Tilt rods were the sole option for slat control for many years when louvred shutters burst onto the window dressing scene and took over in popularity from traditional solid wood favourites. Multiple style options and choices of tilt control options quickly became available in panels; centred, offset to one side, or hidden behind the slats. But these additional variations were only the beginning of slat control transformations. Since then, innovation has continued to be pivotal in shutter design.
In line with interior trends and homeowner’s preferences, this continuation of creativity in shutter design recently brought the exceptionally popular newest tilt control… ‘without a tilt rod’.
When without a tilt rod is selected, slats are able to move in unison thanks to a cog mechanism which is built inside of panels and sections are manoeuvred by simply pushing a single slat in that area. This smart design technology has taken off in popularity since its introduction and many homeowners now favour the clean and sleek look that combines fantastically with modern interiors.
With the increase in popularity, one of the key features that comes into focus on shutter design is tilt control and considerations of how this will affect the overall shutter aesthetic.
In the absence of tilt rods, the design of shutters is opened up to easily accommodate the appearance of optional extras such as divider rails which with a tilt rod runs the risk of looking a little busy.
All these things combined have seen without a tilt rod continue to rise in popularity and many of our clients now choose this as their preferred option which begs the ultimate question – are tilt rods a thing of the past?
Well, the short answer is no, tilt rods are very much alive and kicking. The many changes in shutter designs and choices available to homeowners haven’t made any traditional options completely redundant, only reduce in popularity.
For those who choose a tilt rod for their shutters, the centred option is often the favoured choice with offset locations rarely chosen. ‘Hidden tilt rods’ behind slats are no longer offered as an effective choice for shutters.
If a simplistic design is preferred for a shutter, this is where without tilt rod designs truly shine through. This simplistic design is often best achieved in style choices such as full height shutters with no hidden breaks or divider rails, or a café style shutter extending part way up the window. However, for those who have a liking for more classical shutter design options, adding a tilt rod is often favoured. .
Tilt rods are also a little more delicate than internal build mechanisms which is sometimes factored into decisions about which option to proceed with. In busy family homes where slats may be broken and require replacements, it is a very simple endeavour to swap the broken slat out for a new one in shutters with the internal mechanism, however this can be a little more complex in panels with a tilt rod and can require the whole panel to be swapped out.
When making your tilt choice, it really comes down to is what is most suitable for you and your home and the design choices you base your rooms around. Effectively, there is no right or wrong answer when it comes to the tilt control of your shutters, just whatever works best for you.
