Glare Reducing Shutters Let You See Out While Blocking Sun

Window shutters are an excellent way to control the light and ventilation entering a room. With adjustable louvers, shutters allow you to customize the amount of sunlight and fresh air coming in. One major benefit of shutters is their ability to reduce glare. Glare can cause eye strain and headaches, as well as damage furniture and furnishings over time. Shutters with adjustable slats block and diffract the sun’s rays to eliminate glare, while still allowing you to see outside.

What is Glare and Why Reduce It?

Glare refers to visually uncomfortable bright light entering a room. It happens when intense sunlight directly enters the home through windows and hits surfaces like floors, furniture, and walls. This reflected light can make it difficult to see clearly in the room. Glare causes squinting, eye fatigue, and headaches after prolonged exposure. It can even temporarily blind you when trying to look outside.

In addition to visual discomfort, glare also fades and damages indoor furnishings like upholstery and carpets. The UV rays that come with sunlight break down fibers and cause fading of colors over time. Shutters are an effective way to enjoy sunlight without the risks of glare.

Benefits of Controlling Glare with Shutters:

• Prevents eye strain and headaches from squinting at intense light
• Allows you to clearly see outside, unlike dark window shades
• Protects furnishings from damage caused by UV exposure
• Provides relief from sun sensitivity for those with medical conditions
• Saves energy by reducing air conditioner usage in summer

How Glare Reduction Shutters Work

Shutters tailored for glare control use adjustable slats to block and reflect sunlight. The slats can be tilted to control the amount and angle of incoming light. Specialized glare control shutters have slats made of materials that diffuse and redistribute sunlight. As sunlight passes between the slats, the diffused light scatters throughout the room instead of creating glare spots.

Shutters can be customized with:

• Tinted slats that filter specific light wavelengths
• Slats with light absorbing blackout surfaces
• Slats positioned at specific angles based on window location
• Directional permanent slats that block low afternoon sun
• Slats made of reflective materials like aluminum

This strategic louver positioning and material selection optimizes shutter effectiveness for glare and heat control.

Types of Shutters That Reduce Glare

Several shutter varieties are suitable for cutting glare:

Plantation Shutters: The tilt-rod allows adjustable control of slat angles to diffuse sunlight. The wood or faux wood slats can be painted white to maximize light reflection.

Vinyl Shutters: Durable PVC slats are colored throughout to prevent sun damage. Flexible vinyl shutters insulate against noise and weather.

Faux Wood Composite Shutters: With the look of real wood but added durability, composite shutters resist warping from moisture. The shutters can be painted custom colors.

Aluminum Shutters: Lightweight and rust-resistant, these shutters have excellent reflective properties to block glare. They come in durable finishes like powder coating.

Solar Powered Shutters: Integrated solar cells provide energy to automatically adjust slats based on sunlight intensity.

Fabric Shutters: Soft light-filtering fabrics reduce glare and are easy to clean. These elegant shutters add texture and color.

Tips for Controlling Glare with Shutters:

• Install shutters on all windows prone to glare, like west and south facing.
• Choose wide slats that offer better light obstruction when fully closed.
• Angle slats to direct sunlight up toward the ceiling instead of down.
• Layer sheer curtains behind shutters to further filter incoming light.
• Close lower shutters to block direct sun and open upper shutters for indirect light.
• Use tilt rods so slat angles can be adjusted any time for custom control.
• Add drapes or blackout shades behind shutters for nighttime darkness.
• Keep slats closed in rooms not being used to prevent light damage.
• Paint the window wall a dark color to reduce secondary glare reflection.

Maximize the Benefits with Proper Installation

To function at full effectiveness, shutters must be properly sized and installed for each window. Consulting with a professional to measure and mount your shutters ensures ideal performance. The installer will consider the window’s size, location, purpose, and lighting conditions to provide recommendations.

They will determine the optimal slat size, tilt rod placement, closure mechanisms, and hardware. Shutters can be customized to match the exact window dimensions for a flush fit that fully blocks light leakage. With professional guidance, you’ll get a shutter system tailored to overcome glare in your unique space.

Give Your Eyes a Break with Glare Control Shutters

Dealing with intense sunlight glaring through your windows can be an annoying and even painful experience. Rather than close off the outside view entirely with solid window coverings, shutters allow you to control light and ventilation while maintaining your connection to the outdoors. Advanced glare reducing shutter systems protect your vision health while preventing light damage throughout your home. If glare has been an issue in your home, consult a shutter expert to find the right solution for finally conquering bothersome reflections. Your eyes and furnishings will thank you!