plantation shutter we manufacture comes with at least two separate louver tension adjustment points. Without tension adjustments, the louvers can loosen over time and prevent the shutters from staying in the correct position. With the simple turn of a Phillips head screw, our shutter blades can be loosened or tightened instantly.
You can relax
Knowing that Elite Shutters offers only the highest quality custom shutters, we back them with a Lifetime Warranty, allowing you, our customer, completely worry-free ownership. This Lifetime Warranty guarantees the craftsmanship, materials, and painted finish of our interior custom shutters to the original purchaser for as long as they reside in that house. Proof of purchase is required. For more information regarding the Elite Lifetime Warranty, please contact our showroom or refer to your custom shutter contract. Remember, your Elite custom shutters are an investment built to last a lifetime.
Awards & Certificates
Best of Houzz 2014 – 2019 – Customer Service. We were rated at the highest level for customer service by the Houzz community for six years running, 2014, 2015, 2016, 2017, 2018 & 2019.
Follow Us 
